Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/52019
SENATOR ALLEN CHASTANET: TOURISM MUST BENEFIT ALL Joining nations across the globe celebrating World Tourism Day on Tuesday, September 27, Saint Lucia's Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation, Senator Allen Chastanet reminded tourism stake- holders across the country of the huge responsibility they have ensuring tourismcontinues to deliv- er benefits "not just to shareholders in boardrooms but to the average man and woman in the street." "We cannot rest on our laurels," asserted Senator Chastanet. Even though Saint Lucia's tourism industry has demonstrated tremendous resilience in tough times, "as a nation we must move to another level of accountability and growth." SenatorChastanet said SaintLucian hoteliers and industry captains must continue to work hard and with passion: "We have a nation depending on us,and as ourGovernmentworks tirelessly to improve infrastructure, like building roads, improving airports and seaports, and maintaining airlift from majormarkets,we need all hands on deck to create new eco- nomic opportunities and improve the quality of life for all Saint Lucians. Our Creole culture,warmand friendly people, sumptuous cuisine and a beautiful natural environment, including the Pitonsmountains, are natural blessings – but we must continue to refresh and revive the visitor experience," he declared. Senator Chastanet also spoke of the new Village Tourism concept designed to accentuate local culture, provide jobs and benefit communities such as Dennery, Soufrière, Gros Islet andAnse LaRaye. "Wemust improve the village life of our island because it is the people of Saint Lucia who make this nation an incredible place to visit – and to live." World Tourism Day 2011 was held under the theme Tourism – Linking Cultures. This year's theme was a cele- bration of tourism's role in linking together the cultures of the world through travel.With millions of people traveling the world each year, never before have so many people been to so many places, nor been so exposed to other cultures. This interaction between individuals and communities, and their diverse cultures, leads to tolerance, respect and mutual understanding – the building blocks for a more peaceful world. "World Tourism Day is an opportunity to reflect on the importance of tourism to global well-being," noted United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon. "As we travel, let us engage with other cultures and celebrate human diversity. On this observance, let us recognize tourism as a force for a more tolerant, open and united world," he added. NEWATTRACTIONS ON ST. JOHN Discovery Undersea Reef Tours St. John's newest attraction is a 125-passenger glass bot- tom boat. Departing from Cruz Bay, St. John or Redhook, St.Thomas, Discovery Undersea Reef Tours allows passen- gers to explore the underwater world in air-conditioned comfort from its bottom level through 20 picture windows. The middle and upper level house a bar, seating and cap- tain's deck where visitors can enjoy picturesque views of St. Thomas and St. John. Available for groups, weddings and special events. For more information go to www.global- marinellc.wee-bly.com. 28 USVIWELCOMES New "Accessible Trails" in the Virgin Islands National Park, St. John The accessible trails at Francis Bay and Cinnamon Bay are now completed. These trails allow visitors in wheel- chairs, families with young children and strollers and other people who are less "sure of foot" to enjoy the natural beauty and exotic fauna of the VI National Park. The Cinnamon Bay Trail opposite the entrance to the park is now wheelchair-accessible with a 610-ft. ramp that winds thru the Cinnamon Bay Factory Ruins.The wide path com- bines concrete walkways with raised wood boardwalks. It also uses toe rails and grooved handrails to ensure that vis- itors are safe and comfortable. Black Meetings & Tourism November/December 2011: www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com