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By VICtOrIa HEad F rom its gorgeous pink sand beaches, breathtaking jewel-toned seas, var- ied and unique islands and friend- ly people, The Islands of The Bahamas are some of the most pleasant and pic- turesque locations in the world. Anita Johnson-Patty, general manager of Communications, USA for The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, has had the distinct pleasure of selling the allure of these beautiful islands for the past 23 years. A native of Nassau, Bahamas, but currently based at The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism's (BMOT) Plantation, Florida office, Johnson-Patty is thrilled that her job often calls upon her to spend time in the Bahamas. Whether in the Bahamas to meet with the members of the Bahamas head office team, to orchestrate one of their planned major events or just being able to spend time with her family members that still reside there, Johnson-Patty passionately proclaims, "The Islands of the Bahamas are some of the most beautiful country in the world and one of my favorite places to be." "My job is great fun," says Johnson-Patty. "There's never a dull moment, the islands are a great brand and they're easy to sell." Directly responsible for communi- cations for both the general and the African-American consumer market, Johnson-Patty's portfolio includes orchestrating strategic partnerships and sponsorships on behalf of the BMOT. Once these connections are made, they translate into increased tourism for the Bahamas and cause their name to resonate. "In my business, it's very important to always be as creative and innovative as possible; constantly thinking of new ways to bring new events and business to the Islands," reports Johnson-Patty. "We've had the opportunity to form some great partnerships with various brands, such as working with Ebony Magazine on their Pre-Oscar ANITA JOHNSON-PATTY ANITA JOHNSON-PATTY SELLING THE BAHAMAS WITH GUSTO party and being a sponsor at the Trumpet Awards in Atlanta and Las Vegas, treating the guests to a fantastic Bahamian reception." Johnson-Patty's job also entails media relations. She works with top tier media outlets like The Washington Post, L magazine, Shape Magazine, Black Meetings & Tourism, Bridal Magazine and Modern Bride. These rela- tionships promote ads, editorial and various visiting jour- nalist programs where journalists are invited to the Islands and specialized staff take them on guided tours to obtain their stories. Some of these visiting journalist pro- grams have included trips such as Learn to Cook in the Bahamas, Diving in the Bahamas, Single Women's Getaways and Trips for families with kids. One of this year's great accomplish- ments for The BMOT occurred this past August. Bahamian islanders and vacationers got a treat as dozens of the world's most beautiful and accom- plished young women arrived in The Bahamas for the 58th Annual Miss Universe Competition at Atlantis, Paradise Island Resort. This brought international media coverage to the region as the contestants island hopped between Nassau/Paradise Island, Harbor Island, Bimini, Exuma, Abaco and Grand Bahama Island. Johnson-Patty explains, "This event will be great for tourism as these con- testants will bring their families, friends and entourages who will get to enjoy Bahamian cuisine, the people, the culture and the beauty of the Bahamas. Some may swim with the dolphins or take a powerboat to Exuma. Hopefully wonderful stories will be told and written as a result of this event." Johnson-Patty is also excited about a new promotion being introduced this year called Club Grand Bahama – The World's First All-Inclusive Island Destination. The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism has teamed up with the Grand Bahama Island Tourism Board to unveil Club Grand Bahama – a flexible, affordable travel experience that has redefined the "all-inclusive" vacation. Travelers can choose from five resorts, as well as eat and play for one set price. The package includes 50 sports and recre- ational activities from golf to scuba diving to fishing and adventure experiences. Rates start at $88 per night for Silver, $141 per night for Gold and $180 per night for Platinum. To learn more about Club Grand Bahama, or the beautiful Islands of the Bahamas, Johnson-Patty is available to assist. Email: ajohnson@bahamas.com, Phone: (954) 236-9292 Black Meetings & Tourism December 2009: www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 30