ST LUCIA Tourist Board officials forecast a continued upward trend for the year, due to new and continued marketing campaigns.
On the heels of a record-breaking 2014, visitor arrivals to St Lucia have increased by 14 per cent in the first month of 2015.
More than 31 500 visitors entered St Lucia, the largest number the island has received during the month of January, and a sizable advance from the previous record of 28 220 arrivals in January 2005.
The United States and Canada, St Lucia’s key source markets, contributed the largest share of growth in January with increases of 32 per cent and 24 per cent, respectively. Airlift to St Lucia has grown overall by 11 per cent with the US market accountable for a 38 per cent rise in seats and Canada showing a 44 per cent increase.
“Certainly, the robust marketing campaigns and targeted promotional activities by the St Lucia Tourist Board have contributed to growing awareness of the island and the surge in arrivals,” said Tourism Director Louis Lewis. “The forecast for the year points to a continued upward trend, especially with the recent launch of two new campaigns: St Lucia Rocks This Summer and Se San Nou to reach the Diaspora market.”
St Lucia Rocks This Summer features free nights and savings of up to 55 per cent off room rates. On-island tour operators are offering discounts on a range of activities throughout the island, from cruising through the rain forest on zip lines to exploring colourful coral reefs. There are also special incentives for travel agents to earn free stays.
Meaning “ours” in Creole, Se San Nou is a dedicated marketing initiative to reach the island’s Diaspora in North America and the United Kingdom. The programme is designed to strengthen ties with the Diaspora community as a knowledgeable and valuable resource to showcase the island as a choice vacation destination.
Additional 2015 initiatives include St Lucia Carnival celebrated in the months of June and July, Chocolate Heritage Month in August, the annual Love Elevated: St Lucia Wedding Symposium in September and Health and Wellness month in November. (PR)
