From Gov.tc

A team from the Ministry of Tourism, Environment, Heritage, Maritime and Gaming led by Minister Ralph Higgs returned to the TCI last weekend after attending the annual Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) Caribbean Week’s activities in New York on 4th -8th June 2018. The delegation consisted of Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Cherylann Jones, Director of Tourism, Mr. Ramon Andrews, Chairman of the Tourist Board, Mr. Norman Hamilton, Head of Secretariat Mrs. Mellisa Ariza and Receptionist Mrs. Brenda Jones.

This annual event is hosted by the CTO and provides the opportunity for member countries to showcase the authenticity of their destination, through food, music and many other cultural expressions. This year’s theme was keeping in line with the 2018 year of Wellness and Rejuvenation in the Caribbean.

The theme was incorporated into many aspects of the events including a trade show and educational forum on how to sell the Caribbean as a wellness destination. The Caribbean Marketing Conference comprised of formal presentations by leading speakers in the industry, topics ranged from how lucrative is the wellness market, the rejuvenation of the Caribbean Brand amongst others.

Minister of Tourism, Hon. Ralph Higgs stated; “It is always rewarding to participate in the CTO’s Caribbean week activities, it is the ideal platform for the Ministry to secure and maintain linkages with key partners. Similarly, it is critical as region leaders in Tourism to be able to connect in this way, to discuss trending issues, successes and challenges faced and to share best practices with our counterparts.”

The team took in several sessions, including performances by local chefs in the highly anticipated Rum & Rhythm event where persons enjoyed authentic Caribbean entertainment and cuisine provided by the region’s best. The event is held in support of a scholarship program for Caribbean nationals pursuing studies in tourism, hospitality and language training. Interested persons may visit the official website of the CTO for details on scholarship opportunities at www.OneCaribbean.org.

SOURCE: https://www.gov.tc/pressoffice/1221-minister-of-tourism-participates-in-cto-caribbean-week