Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands (17 April 2015) Visitors to the Cayman Islands engage in a variety of activities whilst on vacation by sampling local culture and buying keepsakes that are unique to the destination. This is a daily opportunity to shine the spotlight on vendors who provide authentic Cayman Islands goods. These mementos create delightful moments when the visitor finds a treasured souvenir and makes for a lasting connection with the Cayman Islands. Creating exceptional relationships and lasting memories with our guests is the approach that is taken by the Cayman Islands cottage industry offering the unique “Made in Cayman Islands” brand which ultimately enhances the visitor experience. The Cayman Islands Department of Tourism is continually seeking ways to provide a quality Caymankind experience for visitors, by promoting items that embody the soul and culture of these islands.

In order to highlight the range and quality of goods made locally by talented artisans, the department hosted the first round of vendor presentations that enabled qualified businesses to pitch their locally made wares for consideration to support the marketing and promotions activity of the Cayman Islands Department of Tourism.

Minister of Tourism, the Hon Moses Kirkconnell, applauds the efforts of the department to focus on partnerships with local entrepreneurs who provide authentic items that showcase Caymanian culture and celebrate the people of the Cayman Islands. “The arts and crafts skills of our forefathers are handed down from generations and that complex knowledge is acquired only after long periods of apprenticeship, oftentimes by sitting with one’s elders in the kitchen or on the front porch to get the hands on secrets of the trade. The products that come from this are often some of the most beloved treasures of the country, whether it’s an elaborate piece of Caymanite, treasured thatch creations that is handed down in a family or that secret family recipe for mango jam that amazes at every family gathering. The efforts of the Department of Tourism to incorporate these local goods into their inventory reinforce our commitment to shining the light on all things local.”

To date, the department has met with ten (10) local businesses in the first round of presentations held in early March 2015; however qualified vendors are encouraged to submit their information to DOT for inclusion in future presentations.

“It was a great opportunity for our team to meet with the first group as we learned of some products that we hadn’t heard of before. It was also beneficial for vendors to learn about the way in which DOT supports the unique small businesses within our community,” shared Director of Tourism, Mrs. Rosa Harris. “The outreach and information exchange is beneficial in showing our true Caymanian arts and culture. DOT will continue to promote these businesses as we know visitors consider shopping a top activity during their vacations in the Cayman Islands. DOT supports our local craftsmen, cooks, and artisans and applauds their efforts to share authentic items with our visitors.”

For businesses interested in presenting locally made goods to the Department of Tourism during future information sessions, proprietors should email [email protected] or call 949-0623.

The deadline is the 23rd of April.

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