Embracing all things Vincy: Vincy Love, Vincy Flavour, Vincy Food

21.NOV.08

As we celebrate tourism week, we are cognizant of the challenges faced by the tourism industry, issues such as, but not limited to, the cost of fuel which is impacting negatively on airline operational cost; reduction in routes by airlines and cruise lines, thus limiting accessibility to certain destinations; the economic downturn in major source markets which is negatively impacting visitor arrivals to some destinations and the impact of climate change on the movement of people.{{more}} Tourism Planners and other professionals must adopt a more pro-active and creative approach to the way things are done in this dynamic industry.

While the task of being creative must be led by those responsible for the development of tourism in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, the involvement of the general public and more so communities that are home to our many sites and attractions is integral to the advancement of St. Vincent and the Grenadines’ tourism product. The tourism industry is important to us, in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, we therefore encourage our nationals to embrace all things vincy: vincy love, vincy flavour, vincy food, these we must showcase to our visitors.

As most countries struggle to deal with the issue of rising food prices, we are in a position to produce more local foods by utilizing available agricultural lands. For private consumption, we encourage back yard gardening. In this way, we are seeking to ensure food security not only for ourselves, but also for visitors to our shores. Opportunities would be provided for our farmers, fisher folks and other cottage industry providers, our hoteliers would have the opportunity to showcase the local foods of St. Vincent and the Grenadines to their guests – Vincy flavours, vincy food.

From a cultural perspective, the culture of St. Vincent and the Grenadines has always been in the forefront however at this time when we are advancing the theme, “Embracing All Things Vincy”, let us not just showcase Carnival; Easter Regatta; Nine Mornings and Christmas “lighting up”, but rather let us find ways of packaging and promoting the “light up” activities that take place in the various communities of St. Vincent and the Grenadines in early November as we remember our departed love ones.

A concerted effort should be made to encourage communities to revive the traditional house to house Christmas caroling that we are accustomed to; this could be an activity not just for us locals to enjoy, but also an experience for our visitors that can create lasting memories.

As the National Parks Authority and the Ministry of Tourism pursue the path of developing/upgrading sites and attractions throughout St. Vincent and the Grenadines, let us take pride in upholding and protecting the work done, users of these facilities must ensure the proper use of these amenities.

Finally, the issue of cleanliness and national pride is one that cannot be over emphasized. Kingstown, our capital is seen by almost all visitors to St. Vincent and the Grenadines, are we happy and proud of Kingstown as it is? Attempts have been made over the years to “clean up” Kingstown, and within recent times we have seen such efforts being put forward again. It is the duty of all Vincentians to support efforts to “clean up” and re-organise our city in an orderly manner. Kingstown should be a place that we are proud of with its many arches and cobblestone streets, let us Embrace all things Vincy.