We Live in a Visual World

Source: Barbados Business Enterprise Corp. (BBEC)

Contact: Bevan Springer, Marketplace Excellence  + 1 201 861-2056  + 1 201 861-2056 bevanspringer@nj.rr.com

DON’T SLASH BUDGETS, WARNS CARIBBEAN MARKETER

General Manager of Bay Gardens Hotel, Waltrude Patrick (second from right) welcomes the BBEC team to St. Lucia at last week’s Caribbean Media Exchange on Sustainable Tourism (CMEx). From left: Jeremy Stephen, Dr. Basil Springer and Marita Greenidge.

Photo credit: Margot Jordan

Photograph available here: http://docs.google.com/View?id=dgsbbfz_1525dtpsgfd3

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (December 13, 2009) - Young Barbadian marketing consultant Marita Greenidge is warning companies not to slash their marketing budgets in today’s recessionary environment. She advises that such times are when businesses should become more strategic about how marketing dollars are spent.

The 26 year-old Greenidge, a founder of the Barbados-based marketing consulting firm Crimson-Jade Consulting, is part of the executive management team and marketing advisor to the Barbados Business Enterprise Corp. (BBEC) which manages the new Barbados Entrepreneurs’ Venture Capital Fund.

“Marketing gets customers in the door so slashing budgets randomly without careful thought and analysis is not prudent. You have to ensure that the money spent creates value for the enterprise - and that means re-evaluating marketing strategies to determine what gives the biggest bang for precious marketing bucks,” says Greenidge, who holds an MBA in Marketing & Entrepreneurship from Simon Graduate School of Business, University of Rochester in New York.

Greenidge, who was in St. Lucia last week attending the 18^th Caribbean Media Exchange on Sustainable Tourism (CMEx), lamented that too often companies fail to integrate their marketing strategies with company objectives, leading to a waste of resources.

“That’s why it often seems so easy to cut the money being spent on marketing,” she said, encouraging companies to spend more time instead developing marketing plans clearly targeted at company goals. “We need to understand who our customers are, what price and product benefits are most appealing to them and which marketing channels and distribution methods are most appropriate for each group. Doing this helps develop more targeted marketing strategies, trimming away the fat and creating a leaner marketing charge that can withstand the pressures of any economic downturn,” she said.

At the recent launch of the Barbados Entrepreneurs’ Venture Capital Fund, Barbados Prime Minister David Thompson announced a government guarantee on any principal amount invested in the fund. BBEC is actively engaged in seeking private sector investment - local, regional and international - now that this government guarantee has been announced.

The Venture Capital Fund promises to quickly respond to the investment needs of entrepreneurs whose ideas have the “DNA of an elephant”. Almost 40 local businesses are expected to benefit from the fund over the next year.

For further information, visit www.bimventures.com. 

About Barbados Business Enterprise Corp.
Barbados Business Enterprise Corp. (BBEC) is a public/private sector partnership with the Caribbean Business Enterprise Trust (CBET) Inc. BBEC manages the Barbados Revolving Seed Capital Fund and the Barbados Entrepreneurs’ Venture Capital Fund. BBEC is a virtual organisation that focuses on promoting economic development in Barbados. The trustees of BBEC are respected Barbadian business and development experts, Sir Neville Nicholls (Chairman), Sir Stephen Emtage, Peter Boos and Hazel Highland.

Winter Holiday News 2009-2010
November 16, 2009 — Wanderlusts who are yearning to get away during the upcoming
holidays should look no further and book a trip to one of the many sun or ski destinations
below to ring in the festive season. With special holiday deals and offerings from
Saint Lucia to Switzerland to Jackson Hole and Salt Lake City, travelers have enough
reasons to get away this winter and create lasting memories with family and loved
ones into the New Year.
Saint Lucia

* Cap Maison [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn1JZRbWM0A9_UUp3WVem9LhK-oLBi0HtvuUrnTK1-wRx5T68E4izMcycckROEEpYahkQflzkHYIhYHdryJIcCadHK1e7raUTs_uWjyreqlWWQ==]
is offering festive Christmas and New Year’s Eve prix fixe menus at Cliff  [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn0lOmSsMeKJq-6ktJFNy8ni7tl5Ylk4dLBdh7CxpWShMdNt8L-FlPMIMazxniDpQncf0Jg-pxVzPMAjjbET8BXL-qtnprf1DjHVmPgEaGIFwA==]Cliff
at Cap [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn0lOmSsMeKJq-6ktJFNy8ni7tl5Ylk4dLBdh7CxpWShMdNt8L-FlPMIMazxniDpQncf0Jg-pxVzPMAjjbET8BXL-qtnprf1DjHVmPgEaGIFwA==]at
Cap, the resort’s signature restaurant featuring breathtaking panoramic views of
 the Caribbean Sea. Both available at $135, the Christmas and New Year’s Eve menus
feature an elegant 8-course French West-Indian meal with classic staple dishes including
braised short rib of beef and slow-roasted turkey with herb and onion stuffing,
while giving a St. Lucian twist with its rich pudding dessert topped with island
 rum anglaise. Holiday rates (from December 20, 2009 to January 2, 2010) start at
$565 in a Gardenview Room. Rates are based on double occupancy, per room per night
and include full breakfast. www.capmaison.com [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn1JZRbWM0A9_UUp3WVem9LhK-oLBi0HtvuUrnTK1-wRx5T68E4izMcycckROEEpYahkQflzkHYIhYHdryJIcCadHK1e7raUTs_uWjyreqlWWQ==]

* East Winds Inn [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn2RAEyqZ3aYlTd2KpodQ989DGpERxrtxYF02_FdAg9xap0os3DfunV7gAci6eW-Nh7RMlx4zM516d_J5clRByXfK2CNfqkw3NqeAmeytCI4-g==]
is offering guests who stay a minimum of seven nights, a free stay on EW Deluxe
[http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn1w1dps0o-zPbK8W17Zn3NHEUwbA5TzvrZh2b5YtRYMe9wNdh8iqmtZn5QkMNJbJJk_QW42cLV8_gPy4-Xii549swXyAQ7wBvGOSRLNWS2vyg==]Christmas
Day on an all-inclusive basis (7 nights for the price of 6). This is valid for all
new bookings and for arrivals at the hotel between December 19 and 24, 2009. Nestled
between Castries and Rodney Bay on the northwest side of Saint Lucia, East Winds
 is an all-inclusive resort located on the waterfront of LaBrelotte Bay, one of
the most pristine, golden sand beaches on the island. The resort recently debuted
a new Open-Air 3,000 square foot Yoga and Fitness Pavilion this winter. All-inclusive
rates are based per room, per night and start at $950 in a Superior Double (from
 December 21, 2009 to January 3, 2010), and include all meals, wine, bottomless
flutes of champagne and beach activities. www.eastwinds.com [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn2RAEyqZ3aYlTd2KpodQ989DGpERxrtxYF02_FdAg9xap0os3DfunV7gAci6eW-Nh7RMlx4zM516d_J5clRByXfK2CNfqkw3NqeAmeytCI4-g==]

* Ladera  [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn3gyvq8rvnlI1xZAH3Pu_kqQo-L-emuNnUgYIX-IzveZPCXiiur2MciMqtePZjPifRY8QSxSpaGIixAhMFFIi_PqmjfjZW6HqU=]is
offering a Christmas and New Year’s Eve Program this year, Dasheene [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn3JTbc-lw1a99bZq0vKQ9brV7bWR9XTJ4fDKpUnvP0doaJTr8twEdtZINQK3FMPOarlTLCHAgoDBL1jm0pyVigeHg-nHXlmHgDfA9v3Jg4USA==]complete
with a classic Christmas Dinner at the acclaimed Dasheene Restaurant, evening entertainment
performances including local carolers and live bands, the option to attend Christmas
Day Mass at Fond St. Jacques Catholic Church, a cocktail reception with General
Manager Waddy Francis, and festive libations and meals at one of the Caribbean’s
 best restaurants. There’s also a New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner available at $135 per
person where revelers can enjoy a live band, dancers, party favors and celebratory
midnight countdown to ring in the New Year. Reservations are required in advance
 for the New Years Eve Gala. Dress code is smart casual. Holiday winter rates begin
at $680 in a Petit Piton Suite with a plunge pool (from December 21, 2009 to January
4, 2010). Rates include breakfast, afternoon tea, and full use of resort facilities
including warm volcanic mineral water bath, gym, beach shuttles, snorkeling equipment
and WiFi access throughout the resort. www.ladera.com [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn3gyvq8rvnlI1xZAH3Pu_kqQo-L-emuNnUgYIX-IzveZPCXiiur2MciMqtePZjPifRY8QSxSpaGIixAhMFFIi_PqmjfjZW6HqU=]
Virgin Gorda

* Aquamare  [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn25LZ_FI-hts2w3gj682yfPbSeC3VJ9WTv-0HypvgddrXJekAVNEyHuC-SDxawsl82Y0i7K8vjhKalb-Z1UPvswxxx8vzdUJ8dp8BLdXcwzPw==]offers
the setting for the perfect family beach holiday vacation. Now is the AQ Living
Rm [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn3N-Mf8NHB01ltFoKW_crLwusPezKx5-LBY_l747OKI2ONFH5NkolC-hz7K5uijAjZlaArvud2gkYUJMTDGhuvrUgWJ7VXtgGSfv7Te_7SVmg==]time
to think about the holidays in 2010, since the 2009 holiday season is already booked
due to high demand. From the clear, calm, shallow waters that are made for young
 swimmers to its safe and sandy beach just steps that’s perfect for sand castles,
the three villas that overlook the Sir Francis Drake Channel offer comfort, adventure
and luxury. With 8,000 square feet of private living space, five guest rooms, including
three Master Suites each with its own expansive marble bath area, the villas are
 purposely built for large, multi-generational gatherings and comfortably sleep
up to 12 guests. www.villaaquamare.com [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn25LZ_FI-hts2w3gj682yfPbSeC3VJ9WTv-0HypvgddrXJekAVNEyHuC-SDxawsl82Y0i7K8vjhKalb-Z1UPvswxxx8vzdUJ8dp8BLdXcwzPw==]
Switzerland

* Lake Geneva Region of Switzerland [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn246HoDWo0cmvteh9AR13vZQNUXysUOtpM2WYz-tNRL-6tLhvrT1br_uF9Kdt8BgaZETaG0-nhXhIsUEnvLyk1C8L_ZnVSqklYKvUXPzxZpuw3-543rNKuHpqNcqAIurq0=],
located on the shore of Lac Léman (Lake Montreux Xmas [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn33zC7D-a40lkIGHq_bK8tiD3UeaV_ypCuk89ro3EHcOEfQkbpsu5EUH6E3-qfZ11lLDQzuTaFGO3sWHU9Z8T-icS_v407TIgUN_yb-d-wfJA==]Geneva)
in the French-speaking part of Western Switzerland, will feature their annual Christmas
Markets in Montreux and Lausanne from November 25 to December 24, 2009. Both cities
will be transformed into an enchanting holiday fair with over 100 richly decorated
stands resembling small chalets. In addition to the wide selection of holiday crafts
and gifts, the Markets feature classic Swiss cuisine, including roasted chestnuts
and light white wines from the Lavaux vineyards, a UNESCO World Heritage site. www.montreux-vevey.com
[http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn0ShU6zTgSktDFHPD9GYulCNJIztPMm78GWQns9YZ9r4-3SJNhrPRqfrvhd-kB8ILx4eB_ZCrPmBBV0TGhrmwLVtALZwz7XcSJhjQ1iOM6SAg==]
Jackson Hole, Wyoming

* Hotel Terra [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn0zxPnh0Q8A7UZOdWH41pffvAL56xFZSkRPasNPfUsHjzfQatGz8JeBxnoEJ0bhvlALcnhyQz_TWRu16BrW1TG5XxD2ABaOgqmUG6XlcqsQozSTtwTZQvHn],
Jackson Hole’s AAA Four-Diamond LEED Certified hotel, is offering a Ski & Stay Free
Special [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn3tZs5UT_ahBXnKeibD1wvCHIoXIe5Q0gGtvKm_6mRZtiAGvs2Sfcx0MoKri9rQgONUdKuZoeYIJMMz0RoVRO0xT5E3L–TBGPFzFutLZdL55GEppOC3_34xd2PS3o4FynIp0F3jnilwpnP0f3VY7uku8FqPJRcZghX2_MYtCJG3g==]
for the holiday season. Available at only $99 per person, per night, the offer provides
a complimentary lift ticket and a stay at Hotel Terra. There is a four night minimum
stay. Full, non-refundable pre-payment is required. Hotel Terra opened in February
2008, landing a spot on Condé Nast Traveler’s “Hot List” and Travel + Leisure’s
“It List” shortly thereafter. The hotel was also named one of the Top Ten Eco-Hotels
by TripAdvisor’s customer reviews. Located slope side to the Jackson Hole Mountain
Resort, just a mile from Grand Teton National Park and just an hour from Yellowstone,
Hotel Terra is ideally situated to bring something new to the luxury mountain lodge
category. Holiday winter rates start at $289 at double occupancy, depending on dates.
www.hotelterrajacksonhole.com [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn1vuw_uQqcI6ssMtj0v81k4BAKjVffjzda3ER8KX53MCXFwzxyPGjDiXDwW8NG7xM1S9Y4_OkG0d7LP6c4dWP31i9ztK5v5ZUKKwXZ9WaCsl9P5F7_WcBZj]

* Teton Mountain Lodge [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn38kCwrk4Ylgh9rek-9u3P-J3Rbk3sz5FqVRQF7mEE5hHGR8x-f96r7M2gejl8cGuzymlpo9t7TKOV3gOT8tzkBOSMrW3DLlQ-Wkmy37yJk4w==],
Jackson Hole’s AAA Four-Diamond hotel located at the TML Winter [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn3AJ00exxHuUrvMHsWlOfWpKyYMy9NoTCaxailyxwVrIH7CW7s8qINjCCfrGDCSureZp03t1xDQxWMV1whep7uZWvo11n8PoYPni198m2bPgA==]entrance
to Grand Teton National Park, is offering a Ski & Stay Free Special [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn0GHheECJveUJ09NeIPNkMNFexuMkl_u2v4gykqY5NSNhiZLZfJNLvtK-GwK4mFWndlp3uTO6Ean6l07Nl719xw1I5kZKv6lw5YPnPtfvIoqUhIkBh6WKThyBGxwwcJIUfO4i1ZI2TKyp54EfB_5Wz-]
for the holiday season. Available at only $99 per person, per night, the offer provides
a complimentary lift ticket and a stay at Teton Mountain Lodge. Couples or families
can capture the true spirit of the festive holidays with the luxury lodge, located
only steps from legendary Jackson Hole skiing. There is a four night minimum stay.
Full, non-refundable pre-payment is required. Holiday winter rates start at $289
 at double occupancy, depending on dates. www.tetonlodge.com [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn38kCwrk4Ylgh9rek-9u3P-J3Rbk3sz5FqVRQF7mEE5hHGR8x-f96r7M2gejl8cGuzymlpo9t7TKOV3gOT8tzkBOSMrW3DLlQ-Wkmy37yJk4w==]
Salt Lake City

* Salt Lake City [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn1G_i16EGoOW8aFInC1h6mpqzGHWzgyo9KsePmLJi_0wC3pm5Xl4EaM-vcNEUxbrG4eE58wyGOEDOOS69qbA7OZRFbVdbr3Z5yHJ5P77gNpyQ==]will
host the 16th Annual New Year’s EVE [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn2LvNsOhvJmhnZFQJ7G87hS8f8TUVEhQJlc0rqcoCq7eRZQSXLaROqXakgCVKdy6Lb0VbMWmKZ3h0W47gFJw6-2rz1tgQYeDNbNzckg2IP_-Q==]celebration
from December Ice skating [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn38X7uUTCjCYNhPxhTM1SKh4py6KZsHdtHnuDoysPvNexi6Rh8fRh_scu5XnT73zSUHhJxT7S6uBGroepqankYP4a5TM4qE2WN06B_XRzP5p4ivZgZegU68]29
to 31, 2009. Presented by the Downtown Alliance
and hosted in venues throughout downtown Salt
Lake City, tens of thousands of visitors and locals
will gather for EVE, an indoor/outdoor urban extravaganza, complete with live
entertainment and performing arts, winter sports, activities for kids and
families and a festive midnight fireworks show. Over half of Utah’s out-of-state
 visitors opt for staying in Salt Lake, and with good reason. Located just 30 minutes
from SLC International Airport with over 750 daily flights from most major domestic
gateways, the downtown area provides guests with the best of all worlds. Using Salt
Lake as their “base camp,” visitors are less than an hour drive from 11 of Utah’s
14 world-class ski resorts. www.eveslc.com [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102825395981&s=8349&e=001vDD7XRlqsn2LvNsOhvJmhnZFQJ7G87hS8f8TUVEhQJlc0rqcoCq7eRZQSXLaROqXakgCVKdy6Lb0VbMWmKZ3h0W47gFJw6-2rz1tgQYeDNbNzckg2IP_-Q==]

This month’s issue of National Geographic Adventure Magazine is out and
Montserrat is included as one of the 25 Best New Trips for 2010. 
 
See web link below to the email version of the story
 
<http://adventure.nationalgeographic.com/2009/11/best-new-trips-2010/trips-t
ext/19>
http://adventure.nationalgeographic.com/2009/11/best-new-trips-2010/trips-te
xt/19     
 
To view a scanned copy from the actual magazine go to:
http://www.facebook.com/islandofmontserrat?ref=ts#/photo.php?pid=3883216
<http://www.facebook.com/islandofmontserrat?ref=ts#/photo.php?pid=3883216&id
=92877280361> &id=92877280361
 
Note that Montserrat is the only Caribbean island named.

MEDIA MAVENS CMEx BOUND IN SAINT LUCIA
CASTRIES, SAINT LUCIA (October 13, 2009) - Media mavens and communications
connoisseurs, most of them women, are planning to converge on Saint Lucia to
discuss climate change and tourism outreach to multicultural communities in
December.
Several top communications specialists from the Caribbean, North America and
Europe are offering messages of hope and encouragement as tourism rebounds from
the global recession in time for the 18thCaribbean Media Exchange
on Sustainable Tourism (CMEx) slated for Saint Lucia from December 3 to 7,
2009.
Organizers of the meeting - which attracts travel, tourism, media and government
leaders, along with development specialists and the youth - have announced
respected public relations counsel and New York University Professor Gail
Moaney of Ruder Finn leads an impressive line-up of top class communicators.
Included are author and motivational speaker Karen Taylor Bass; former CNN vice
president and Environmental Editor Barbara Pyle; Image consultant Patrice
DaCosta; Lisa-Ann Joseph of Reputation Management Caribbean; social media
strategist Pam Perry; Puerto Rican PR professional Nelly Cruz as well as
award-winning television executive producer Nancy Gilligan of New York’s Barefoot
Agency.
“Our top communicators are hard-working professionals who just happen to
be women,” said CMEx Director Lelei LeLaulu, who noted the stellar line-up will
help CMEx delegates and tourism stakeholders sharpen their skills “as we go
inside the newsroom and public relations cubicles to share perspectives which
will ultimately propel Caribbean tourism forward.”
Joining the stellar female cast will be CNN Operations Manager Clayton Sizemore;
 Secretary General of the Caribbean Broadcasting Union Patrick Cozier;
and the Caribbean Tourism Organisation’s Johnson Johnrose who has been working
recently with both Caribbean reporters and
tourism executives to hone their communications craft.
“We have been overwhelmed by the response to CMEx over the past several weeks,”
said Dr. Basil Springer, who serves on the CMEx Board of Directors. “It looks
like we are in shape for an excellent meeting in December which has attracted
strong local, regional and international interest, including a youth
contingent,” Dr. Springer noted, adding that with less than two months to go,
the intimate networking exchange is approaching “full capacity”.
Also confirmed to address CMEx in December will be the island’s Minister of
Tourism and Civil Aviation Senator Allen Chastanet; McHale Andrew, executive
vice president of the Saint Lucia Hotel and Tourism Association; Enrique De
Marchena Kaluche, President of the Caribbean Hotel Association; Puerto Rico
tourism consultant Terestella González Denton; Fernando William, Chairman of
intra-regional commuter carrier WINAIR; Dr. Noel Brown, president of the
Friends of the United Nations; and Dr. Robin Andersen, Professor of
Environmental Studies at Fordham University.
The theme for the December meeting is “Multicultural Marketing: A Climate
for Change.” Underlying the provocative presentations and lively
discussion is how tourism can improve the health, wealth, education,
environment and culture of destinations in a “climate-friendly
fashion”, as delegates examine how to “climate proof” Caribbean
tourism as well as build resilience into a recessionary environment.
A draft agenda is being updated here:
http://www.caribbeanmediaexchange.com/Default.aspx?tabid=453 [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102761411394&s=10950&e=001hYd4VGC3LV-nvisICLvdQXi8DBrPAzRl8UgYW9ZiGV82F2lfoqXE8CqqlK5tLCD3vjK3E9vQqOjMUc3vmky5sAS0kNC01onIsKxkbMjBxybtEjLnGtSS7ak0uwgpygGDrXaPOUhwWzyEyUhygVh1JMrgl_FCJQlTL6BgEBYm84w=]
The General Delegate Registration Form is available from the following link:
http://docs.google.com/View?id=dgsbbfz_1146htt4tjdd [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?et=1102761411394&s=10950&e=001hYd4VGC3LV81pIlGVG8n5Jon_p2v_ByMP8BR-fDNVCD-gDAbcR-Q6Uz7z_ZxqP2sbVh9I7wyGXqeer6UkV44j05YEIipjHvpQq-NN0nvhAdiPkhUx5p92tEbgbXFmCKsIUHAXr-yqh0ci0Q0F-Gj7F61bbbeqXlJ]
The upcoming CMEx meeting is supported by American Eagle, Association of
Caribbean Media Workers, Barbara Pyle Foundation, Bay Gardens Resorts,
Calabash Cove Resort and Spa, Caribbean Business Enterprise Trust, Caribbean
Broadcasting Union, Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility, CaribWorldNews,
Coco Palm, Community Benefit Development, Counterpart International,
Marketplace Excellence, Palm Haven Hotel, Ruder Finn, Sensible Development
Corporation, SpeakEasy M.E.D.I.A. Foundation, Tourism Development Company of Trinidad
and Tobago, and Tropical Shipping.

FIRST Breezes RESORT IN PANAMA OPENED ITS DOORS ON OCTOBER 1

Fourth Night Free and 25 Percent Off Celebratory Consumer Savings

HOLLYWOOD, FL, October 5, 2009 – Breezes Panama, the newest addition to the popular Super-Inclusive resort chain opened its doors on October 1, 2009.  The resort marks the first Panamanian development by SuperClubs, and welcomes guests of all ages.   In celebration of its launch, Breezes Panama is offering travelers savings throughout the month, including 25 percent off when booking a Deluxe Oceanview or a higher room category by October 25, 2009.  Grand Opening Sale rates start at $109 per person, per night, based on double-occupancy for travel through October 31, 2009.  Those who prefer November 1 through December 22 travel dates will receive their fourth night free when booking four nights or more by October 21.  

Nestled between lush, tropical vegetation and the pristine Pacific Ocean, Breezes Panama is situated in the southern coastal resort community of Santa Clara in the Coclé province.  Singles, couples and families can soak up the sun on the long stretch of beach, dive into five swimming pools or dine at four restaurants boasting Japanese, Italian and local fare.  After a day of complimentary tennis or snorkeling, guests can retreat to one of 294 guestrooms and suites, or indulge in a rejuvenating treatment at the full-service, à la carte Miraflores Spa. 

Located just 1 hour and 30 minutes from Panama City, with its world-renowned canal and thriving shopping centers, and less than 45 minutes from Anton Valley/El Valle, a mountainous region with a fertile volcanic valley, those itching to explore Panama’s natural wonders and historic sites can turn to the resort’s tour desk to book an excursion. 

The Grand Opening Sale is good for travel through October 31, 2009 and must be booked by October 25.  Black out dates apply, and include October 25 – 29.  The Fourth Night Free promotion is available for travel November 1 – December 22, 2009 and must be booked by October 21.

For more information or to book a Breezes Panama vacation, call 1-877-BREEZES (273-3937), visit www.breezes.com or contact your travel agent.

SuperClubs, the world’s only Super-Inclusive resort group, includes properties in three SuperClubs brand categories: Grand Lido Resorts - Grand Lido Negril Resort & Spa and Grand Lido Braco Resort & Spa, both in Jamaica; Breezes Resorts - Breezes Runaway Bay Resort & Golf Club in Jamaica; Breezes Bahamas; Breezes Curaçao Resort, Spa & Casino; Breezes Costa Do Sauipe in Brazil; and Hedonism Resorts - Hedonism II in Negril and Hedonism III in Runaway Bay, both in Jamaica. 

Every SuperClubs holiday is Super-Inclusive - accommodations; all meals, SuperSnacks and premium brand cocktails; unlimited use of all sports facilities, including equipment rental and instruction; entertainment; weddings; recreational activities; and hotel taxes - with absolutely no tipping allowed.  SuperClubs operates and independently markets affiliate Starfish and ROOMS resorts, and Jamaica’s Negril Beach villa.  For more information or reservations, contact SuperClubs at (800) GO-SUPER (467-8737) or visit their website at www.superclubs.com.

Ferry service soon to be a choice for five Southern Caribbean destinations

By Linda Straker, eTN Staff Writer | Aug 19, 2009

ST. GEORGE’S, Grenada - Five destinations in the southern Caribbean will
soon enjoy an inter-island passenger ferry service that will cost almost
one-third of the amount it cost to travel to the islands by air.
As of October 01, 2009, the service will be offered to residents of
Barbados, St. Vincent, St. Lucia, Trinidad and Grenada. Owned and operated
by BEDY Ocean Lines in Grenada the service will officially be launched on
October 1, but will make its maiden voyage departing from each of the
destinations on October 20, 2009.
Costing between US$120 and US$140 and already inclusive of relevant
government taxes associated with inter-island travel including Value Added
Taxes. In Grenada’s case, it will be implemented as of February 2010.
The duration of a trip from each country will range between one and half
hours to three and half hours. “These are passenger speed boats and it will
it make more or less time to arrive in each destination because naturally
some islands are closer to each but basically no trip will not extend beyond
three and a half hours,” BEDY Ocean Lines CEO Benjamin Ross said.
The company had originally planned to launch the service in July, but had to
delay the service to facilitate a second ferry. This has resulted in one
ferry making St. Vincent its home and will service the St. Vincent to
Barbados and St. Lucia routes, while the second ferry will be based in
Grenada and will service the Grenada to Trinidad and Barbados route. The
seating capacity per boat will be 260 and 300, respectively. The company
hopes that very soon into the operation, other neighboring countries will be
added.
Speaking about safety, Ross said that the vessels, with American and
Caribbean crew, would contain a radio system to communicate with the nearest
port and immigration at each destination.
There will also be certain rules and regulations in place for passengers’
safety. “For instance, passengers must be at the check-in area at least 30
minutes before departure and would be searched and subjected to customs and
immigration laws,” he said, while confirming that no alcoholic beverages
would be consumed on board.
Speaking about the baggage and ticketing system, Ross said the free baggage
allowance would be two pieces at a maximum of 60 pounds, plus a carry-on.
Extra pieces would only be accepted on a space available basis. Tickets will
be valid for a maximum of 60 days will be non-refundable and passengers
would be allowed to change their reservations up to three hours before a
scheduled departure.
Promising to provide patrons with a fast, reliable, comfortable, safe and
extremely cheap way to travel, the ferry services come at a time when the
traveling public has been negatively affected by high airline rates and
baggage restrictions.
“This ferry will be offering daily service to the islands mentioned and
management is confident that customers will have a perfect way of reuniting
with families and friends while business persons will now have a reliable
mode of travel,” the company said in a statement.

Winter Caribbean News
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From Saint Lucia

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* Ladera Welcomes Children 10 years and up during the holiday period. Click here
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From the Turks & Caicos Islands

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From Virgin Gorda

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History, mysteries, celebrations and the like: Grenada’s diverse
heritage makes it the ideal all season vacation for Caribbean
Aficionados
—————————————————————–
September 8, 2009. (St. George’s, Grenada, WI)—Canadians have a
reputation for being all season adventurous travelers. They
expect to absorb a lot of history and culture from their host
country. Grenada’s long, storied history and unique culture help
make the island the perfect ‘inclusive’ vacation for Canadian
history buffs and Caribbean culture aficionados.

Grenada’s history in the eyes of the west began in 1498 when
Christopher Columbus sailed by the island on his third voyage to
the New World. Named the island of Conception by Columbus,
Grenada finally made it onto the map.

The indigenous people of the island, the Caribs, were left alone
on Conception until 1609 when the British tried to establish a
colony. Unfortunately for the British, the Caribs scared the
British off. It was not until 1650 that the French came ashore
and attempted to take control. The French finally subdued the
Caribs in 1651 when, rather than submitting to the questionable
benefits of colonization, the remaining Caribs threw themselves
off La Morne de Sauteur (Leaper’s Hill) onto the rocks below.

Grenada went back and forth between the British and the French
for over a century until the Treaty of Versailles ceded Grenada
to the British. Grenada has been an independent country since
1974 and is a democracy based on the British parliamentary
system. Although Grenada is English-speaking, the French heritage
is evident in the surnames of many islanders and in the local
French-Patois spoken by many.

Visitors can trace the colonial history of Grenada through the
series of forts across the island. Perhaps the most famous are
the four ‘back-to-front’ forts (Forts Frederick, Adolphus, Lucas
and Mathew) begun by the French in the 1770s and completed by the
British in 1791. The forts, strategically located on the hills
and facing the horseshoe harbour actually have their cannons
trained not to the sea but instead face inland protecting Grenada
from an internal rather than external foe. Strange indeed!

As an alternate and a less strenuous activity, visitors can take
a trip to Carib’s Leap or Leaper’s Hill, the place where the
Carib’s ended their rule of the island. Located directly north of
the town of Sauteurs, the Hill is a steep cliff face that
descends vertically for more than 100 feet, that has a visitors
viewing area.

Grenada’s history is deeply connected to its spices. Known as the
‘Spice of the Caribbean,’ Grenada’s abundant nutmeg, turmeric,
vanilla bean, cocoa, allspice, clove, and cinnamon crops are the
reason the island was so sought after as a colony in the 17th and
18th centuries.

The Nutmeg Processing Station in Gouyave, which is about 40
minutes from St. George’s, offers a tour, a brief history of the
nutmeg industry, and gives a clearer picture of the many uses for
Grenada’s number one export spice. Chocoholics beware!
Grenville’s cocoa co-op details the process from pod to product
with a few free samples thrown in for good measure. Plus, Belmont
Estate is a welcome chocolate retail therapeutic excursion.

Grenada’s distinct culture is celebrated with a number of
festivals during the year. Starting in January, as a kick off for
the high season, Grenada hosts the Annual Bill Fish Tournament
that gives anglers the opportunity to catch a piece of the action
in some of the Caribbean’s best game fish waters.

Then in February, Independence Day celebrates when Grenada became
an independent country.

June comes along with the legendary Fisherman’s Birthday
Celebration held in the historic town of Gouyave. The event
begins with Church services and the blessing of boats and nets,
followed by boat races, fishing displays and late evening
parties.

Sailing festivals and regattas that run from January through to
July recall Grenada’s seafaring roots. Sailing regattas and
festivals consist of competitive races, junior races, Sunfish
races, a small boat regatta and other challenging big yacht
events for sailing enthusiasts from around the world.

Grenada’s Carnival, “Spice Mas” is a tribute to the fusion of
island French and African heritages. Based loosely on the
pre-Lenten Carnival celebrated in France, Spice Mas is Carnival
with a distinctly Grenadian twist. Beginning the end of July and
ending the second week of August, Spice Mas features Calypso
music, bright costumes, the Short Knees, and several island
traditions. Spice Mas is an amazing celebration of what it means
to be Grenadian.

For culture off the beaten path, explore Grenada’s sister islands
of Carriacou (KARRy-a-COU) and Petite Martinique for an array of
attractions and festivals unique to these islands.

Or, for a change of pace, kick back and relax on one of Grenada’s
40 notable white and black sand beaches. Grenada’s most famous
and one of the largest in the Caribbean is the stretch called
Grand Anse. This is a perfect place to walk particularly at the
end of the day when locals come to have a swim. Grand Anse Beach,
a sheltered two-mile stretch of perfect white sand, dotted with
sea grape and palm trees, just south of the capital St. George’s,
is recognized as being one of the world’s best beaches.

About Grenada Board of Tourism: The Grenada Board of Tourism was
formed in 1991 to market and promote Grenada as a preferred
Caribbean tourist destination, while also providing technical and
managerial support to industry partners. For more information on
Grenada contact the Grenada Board of Tourism office in Toronto at
416-595-1339, e-mail at tourism@grenadaconsulate.com
[tourism@grenadaconsulate.com]

How to Get to Grenada: Grenada can be reached via Air Canada
Vacations that operates a direct flight from Toronto to Grenada (
11 resorts, Sunday departure with easy connections from major
Canadian gateways, and bookings for the 2009/10 season available
at www.aircanadavacations.com
[http://www.aircanadavacations.com]) from December 20, 2009 to
April 2010. AC operates daily flights from Toronto to Barbados (
Saturday & Sunday departure from Montreal) with connections on
LIAT to Grenada and Caribbean Airlines operate regularly
scheduled flights from Toronto to Barbados and Trinidad with
connections on LIAT to Grenada. GG Tours and Titan Tours operate
seasonal charter services (www.ggtours.ca [http://www.ggtours.ca]
and www.titantours.com [http://www.titantours.com]). West Jet
operates a flight from Toronto to Barbados with connections on
LIAT to Grenada from November onwards. American Airlines operates
a non-stop flight three times per week from Miami to Grenada from
November onwards.