The Discover Dominica Authority officially launched Tourism Awareness Month 2015 on May 4st under the recurring theme ‘Tourism Is Everybody’s Business, Let’s Play Our Part’.
Chief Executive Officer of the DDA and Director of Tourism, Colin Piper, says the month is one of reflection as well as collaboration.
“We as industry stakeholders take this time to reflect on the greater achievements and challenges facing tourism development in Dominica. We also seek to engage the population and increase public involvement in tourism activities and development efforts in the country.”
He further stated that the month of activities is important since it creates an opportunity for Dominicans to become more involved in the growth of the island’s tourism sector.
“While tourism remains to global economic changes-both positive and negative-Dominica has an opportunity to capitalize on the growing demand for little-known destinations and escapes from the norm. All the players in the industry need to view tourism differently because we are different from our closest competitors…”
In his address at the launch, Hon. Minister for Urban Renewal, Senator Robert Tonge believes the youth in particular play a big role in preserving the tourism sector.
This is why this month features several activities geared towards the youth.
He listed the “Tourism Youth Congress, the Youth Essay Competition and visits to primary and secondary schools island wide. The winner of the Tourism Youth Congress will represent Dominica at the Regional Youth Congress organized by the Caribbean Tourism [Organisation]. Let’s also remember the FCCA Contest which an individual and his/her school can win as much as US $3,000. Last year that was won by the Castle Bruce Secondary School.
“The much-anticipated Selfie Contest which calls participants to submit photos of themselves at any of our scenic spots is expected to capture the interest of many youths in particular.”
Special recognition was given to persons who have played a large part in Dominica’s tourism sector for a number of years.
They included Margel Durand for tourism taxi services, Simon Rolle for tour guiding services, Jungle Trekking and Adventure Safaris for island touring.
The Director of Tourism Award was presented to Gerry Aird.
