The Grenada Tourism Authority (GTA) has hosted the second annual Tour Operator Marketplace, which took place at the Royalton Grenada Resort and Spa.
Sixteen (16) tour operators from the UK, USA and Canada participated in a dynamic and experiential travel symposium as well as held one on one meetings with local tourism stakeholders from all sectors, including accommodations, tours, culinary, dive and adventure. They were also treated to a diverse, informative and immersive programme of activities where they experienced many of the signature destination activities of Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique.
Tour operators are an important part of the distribution channel as they are the intermediary between the destination and the customer, either direct or through travel advisors.
CEO of the Grenada Tourism Authority Petra Roach said, “We are hoping that with this initiative, our tour operator partners understand what a multi faceted product Grenada has to offer, and will therefore expand their accommodation footprint and activities that their customers – our visitors – can experience.
Our global airlift is back with increased capacity. We depend on these operators to fill these planes and we are truly appreciative that they took the time to join us and experience Grenada first hand. The recurring comment we are hearing from them is that they didn’t realize that Grenada offers so much.”
Local stakeholders are very appreciative of the initiative and villa owner Sandra Dacres of ATMA Island Living stated, “we are thrilled that we have this opportunity to bring awareness to the smaller properties in the north of Grenada. It is the most secluded part of the island with lots of hidden treasures, attractions, and stunning beaches. We can customize experiences by adding an array of soft and hard excursions. We are encouraging visitors to visit the north; they won’t be disappointed.”
CEO Roach further added, “Targets for 2023 are aggressive and we expect to surpass our banner year of 2019 by 4%. Getting new product on board and expanding the current programmes will ensure that we are well on our way to achieving that goal.”
