While many Canadians may think of the Cayman Islands as strictly a winter getaway for sun and sand, the Department of Tourism was out in full force over the last few weeks, promoting the fact that there is much more to the island trio than meets the eye.
Three youngsters proudly show off the Cayman turtle they made at the workshop. Photo: Submitted |
At the Toronto Sportsmen’s Show, which attracted over 125,000 attendees, the DoT touted its numerous outdoor pursuits including boating, fishing, kayaking and hiking, underscoring that there is more than just diving and snorkelling available to the adventurer, said a press release.
The timing of the show also allowed the DoT to impress upon attendees that the destination is open for business year-round, with enticing promotions during the spring, summer and fall months.
The destination also got creative by developing a unique way to reach out to the travel industry. The DoT invited its travel partners to bring their children to a series of workshops presented by Cayman Traditional Arts, a local company that promotes the culture of the islands through hands-on arts and crafts activities, games and food demonstrations.
The workshops, held at the Ontario Science Centre, were offered free-of-charge and provided the opportunity for the travel industry and their children to learn about Caymanian culture, an important part of the tourist experience. The timing couldn’t have been better, with many parents looking for educational March Break activities to keep the kids busy during their time off from school, said the press release.
‘Our involvement with Cayman Traditional Arts and participation in the Toronto Sportsmen’s Show allowed us to communicate that fact that this destination is very diverse,’ said Mr. Shomari Scott, Deputy Director, International Marketing for the Department of Tourism. ‘Typically we are noted for our superb diving, but there are endless activities one can participate in such as running in the Cayman Marathon, kayaking in the mangroves or hiking the Bluff in Cayman Brac. Or, one can simply soak up the culture that still exists today, whether by visiting the Cayman Craft Market and the Turtle Farm at Boatswain’s Beach or simply tasting some local dishes on the menu at many of the Islands’ restaurants.’
The workshops were so successful participants are already calling for the Cayman Islands to host similar activities on an annual basis. Later this month, the DoT will participate in LifeFest, a women’s beauty and health exposition, where they will promote their Summer Splash sales promotion and reach out to the important female demographic.
‘A large percentage of travel decisions are made by the woman in the family,’ said Mr. Scott. ‘So this is an excellent place for us to be.’
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