The Caribbean islands of Grenada, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines united with Sandals to present an unforgettable Travel Advisors Mixer at the Hilton Toronto Airport (26FEB, 2024).
A gathering of 150 travel advisors from Ontario convened for an evening filled with networking and exploration, delving into the distinct charms of these island gems. Open Jaw spoke with several agents; many had booked clients to one or more of these destinations, while others had no exposure, which was one of the main reasons for attending this event.
The energy was buzzing in the room as travel advisors roamed from each destination station to another. They were picking up brochures from destination desks, Rum samples from Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and spice packets from Grenada. While over at the Saint Lucia desk, advisors learned about why the island is famous for its romantic vacations and the Pitons.
Ernie George, Sales Manager for Saint Lucia, stated, 'It's always challenging to gather many agents around this time of year due to the abundance of activities. We decided to make it enjoyable by bringing together three islands - St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Grenada Tourism Authority, Saint Lucia, and Sandals."
Why host a three-island mixer?
Sandals has properties on all three islands. Agents who sell one can sell all three, and we're so interconnected that you can experience one and explore three islands, or you can seamlessly transition to the other islands.
"We kept this event exclusive for individuals who have sold these three destinations and Sandals.” He added.
The first part of the evening involved mingling at the tables, discovering what was new and exciting and picking up swag.
The second part consisted of presentations on the developments in the islands.
Lastly, it was time for a mixer with cocktails and munchies, the perfect setting for networking with representatives and colleagues.
As the crowd moved to the presentation room, each Sales Representative showcased the highlights of their respective islands, with Sandals covering all three Island properties.
For those who couldn’t attend
A Recap of the Presentations
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Andrew Phillips, Assistant Director of Sales Canada, Saint Vincent & Grenadines (SVG), highlighted that in the trifecta of islands, SVG is the smallest of the islands and located between Grenada and Saint Lucia, ideally situated for Island hopping. The island has enormous potential for growth, especially with the addition of Sandals Resort opening next month.
A few facts Phillips covered:
- There are 32 islands and cays, of which 9 are inhabited. They cover 150 sq miles in total.
- Islands consist of Saint. Vincent (largest Island), Bequia, Canouan, Mustique, Mayreau, Petit St. Vincent, Palm Island, Tobago Cays, Union Island, and Young Island.
- Each island has its unique attractions, from Hiking, Relaxation, exclusivity and Sailing. Some of these islands are only accessible by water.
- The main island, St. Vincent, takes the lead in offering a diverse range of eco-experiences. With its volcanic terrain, abundant hiking trails, and cascading waterfalls.
- Airlift from Canada includes four flights a week with Air Canada. In April, the flights will switch to one a week.
- Interisland flights include three airlines that service Saint Vincent and four of the inhabited Islands. Plus, six inter-island Ferry services currently exist.
The big news: Sandals Saint Vincent opens late 27MAR, 2024. The resort is located in a secluded cove in St Andrew, Saint Vincent, just 15 miles from SVG airport.
Key features include Two-Bedroom Butler Villas, the exclusive Vincy Overwater Two-Story Villas, a 300-foot linear pool, and 16 distinct culinary experiences.
Note for Agents: Sign up on Discoversvgpro.com for certifications, news, sales toolbox and education.
Saint Lucia
Ernie George, the Sales Manager for the USA and Canada at the Saint Lucia Tourism Board, shared abundant insights about Saint Lucia, intriguing attendees with the island's namesake inspired by a woman. Serving as the master of evening ceremonies, George entertained the audience and voiced concern about missed selling opportunities for agents.
- Many experts often need to pay more attention to lucrative opportunities, leaving potential earnings untapped. It's common for experts only partially to capitalize on all available options for their clients. There's room for increased profitability.
- Acquaint yourself with essential information, and become an advocate for St. Lucia.
- -St. Lucia is an award-winning destination, blending diverse cultural influences into a tapestry of beauty and sophistication.
- Pay attention to the potential revenue streams from transfers; thorough exploration often reveals untapped opportunities.
- Airlift from Canada includes four flights a week with Air Canada. Sunwing offers one flight a week, and Westjet three flights a week. Note this is the winter schedule for January – April 2024.
Noteworthy:
- The Pitons, two mountainous volcanic spears, form the island's most famous landmark.
- Saint Lucia is also home to the world's only drive-in volcano, the Sulphur Springs.
- Saint Lucia is also famous for its chocolate; in some resorts, Chocolate Labs teach chocolate-making classes.
Note for Agents: Sign up on Slex.recommend.com to learn, sell more, certification as a Saint Lucia Expert (Slex), news, and sales tools.
Grenada
Sekou Stroude, the Director of Sales for Canada at the Grenada Tourism Authority, highlighted the allure of the Spice Island. Renowned for its aromatic spices, particularly Nutmeg, which is exported globally, Grenada holds the esteemed title of being the number one producer of chocolate in the Caribbean.
A few facts Stroude highlighted:
- Grenada's tourism industry has the potential for significant growth, but the need for flights into the island hinders this progress. Book those seats. Due to its location, Grenada is safely below the hurricane belt.
- As the "Spice Island," priority is given to sustainable tourism, favouring intimate experiences over mega-resorts.
- Visitors are encouraged to explore beyond the resorts and interact with locals, providing a more authentic experience.
- Grenada Eastern Caribbean dollar, pegged to the US dollar at a rate of $2.67 EC per US dollar. Visitors should use US dollars or exchange their currency upon arrival due to fluctuations in other currencies.
- Grenada comprises three main islands: Grenada, Carriacou, and Petit Martinique. Grenada is the largest, covering 133 square miles, and offers diverse attractions such as waterfalls, crater lakes, and excellent cuisine.
- With 45 beaches and diverse flora, Grenada offers an array of daily experiences. From serene white sand beaches to rugged black sand shores, the volcanic landscape provides a unique backdrop for exploration.
- Airlift for Grenada stands at four weekly flights via Air Canada and one weekly flight with Sunwing. In April, there will be one weekly flight until October via Air Canada.
Note for Agents: Sign up on expert.puregrenada.com for sales information and education.
Sandals
CJ Smith, Director of Sales Canada, Sandals Unique Vacations, led the charge for Sandals with a few remarks from his colleague Robert Smith, Business Development Manager- Eastern Ontario & Northern Ontario for Unique Vacations.
CJ Smith says, "Understanding why Sandals Resorts is here tonight is essential.
"We embody the Caribbean spirit as a brand, celebrating its essence for the past 42 years. While we're proudly Jamaican-owned and operated, we ensure each island's personality is honoured.
"It's not just about respecting the culture; it's about infusing it into every aspect of our resorts. As our executive chairman famously says, 'We are Caribbean. This is our sandbox,'" he adds.
A few facts:
Saint Lucia has three Sandal properties: Sandals Regency La Toc, Sandals Halcyon Beach and Sandals Grande St Lucian. Guests can stay at one resort but enjoy the other resorts on day trips; each is only fifteen to twenty minutes distance from the other.
Grenada has one property - Sandals Grenada.
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines will have its first Sandals property in March 2023.
Travel Advisors can take advantage of the current promotion on the mentioned properties by visiting Sandals Special Offers.
