By Monique Washington
Nevispages.com
A month-long calendar of activities has been planned for the second staging of ‘Exposition Nevis, All Things Tourism’. This began April 6, 2017 and will end May 20, 2017.
The theme chosen for this year is ‘Sustainability is our Responsibility’ which, according to acting Permanent Secretary in Tourism, Mr. John Hanley, falls in line with the designation of 2017 by the United Nations as the International year of Sustainable Development for Tourism.
According to Hanley who spoke at a press conference at the St. Paul’s Anglican Church on Monday, April 03, 2017, Exposition Nevis has been strategically timed.
“Exposition Nevis is positioned on the shoulder of the transition from the high tourism season to the low season as we move to reduce the impact of seasonality which is a major challenge of the tourism industry on Nevis,” he said.
Hanley said that during Exposition 2017, the Ministry of Tourism will be showcasing aspect of the Nevis product and “demonstrate core principles for sustainability community participation protection of the Nevis cultural heritage, eco tourist adventure, amongst other things.”
Also, speaking at the press conference was Minister responsible for Tourism, Hon Mark Brantley. He noted that the objective throughout Exposition 2017 is to expose the public to all things Nevis.
He stated, “We do it first for our people and when the tourist come here they enjoy it as well”.
Hon Brantley said that this year they have partnered with different groups and organization such the Blues Festival, SJCIC Kite Flying competition, Barnes Ghaut breadfruit festival, Booby Island regatta amongst other.
Upcoming activities include Good Friday kite flying on the Flats (April 14), Waterfall hike (April 22); Launch of 2018 Children’s Tourism Calendar Competition (April 24); Official opening of the Artesian Village (April 28); Booby Island Regatta “Round de Rock” (April 30); Booby Island Regatta “Booby Island Cup at Oualie” ( May 1); Hospitality Immersion for High School students (May 3); Hospitality Immersion for Primary schools (May 4); Hike to Saddle Hill (May 6); Tour of Barnes Ghaut (May 9); Open Day at the Heritage Village (May 11); Youth Tourism Minister duologue (May 16); and the Bank of Nevis Congress (May 18). The events will close with the Exposition Nevis Tourist Awards (May 20).
Hon Brantley encouraged the public to “come out and join events”.