Mélange Travel & Lifestyle Magazine January 2020 | Page 270

Mount Taboi with its peak of 999 feet and the Grenadines (SVG) and to play a greater role in its development and promotion as a true tourist destination [in] both international and domestic spheres. We will increase [its] offering by working with local groups and tour operators to develop and market their products as well as expand the [number] of on-land attractions and festivals throughout the year. Also, we are hoping to increase the numbers of domestic visitors (from St. Vincent and other nearby islands) who are looking for a summer/school break getaway. Shana: What obstacles do you anticipate? Stanton: To launch several planned initiatives over the coming period would require greater financial resources. However, this [is not] an intimidating factor; it just means that we would have to explore wider options [beyond] traditional sources of funding. Shana: What are some new events/initiatives to look for from the newly directed tourism board? Stanton: One of the newest initiatives is the Conch Festival, which is slated to begin on February 29th and run [until] March 1st. Union Island [remains] well-known for its conch supply and this festival [will] highlight the conch trade, [including] conch dishes and jewelry. It [will] be an expo of everything conch! Persons can also expect to see cultural performances and be entertained with several musical performances. Shana: Why should visitors try Union before the other Grenadine islands? Stanton: Union Island has always been the tourism hub of the Grenadines: persons can take day charters to [nearby] Mayreau, the Tobago Cays, Happy Island, and two world renowned resorts: Palm Island and Petit St. Vincent (PSV). You can book an island tour, [do some] bird watching and hiking, [or] go bar-hopping throughout the [main] town of Clifton. Diving and snorkelling tours are available from the local dive shop and you can also learn the sport of kite surfing. View of the Ashton Lagoon from Big Hill The road towards Union’s expanded tourism product is long and challenging, but Stanton’s dedication remains unwavering. Together with his team and other like-minded local entrepreneurs and business owners, he stands ready to lead Union into its next era of tourism. All of us looking on anxiously await the big things coming! Tel - 1 784 458 8350 Facebook - www.facebook.com/visitunionisland Email - [email protected] Photo Credit: Stanton Gomes