up with industry news . There are quite a few editors of trade publications that I have developed relationships with over the years , and articles of interest are usually sent to me . I also attend many networking events with tour operators , airlines , travel agents and destination partners .
How have recent global events , such as the COVID-19 pandemic or climate change , impacted your sales strategy and how has the GTA adapted ? The COVID-19 pandemic hit Grenada hard both socially and economically . The halt in tourism during that time led to economic contraction but our people are resilient , and we made a swift rebound , specifically in our tourism sector . Arrival numbers are trending in the right direction with our first quarter numbers surpassing 2019 visitors by 2 %.
Realizing that the diaspora will lead the charge in our tourism rebound , the GTA launched our 473 Connect ( 473connect . com ) diaspora program . As a 473 Connect Ambassador , the diaspora gains access to training resources to help support their efforts to promote our little slice of paradise . Once a member of the diaspora convinces someone in their network to book their next trip to Grenada , they log that booking themselves on the 473 Connect Platform or refer them to one of our Grenada Travel Experts ( Travel Agents ), and they will be rewarded with points . At the end of the calendar year , the 473 Connect Ambassador with the most points will get the ultimate reward – an all-inclusive paid vacation for 2 , including airfare , accommodation , meals , an excursion , and transfers .
Travel agents are at the center of the booking process and we at the GTA have recognized and as such , we hold regular webinars to educate them on Grenada ’ s unique selling points . We have also started a travel agent training programs for travel professionals who wish to learn more about Grenada . Agents can log onto expert . puregrenada . com complete a short course and log any Grenada booking to be rewarded with points and a Grand Prize for the agent with the most bookings at the end of the calendar year .
We have also increased our social media presence and have done a revamp of our official website PureGrenada . com . Here and at trade shows , we have been promoting many of our local festivals including our , Chocolate Festival , Dive and Conservation festival , Carriacou Maroon and Strig Band festival , Regattas and our premier event Spicemas .
We recognize that Airlift is important in all of this and as such we have been engaging our current airline partners regarding additional flights and more reliable connections to the destination . We have also reached out to other airlines about the possibility of choosing Grenada as a destination as the demand is growing as people are now looking for “ off the beaten path ” places to visit , especially after the pandemic .
Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in tourism . Can you discuss your organization ' s approach towards sustainable and responsible tourism ? Staying true to our brand , Pure Grenada , the island has enacted the Non-Biodegradable Waste Control Act to ban polystyrene ( Styrofoam ) and single-use plastics such as shopping bags , plastic utensils , plates , straws , and cups , which are harmful to the marine and coastal environment . We have also taken steps to integrate coastal zone management and environmental sustainability requirements
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