BASSETERRE, St. Kitts - WITH the local tourism sector buzzing with increases in the arrival of cruise vessels and passengers, the Ministry of Tourism is naming the diversity of tourist attractions as the reason for the increase. And as such, it is moving apace with upgrading a number of sites to enhance the visitor experience.
Among the spots being upgraded is Black Rocks which is located in the Belle Vue Village area.
During a recent media interview, Minister of Tourism the Hon. Lindsay Grant, in explaining what is the driving force behind the Federation being one of the leading destinations in the region for cruise ships, pointed to the quality of excursions and experience tourists receive while on the island, which results in them giving good reviews.
He noted that it is not only Brimstone Hill and the Scenic Railway that draw people to the island or have them return, but the array of cultural and historic sites on offer that is being highlighted in the international arena.
And, as a result, the Minister outlined that they are gradually refurbishing, uplifting and enhancing all sites around the island; he made specific mention of Black which is to receive a $3 Million facelift.
“We have started [working on] the roads in Black Rocks. We have started the tree planting in the Black Rocks (area), and this year we are going to put down the booths,” Grant noted.
After it has been upgraded, Black Rocks would be deemed a heritage site.
According to the St. Kitts-Nevis Information Service (SKNIS), the Minister had taken a proposal to Cabinet for the upgrade of the location and it was well received by all, owing to its historical and touristic value.
Further, the Minister told reporters that he would want to see more monies being invested in the history and culture of St. Kitts and Nevis, such as the mock-a-jumbies and the clowns.
This, he noted, would give visitors the full cultural experience of what St. Kitts and Nevis really is about.
To this end, the Ministry has established a Community Tourism Department which is now engaging people within the rural areas in order to ensure that they are also part of the tourist industry, Grant explained.
He, however, informed that one of the challenges that he faces in getting people in the country to understand that “tourism belongs to us” and so that any infraction that is suffered within the industry it would affect everyone within the Federation.
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