Well before 1991, Anguilla’s policy was already in place fashioning the island as a high-end destination.
But, unfortunately, the requisite quality tourism collateral material needed to properly and adequately promote the destination did not exist.
At least, not to the feeling of the publisher of the very first ever local tourism publication – the monthly What We Do In Anguilla tourism paper – that served the island from Nov. 1987 to the end of 2013 (26 years!).
So, in 1990, he travelled to Toronto and Montreal to see for himself exactly what the other Caribbean Tourism Organization members displayed at their booths as promotional material.
Anguilla’s booth was unique in that it had the island charm; but, was lacking a magazine to sell travel agents on the destination and to attract investors and visitors.
A representative of Anguilla’s then North American tourism agency pointed to the urgent need for some type of destination magazine as a start, saying it did not necessarily have to be an expensive glossy.
The publisher had already decided to print the much needed tourism magazine. Now, urged, he returned home excited and ready to work to make it all happen.
In 1991, 60,000 copies were printed with the help and support of a French artist residing on Anguilla who, calling for a signed agreement, then loaned US$10,000 worth of her slides from which to choose photos which were colour separated somewhere in Asia; also of some very trusting, brave advertisers; family and other supporters; folks who sold and/or bought raffle tickets, proceeds of the raffle being around US$10,000; the aggressive, new Scotiabank branch which took a chance and loaned the remainder; and, finally, the film and print companies in Toronto which were so very patient, understanding and helpful.
The publishers extend much gratitude to all – including the various local governments and Boards of Tourism, the AHTA and other entities – who have helped to make the magazine one which has served the destination so devotedly and well over the many, many years.
Much gratitude also goes to our returning visitors, most of whom are loyal seekers and readers of the yearly publication.
To make their vacation more fun filled and enjoyable we will be printing “Enjoy!” a What We Do In Anguilla brochure offering discounts, samples and freebies. We invite fellow tourism stakeholders to come onboard.
Over the past 25 years, we have experienced firsthand the advancement of technology. Now, fans of What We Do In Anguilla can keep in touch through social media. Like, Comment, Share, Follow!
Needed still are persons willing to go out in the field representing the company selling ads on commission.
Facebook: What We Do In Anguilla.
Twitter: @wwdiaxa264.
Blog site: wwdiaxa264.wordpress.com
Cel: 1-264-583-1443
Email: whatwedoinanguilla@yahoo.com
– Contributed
(Published without editing by The Anguillian newspaper.)
