The just-ended Tourism Week 2019, in Anguilla, included several activities which were geared to spreading a greater awareness of the tourist industry – and the importance of its employment and economic benefits.
Apart from the opening service at the Hilltop Baptist Church, at Island Harbour, the week of activities included radio talks by officials in the Ministry of Tourism and the Tourist Board; talks in schools where the industry has taken root through special awareness programmes; a presentation of awards to persons for their contributions to the industry; and The Valley Street Festival.
The Festival, on the grounds of the Department of Agriculture, in the same location of the Tourist Board’s office building, was perhaps one of the most attractive activities. The event was heavily supported by a number of food vendors and other persons selling exotic plants, arts and crafts and various other items including books – some of which tell the story of Anguilla. Among the exhibitors were members of the “Hello Tourist” Club of the Albena Lake-Hodge Comprehensive School who sold various local delicacies.
The Tourism Valley Street Festival is a commemoration of Anguilla’s culture featuring local vendors of traditional foods and drinks under the theme: “a taste of the island”. It also features local string band musical bands and other genres of music.
Among the visitors to the Festival were members of a UK team of travel writers escorted by tour guide and Tourism Marketing Assistant Manager, Mr. Colwayne Pickering.
