Dominica Newsletter Issue 43

TOURISM UPDATE

Bimonthly Newsletter of the Discover Dominica Authority
Issue 43, December 2019

1

WELCOME & TABLE OF CONTENTS

COLIN PIPER Dear Partners,
CEO/Director of Tourism Happy Holidays from the Ministry of Tourism and Culture and the
management and staff of Discover Dominica Authority.
Photo Credit: DDA Image Library In this issue of Tourism Update we have much to celebrate. Dominica
saw the opening of its first 5-star brand property. Cabrits Resort &
WELCOME.........................................................1 Spa Kempinski Dominica, the latest addition to Europe’s oldest luxury
hotel group, opened its doors to guests on October 14. Jungle Bay
ACCOLADES & MENTIONS............................2 Dominica also reopened earlier this year, at a new location and we
anticipate the reopening of Rosalie Bay Eco-Resort in February 2020.
DEVELOPING THE TOURISM PRODUCT Gratitude is extended to the staff of the Authority for their hard work
100% Success at AHLEI in the successful execution of the 21st edition of Dominica’s World
Certification Training.......................................4 Creole Music Festival. There is no doubt that this was a raving
success in terms of visitor arrivals to the island and attendance at
328th Communication of the the event.
District of Barbados and the Continued collaboration, inclusive of press and familiarisation trip
Eastern Caribbean Conference.....................5 initiatives, between DDA and industry partners has resulted in
several accolades and mentions being bestowed on the destination in
KHP Karibik Trophy.........................................6 2019. We are also delighted to share the good news of the 100% pass
rate in the AHLEI Certification Training.
GoDominica's Pilot Project with In closing, we invite you to Mas Domnik 2020 which will run from
DDA & the DHTA...............................................7 January 18 – February 26. Do not be left out. Contact the band camps
and get in your section. Tickets are already out for several of the
2019 Blue Element Freediving events. Book your travel and come ‘Play de Riddim, Play Mas’.
Competition. ..................................................... 8
Yours in tourism development,
QUALITY ASSURANCE
Cabrits Resort & Spa Kempinski COLIN PIPER
Dominica...........................................................9 CEO/Director of Tourism - Discover Dominica Authority

Jungle Bay Dominica.....................................10 Cover:
Cabrits Resort and Spa Kempinski Dominica
Rosalie Bay Eco Resort — Photo Credit: DDA Image Library
Reopening February 2020............................10

DESTINATION MARKETING
Dominica Winter Project
Phase Two with Matador Network.............. 11

Press and Familiarization Trips................... 11

TRADE SHOW & CONFERENCE REPORTS
26th FCCA Cruise Conference
and Tradeshow...............................................13

World Travel Market 2019.............................14

2019 Diving Equipment & Marketing
Association (DEMA) Dive Show....................14

TOURISM DATA MANAGEMENT
Y-T-D (October) and World Creole
Music Festival, Stayover Arrivals Exceed
Pre-disaster Levels.......................................15

EVENTS & FESTIVALS
21st Edition of the World Creole
Music Festival.................................................16

National Carnival Queen
Pageant 2020 Contestants...........................17

LOOKING AHEAD
Mas Domnik 2020 Flyer................................18

DDA CONTACTS & NEWS.............................19

1

ACCOLADES & MENTIONS

Discover Dominica Authority dominates at Caribbean
Tourism Organization’s Travel Media Awards

At Caribbean Tourism Organization’s Travel Media
Awards held on November 5, 2019 during World
Travel Market, Discover Dominica Authority picked
up a number of awards across the eight individual
categories:

• Juliet Rix won the Best National Newspaper award
for her inspiring coverage on Dominica two years
after the devastation of Hurricane Maria featured
in the Telegraph’s print as ‘The Calm After the
Storm’ and online as ‘Rediscovering Dominica two
years after the hurricane’.

• Blogger Macca Sherifi of An Adventurous World Chef Ainsley Harriot - 3rd place in the Best Broadcast Category
scooped the combined Best Online & Blog Post Photo Credit: The Brighter Group – Finn Partners
award. In his feature and video, Macca brings the
island of Dominica to life through his passionate
and inspiring travel guide ‘ What to do in Dominica-
My Travel Guide to Dominica’.

• Dominica also picked up third place in the Best
Broadcast Category for Ainsley’s Caribbean Kitchen
- Dominica, presented by chef Ainsley Harriott.

Discover Dominica Authority also sponsored the category for Best Travel Trade Feature. Colin Piper, CEO said
“The travel trade is incredibly important to spreading the message of Dominica to their customers and we felt it
necessary to sponsor this category. Since Hurricane Maria travel trade publications including Travel Weekly and
TTG have supported the rebuild of the island by spreading the message that we are open for business and keen to
welcome new visitors, for that we will be forever grateful.”

Discover Dominica Authority wins the Global Resilience in Business award at the 4th annual Global
Resilience Summit.

Discover Dominica Authority has been globally recognized by the International Institute for Peace through
Tourism and awarded a Champions of Challenge Award for resilience in business following the recovery
of the island after Hurricane Maria.

This was awarded to Dominica for the celebration of cultural diversity through a proven approach that
incorporates human interaction as an asset that promotes relationships nurtured and promoted through
sustainable tourism that is environmentally sound. Discover Dominica Authority exhibited that the strategy
is producing exponential growth or practices that invest heavily in their people or those of the community.

2

ACCOLADES & MENTIONS

Discover Dominica Authority’s marketing agency Dominica received the following mentions in 2019:
wins at the International Travel and Tourism Awards.
The Brighter Group, a Finn Partners Company, the Travel Lemmings
UK marketing agency for Discover Dominica Authority • The 30 Top Emerging Travel Destinations for 2020
scooped the top award – Best Marketing Agency at
the International Travel and Tourism Awards for their The Wall Street Journal's
campaign ‘Recovery for ReDiscovery Resilience for • 10 Places to Travel In 2020—Before Everyone Else
Dominica’. The 2019 International Travel & Tourism
Awards celebrated excellence in the industry across Does
15 awards categories. The awards were presented in
front of an audience of over 500 senior travel industry Fodor
professionals. • Jungle Bay Named One of "Fodor's Finest Hotels

CEO shows off Best Marketing Agency award 2020”
Photo Credit: The Brighter Group – Finn Partners
Lonely Plan
• Secret Bay Featured in Eco-Luxury Resort Piece in

Lonely Planet!

Matador Network
• The 25 places you need to travel to in 2019

Forbes.com
• The 10 Most Anticipated New Caribbean Hotels For

2019 And Beyond

MSN.com
• 21 Top New Hotels Opening in 2019

• These 20 islands are an adventurer’s dream

Jetsetter
• 8 Drop-Dead Gorgeous Island Getaways for Spring

Organic Authority
• 8 Less-Traveled Islands Worth a Visit

Travel+Leisure
• Cover Photo

Outside Magazine
• The 33 Best Trips of 2019

Newsweek
• Luxury Green Travel: Where to Go for the Best

Eco-Friendly Hotels

The Caribbean Travel Awards 2020
• Luxury Destination of the Year: Dominica

• New Hotel of the Year: Cabrits Resort & Spa 3
Kempinski Dominica

DEVELOPING THE
TOURISM PRODUCT

Three of the AHLEI top perfomers: Emerlie Maxwell (left), Sweenda Pascal (Middle) & Jesslyn Nelson (right).
Photo Credit: DDA Image Library

100% Success at AHLEI Certification Training Emerlie Maxwell, Sweenda Pascal, Jesslyn Nelson and
Odile Jno Baptiste, Product Promotions Manager, DDA Keturah Charles were the top performers of the group.

Seventy-eight (78) individuals earned certification from With the advent of the opening of new properties such
the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute as Jungle Bay Resort and Cabrits Resort and Spa
(AHLEI) after successfully completing training in the Kempinski Dominica, DDA has adopted an approach
areas of Front Desk Operations, Housekeeping and to prepare citizens to acquire the necessary skills
Food and Beverage. This globally recognized industry and tools required to earn gainful employment. It is
certification has equipped participants with the skills imperative that efforts are undertaken to equip the
required to enter the hospitality workforce with labor force with a variety of training programs to
recognized credentials. ensure a pool of well-trained human resource.

The recently concluded training was a collaborative
effort between the Ministry of Tourism and Culture,
Discover Dominica Authority (DDA), Organization of
the American States (OAS) and the Dominica State
College. The courses were offered in succession of
one another over a four (4) week period.

4

DEVELOPING THE
TOURISM PRODUCT

District Grand Master, District Rulers present and past, and members of the District Grand Lodge of Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean
Photo Credit: St. George Lodge

Dominica hosts 328th Communication of the District and conversed all the way into the evening. Over
EC$3,000.00 was raised during the brunch which will
of Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean Conference be donated to various charitable organizations.
Odile Jno Baptiste, Product Promotions Manager, DDA
St. George Lodge thanked Discover Dominica Authority
Dominica was host to the 328th Communication of (DDA) for helping make the 328th Communication
the District of Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean a success beyond expectation. The DDA personnel
Conference from November 8 - 10, 2019. The event stationed at the airport made a highly positive impact
brought over one hundred and fifty (150) freemasons on the visitors who were happy to receive their
and guests from around the Caribbean to the island. welcome bags compliments DDA and Invest Dominica
Authority. The VIP treatment to our visitors was not
The weekend’s events kicked off with a welcome only greatly appreciated but was truly unexpected.
cocktail at the Old Mill Cultural Center. Worthy of note
was the stunning cultural display done by the Point From all reports the visitors left the island with
Mitchel Cultural Group. Guests were captivated by a positive view of Dominica and our Dominican
the exhibition of local song and dance, and some even hospitality, with many promising to return in the near
participated in the cultural renditions. future to further explore what the Nature Isle has to
offer.
On day two, whilst the men attended the official
meetings, over 30 ladies embarked on a tour of the 5
island. This tour included visits to sites such as the
Morne Bruce viewpoint, Trafalgar Falls, Fresh Water
Lake and Bongo Baths.

A brunch at a private residence culminated the event.
Much to the delight of those present, local cuisine
made a spectacular appearance, and guest fraternized

DEVELOPING THE
TOURISM PRODUCT

Sailors join the Karina Cultural Group in dance
Photo Credit: DDA Image Library

KHP Karibik Trophy
Kelly-Ann Williams, Product Development Assistant, DDA

Dominica welcomed 12 yachts carrying 70 sailors for Sailors were in Dominica for 3 nights from November
the 29th Karibik Trophy (Fun-Regatta). The Karibik 18 – 21, and were treated to a welcome party, with
Trophy has long since become a household name entertainment provided by the Karina Cultural Group
amongst sailors. For almost three decades, this event and a local band. They also participated in several land
has been held in various regions of the Caribbean. The and marine activities, and patronized restaurants and
enthusiasm for it is still unbroken and this is evident bars in the Portsmouth and Roseau/ Newtown areas.
by the number of sailors who continue to participate,
repeatedly. This event was facilitated by Eddison Laville, owner
of Eddison Tours and Yachting Services, with support
Karibik Trophy combines sailing in a fascinating from Discover Dominica Authority.
Caribbean island world with an exciting fun regatta
and island activities. It is a sailing event for those who Discover Dominica Authority welcomes these
want to enjoy sun, wind and blue skies in late autumn. opportunities as these events continue to drive
development and promotion of Dominica’s yachting
sector.

6

DEVELOPING THE
TOURISM PRODUCT

GoDominica’s Pilot Project with DDA & the DHTA Some fundamental aspects of the pilot project
Hans Schilders, GoDominica included:

Formed in early 2019, the GoDominica Marketing • An on-site visit to prepare at least one (1) computer
Group is a locally owned and operated cooperative of at chosen accommodation for participation
accommodation providers in Dominica and controlled for installation of Skype, Booking.com listing,
by business/accommodation owners who have FreeToBook PMS (Property Management System),
operated in the Dominican market for over twenty STR subscription, Google-drive activation, and if
years. The promise of the GoDominica.com project applicable Wave financial app.
is to offer potential visitors to our island a simple and
convenient way to find available accommodations, • The GoDominica manual Get More Bookings Online
whilst sustaining local properties and maximizing the and 10 one-hour Skype instruction sessions to guide
benefits of tourism for visitors and the local economy the property through the modules of this training.
alike.
• Up to 3 one-hour coaching sessions in Q&A format
On October 8, 2019 GoDominica in conjunction with (one after every 3 or 4 instructions sessions)
Discover Dominica Authority (DDA) and the Dominica to verify the full implementation of the proven
Hotel & Tourism Association (DHTA) presented at principles of successful online presence.
ACTalks seminar during which the attendees, majority
being local accommodations, were briefed on the At this present time, the five selected properties
various objectives of the GoDominica project; its for the GoDominica pilot project have successfully
aims, progress and relevancy in the development of transitioned from their outdated modes of property
Dominica’s stay-over tourism industry. management to Free-to-Book, an online PMS system
that is highly efficient and is truly one of the most
The success of that seminar instigated GoDominica’s comprehensive online property management systems
pilot project, sponsored by DDA. The 6 - 12-week in the market. Once an accommodation has fully
online program afforded 5 selected properties to integrated all aspects of their property management
receive Property Management Software (PMS) on the Free-to-Book program, they are officially
coaching and training - all free of charge - to digitalize listed on the GoDominica website for direct bookings
their marketing and optimize their online presence in and inquiries, connected with the DDA Book-a-Trip
the global tourism market. webpage and fully integrated with Booking.com.

7

DEVELOPING THE
TOURISM PRODUCT

2019 Blue Element Freediving Competition Competitors at the platform
Cornealia Durand, Product Development Executive, DDA Photo Credit: DDA Image Library

The third edition of the Blue Element freediving Summary of competition statistics:
competition was held in Dominica from November 20-
27, 2019. The freediving depth competition was held in • 130 performances
the warm waters of Soufriere Bay, which offers some
of the best freediving conditions on Earth! No Waves, • 1 world record attempt
No Current and No Depth Limit!
• 3 continental records for North America
This event was organized by Jonathan Sunnex and
Sofia Gomez Uribe, where divers competed in the • 33 National records
Constant Weight (CWT), Constant Weight No Fins
(CNF), Free Immersion (FIM) and Constant Weight • 10 National records for Dominica, with the record
with Bi-Fins disciplines. This event was supported being moved from 23m to 40m over the course
by Discover Dominica Authority, Nature Island Dive, of the competition. The current record holders
Deeper Blue, Suunto, Elios, Octopus, PacSafe and for Dominica include Noah Magloire of Trafalgar
Alchemy, just to name a few. Discover Dominica and Simon Walsh of Soufriere. They were also the
Authority sponsored the competition by meeting the youngest and oldest competitors in the event (17
expenses of the Blue Element competition media team years and 50+)
and provided comprehensive postings via its social
media platforms, having a large reach of over 20,000 Overall winners:
persons throughout the competition.
• Men: Stephane Tourreau (France), Thibault
Overall, there was a total of 27 athletes from 18 Guignes (France), Jihoon Jang (S Korea)
countries including Dominica, Antigua/Barbuda,
Grenada, Colombia, Ecuador, USA, Mexico, Canada, • Women: Alena Konecna (Czech Republic), Sheena
France, UK, Sweden, Croatia, Italy, Czech Republic, McNally (Canada), Helena Bordillon (UK)
Israel, New Zealand, Thailand, and South Korea.
Three Dominicans competed in this event, including Caribbean overall winners:
national record holders, Vivian Titre and Simon Walsh.
They were also joined by newcomer Noah Magloire of • Men: Nicolas Winkler (Grenada), Noah Magloire
Trafalgar. (Dominica), Nik Bohachevski (Antigua/Barbuda)

Over 50 persons visited the island, specifically for this Jonathan Sunnex confirmed that the overall feedback
competition, with some athletes arriving more than from everyone has been very good and expects to have
one month prior to the commencement of the event. as many competitors or more for the Blue Element
This international freediving competition is more than Freediving Competition in 2020.
just a sports event; it is a celebration of life.
8

QUALITY ASSURANCE

Cabrits Resort & Spa Kempinski Dominica -Where Cabrits Resort and Spa Kempinski Dominica
Photo credit: DDA Image Library
nature encounters legendary Kempinski luxury
and beach bar. With both indoor and outdoor seating, the
Europe’s oldest luxury hotel group is proud to bring its rich Rumfire Bar serves as the perfect place to end the day,
heritage of attentive personal service and unparalleled watching the sunset while sipping a drink or enjoying a fine
hospitality to its newest destination in the Americas. The cigar.
long awaited Cabrits Resort & Spa Kempinski Dominica
opened its doors to guests and exclusive clientele on Rounding out the resort’s sensorial experiences is the
October 14, 2019, and is also the newest property to 18,000 sq ft Kempinski The Spa. Guests may select
become certified by Discover Dominica Authority. The from indoor and outdoor wellness experiences, bringing
resort is Kempinski’s second Caribbean venture and themselves closer to nature and creating a connection with
Dominica’s first-ever five-star branded resort. the island’s unique ecosystem. The spa’s comprehensive
menu includes treatments inspired by the local culture and
All of the resort's 151 guestrooms and suites are sense of place.
luxuriously appointed, from deluxe and superior rooms
featuring mountain or ocean views to spacious suites With an exceptional location facing the sunset on Douglas
and two-bedroom duplexes, and villas. Inspired by the Bay beach and a traditional Creole atmosphere, Cabrits
island’s natural beauty, each features a soothing palette of Resort & Spa Kempinski Dominica offers some of the
coastal colours, detailed wood accents and ample natural most unique and awe-inspiring settings for memorable
lighting, bringing the beauty of the outdoors in. Guests will meetings, family reunions and special occasions. The
find all of the modern conveniences of home right at their resort offers more than 8,000 sq ft of indoor and outdoor
fingertips, from flat screen televisions and complimentary event space, including beach, pool and lawn venues,
WiFi service to in-room espresso machines and luxurious for weddings and celebrations as well as three meeting
bath amenities. rooms, a boardroom and an outdoor amphitheatre. The
skilled events team can assist in choosing the perfect
Every detail of the guest experience at Cabrits Resort and venue and menus based on party size and preferences.
Spa Kempinski Dominica has been carefully thought out
to allow guests to feel, smell, see, hear and taste what For reservations or more information,
Dominica has to offer. From a culinary perspective, the please call (767) 445 1000 or visit
resort’s three distinctive restaurants feature both local http://www.kempinski.com/dominica
and international cuisine as well as “farm-to-table” and
“sea-to-table” dining.

The resort’s signature restaurant, Cabrits Market,
provides an ambiance of vibrant colours and flavours
indicative of a Creole market. A variety of interactive buffet
stations include a wide range of international fare from
Italian to barbeque to, of course, a Creole-themed dinner
and opulent brunch. The Kweyol Beach Café takes a
unique spin on the traditional Creole beach bar with an
elevated approach. Offering a tasty mix of Creole dishes,
international favourites and home-made ice cream
flavours such as coconut, this sea view restaurant is a
must-do for every guest. Bonsai serves Pan-Asian cuisine
as an exciting alternative to the resort’s main restaurant

9

QUALITY ASSURANCE

Jungle Bay Eco Villas – reopened June 2019 Jungle Bay
Lise Cuffy, Marketing Executive, DDA Photo credit: DDA Image Library

Jungle Bay re-opened on June 30, 2019 and now Featuring 14 private suites, the spa offers an eclectic
features villas in a new location, overlooking the range of massages, pedicures, foot therapy, manicures
Caribbean Sea. This award-winning adventure and and facials to revitalize the body.
wellness retreat combines cultural experiences, local
organic cuisine, spa pampering and yoga to truly For reservations or more information, please call
rejuvenate guests. Guests have a choice of either a (767) 235 0025 or visit https://rosaliebaydominica.com
villa room or a full villa, each overlooking the marine
sanctuary of Scotts Head and Soufriere. Each villa is
accessed via a private walkway through tropical trees,
banana plants and flowers, leading guests through the
natural oasis to their own hideaway.

With wellness being the focal point of Jungle Bay, daily
yoga classes are open to everyone, with the option to
also book private lessons. The two signature studios
boast rustic stone walls and large windows which
overlook the sea, creating the ideal place to practice.
Another focal point of the resort is the Bamboo Spa.

Rosalie Bay Eco Resort – reopening February 2020 the callings of native songbirds found nowhere else
Lise Cuffy, Marketing Executive, DDA in the Caribbean can once again be heard. Rosalie
Bay guests can enjoy relaxing or strenuous hiking
The Caribbean’s top eco-resort will once again be excursions with their own private guides. Guests can
welcoming nature-loving guests come February 2020. traverse terrain still being formed by geothermal
Rosalie Bay closed after suffering a direct hit from energy, climb trails under the canopy of rainforests,
Hurricane Maria in September 2017. Two years later, summit volcano peaks and take thrilling leaps to the
and now known as the Rosalie Bay Eco-Resort, guests base of waterfalls to cool off. Along 365 rivers, one
will once again be able to enjoy a locally owned and for every day of the year, active travellers can trek 300
operated resort for authentic Nature Island hospitality. miles of trails including the Waitukubuli National Trail
stretching 115 miles from tip to tip of the island.
The grounds and facilities are teeming with on-island
and Caribbean craftsmen. The renovation of the Rosalie Bay is constantly working to offer you the
reception center, restaurant, spa, fitness center, onyx- best value on your getaway to the Nature Island of the
lined pool, special events center and all 28 spacious Caribbean. Begin planning your bucket list vacation
rooms and suites is nearing completion. Next up, today.
refurbishment with locally carved furniture, hand-
stitched soft goods and Creole artwork. For reservations or more information, please call
(767) 446-1010 or visit https://rosaliebaydominica.com
Guests at Rosalie Bay will be offered first-class
eco-experiences. New tropical vegetation enrobes
the Nature Island. Hiking trails are restored, and

10

DESTINATION MARKETING

Dominica Winter Project, Phase Two, At Matador, Rene has become one of their favorite
influencers due to her ability to balance style and
with Matador Network femininity with rugged adventure. It was for this reason
Lise Cuffy, Marketing Executive, DDA we thought Rene would be a natural fit for this project.
With publication set for January 2020, it is our hope
A team of five from Matador Network spent one week that this campaign will influence late winter sales of
on island from November 19 - 26 for the second February – April 2020. The team worked with partners
phase of the Dominica campaign. The campaign will such as Cabrits Resort & Spa Kempinski Dominica,
highlight both the luxury and adventure experiences Secret Bay, Jungle Bay, Extreme Dominica and Dive
of Dominica. Matador’s host Rene Daniella will Dominica. The anchor of the first phase was the “We
seek to highlight the unique stays and adventures Call it Dominica’ video (https://matadornetwork.com/
on the island, and this will be shared on multiple videos/we-call-it-dominica/). This was accompanied
partnered platforms with a social impact of over by a series of posts by an influencer.
a million. Rene is an English / American traveler
from the UK currently based in Washington, DC. Her
unique upbringing has made her an enthusiastic
world traveler and one dedicated to exploring and
highlighting what makes each place she visits special.

Press and Familiarization Trips Presentation to VIP Travel Professionals
Lise Cuffy, Marketing Executive, DDA Photo Credit: DDA Image Library

Joint Market Cabrits Resort & Spa Kempinski

Dominica FAM Trip

Discover Dominica Authority in collaboration with
Cabrits Resort & Spa Kempinski Dominica hosted
a mega FAM trip from November 12 – 16, 2019. The
FAM trip hosted approximately forty-five (45) VIP
Travel Trade Professionals from Europe and North
America comprising of travel agents, tour operators,
product managers and regional airline partners.
Discover Dominica Authority coordinated all on-
island logistics for the group. The group visited major
tourism sites and attractions such as Freshwater
Lake, Titou Gorge, Trafalgar Falls, Red Rock, Indian
River and Toucari Beach. The group also experienced
local entertainment from groups such as the Sisserou
Singer. Another highlight of the Dominica trip was a
panel discussion with regional airline partners LIAT,
Air Antilles and interCaribbean about the way forward
for access to the island.

Continued on page 13

11

DESTINATION MARKETING

USA MARKET • Michael Sidofsky, Photographer at Mindz.eye
Mindz.eye specializes in architecture, travel and
Aquatic Sales lifestyle photography, and has a media reach of
Collaboration continued with US based company 120K+ daily impressions.
Aquatic Sales with the visit of a group of six US dive
shops from October 6 – 11, 2019. This ongoing 8-year • Davindra Ramnarie, Freelance Influencer, from
relationship between Aquatic Sales and Discover Goat Roti Chronicles. Goat Roti Chronicles is a
Dominica Authority has been mutually beneficial with food, travel and lifestyle focused website with a
the increase of sales. media reach of 89,000 website visitors.

Dominica offers great diving experiences as US divers Dominica received a great deal of blog features
are looking for new dive destinations to explore. Each and social coverage from the trip. Furthermore, a
dive shop who visits Dominica through this agreement few people inquired about hotel options, leading to
has the potential to organize individual group dive trips potential bookings.
to Dominica. Operators on this trip were from Aquatic
Sales, Scuba Shack, Dive Georgia, Adventure Locators, UK MARKET
Underwater Unlimited and Southern Divers. Thanks
to partners like Dive Dominica, Nature Island Dive and Inntravel
Fort Young Hotel for hosting the group. Interested in once again featuring Dominica, James
Keane, Product Manager, Inntravel visited Dominica
CANADIAN MARKET from November 18 - 21, 2019. Inntravel is a UK
based tour operator specialising in walking and
Canadian Press Trip cycling holidays. The company features worldwide
Four (4) media influencers visited Dominica from destinations and are always interested in offering new
October 6 -11, 2019 on a group press trip. The and exciting destinations to their clients. The operator
influencers selected were a mixed group with strong provides guided and self-guided holidays offering a
interest in Dominica and with very high and dedicated tailor-made service and taking their customers off
followers, as well as people with a Caribbean the beaten tracks. The other major objective of the
background and ones that focused on different trip was to assess the impact of Hurricane Maria on
communities. Together the group has a combined reach the segments of the Waitukubuli National Trail and
of over 1,000,000 across all social media channels. other walking routes previously included in Inntravel’s
offerings. Inntravel’s clients who purchase the self-
The group included the following: guided option are provided with turn-by-turn directions
for the routes and therefore the operator needed to
• Craig Silva, Travel Writer at Big Daddy Kreativ. actually walk the routes and determine the necessary
Big Daddy Kreativ focuses on travel, food and updates to their instructions.
lifestyle with over 6,000+ unique media reach.
12
• Vernon Chang, Editor-in-Chief and Digital Content
Strategists for Mo Vernie on the Move. Mo Vernie
on the Move is a lifestyle brand that shares stories,
information and content on its various online
platforms, showcasing destinations, events, and
fresh content to its broad groups of demographics
from different ages. Media reach: Blog Site: 58,000
- 62,000 Unique Visit; Twitter: 500,000 impressions/
month; Instagram: 650-1000 impressions/post;
Google Maps: 20Million views per month,

TRADE SHOW &
CONFERENCE REPORTS

26th FCCA Cruise Conference and Tradeshow In an effort to continue aiming for more cruise lines to
Cornealia Durand, Product Development Executive, DDA call to the destination, representatives from Discover
The Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) Dominica Authority (DDA) and Dominica Air & Sea
Cruise Conference and Tradeshow is a four-day Ports Authority (DASPA) participated in the 26th
event designed to foster a better understanding of Annual FCCA Cruise Conference & Trade Show, held
the inner workings of the cruise industry and help in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Representatives networked
attendees improve their cruise tourism business. with cruise executives from various cruise lines such
Through a specialized forum that blends meetings as Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Virgin
and workshops with social functions, attendees have a Voyages, Royal Caribbean International and Norwegian
unique opportunity to develop relations with, promote Cruise Line, just to name a few.
products to, and learn from 100 executives from
FCCA’s Member Lines who decide where ships call, The conference and one-on-one meetings afforded the
what is sold and used onboard and how to invest in destination the opportunity to;
destinations and infrastructure. The event is designed
to foster a better understanding of the inner workings • Negotiate summer calls by Carnival Cruise Lines
of the cruise industry and help attendees improve their for 2021
cruise tourism business.
• Reinforce the destinations readiness for cruise
Dominica's delegation meets with executives from Virgin Voyages visitors
Photo Credit: DDA Image Library
• Provide updates on new and unique tour offerings

• Inform about the Government’s initiative on the
Housing Revolution

• Speak on the opening of two new hotels; Jungle
Bay Eco Villas and Cabrits Resort & Spa Kempinski
Dominica in 2019.

• Provide additional updates on several other
developments that have taken place and are
currently being undertaken on island post
Hurricane Maria

As part of the event, Discover Dominica Authority’s
booth provided the opportunity for persons to learn
more about the destination while being graced with
few local gifts.

The FCCA Cruise Conference and Tradeshow is a
way that Dominica can ensure greater visibility within
the cruise industry as a means of increasing cruise
visitors to the destination.

13

TRADE SHOW & CEO at WTM’s ‘Courting Hollywood’ panel discussion
CONFERENCE REPORTS Photo Credit: The Brighter Group – Finn Partners

World Travel Market 2019
Lise Cuffy, Marketing Executive, DDA

Discover Dominica Authority is enjoying the
celebrations following a successful World Travel
Market in London and has since then returned
to the island with a raft of awards. Director of
Tourism/ CEO, Colin Piper held over 42 meetings
with UK tour operators, travel agents, media
interviews and influencers who were all interested
in hearing more about the island and her recent
influx of visitors throughout 2019. The Director of
Tourism also joined a panel session about ‘Courting
Hollywood’ to attract production companies to
invest in Dominica and film on the island.

Extensive follow up will continue following World
Travel Market to secure additional tour operators
selling holidays to Dominica in 2020 and beyond.

2019 Diving Equipment & Marketing Association Discussion between Nature Island Dive, Jungle Bay Eco Villas and DEMA consumer
Photo Credit: DDA Image Library
(DEMA) Dive Show
Lise Cuffy, Marketing Executive, DDA great feedback from the private sector, the team is all
geared up for additional dive business and participation
Dominica was well represented at the 2019 Diving in DEMA 2020 in New Orleans.
Equipment & Marketing Association (DEMA) Dive Show,
which took place at the Orange County Convention
Center in Orlando, Florida from November 13 - 19, 2019.
Significant involvement and collaboration from the
private sector were very prominent this year; for the
first time there was participation from dive operator
Cabrits Dive and hotelier Jungle Bay Dominica as well
as regular partners Dive Dominica, Fort Young Hotel
and Nature Island Dive. Invest Dominica Authority
was also in attendance for the first time pursuing
new investment opportunities and establishing
relationships. The team met with many dive industry
partners and enthusiasts to keep Dominica at the top of
their minds when planning for 2020 and beyond. With

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TOURISM DATA MANAGEMENT

Y-T-D (October) and World Creole Music Festival
stayover arrivals exceed pre disaster levels
Elizabeth Angol, Marketing Executive, DDA

Dominica’s advanced stage of recovery is evident in
the performance of visitor arrivals recorded for 2019,
to date.

Preliminary data suggests that year to date arrivals as
of October 31, 2019 stood at 75,726. This performance
surpassed corresponding periods in 2018 and 2017 by
52% and 15% respectively, and more significantly 2016
(pre-hurricane) by 14%.

Note: Comparison includes only years in which WCMF was staged. Arrivals via the Roseau Ferry Terminal in October
increased over 2016 by 29%, compensating for the
Total arrivals for the month of October, 10,876, showed shortfalls in air arrivals. Despite air capacity decline
significant increases over corresponding periods in of 15% vs 2016, arrivals via Douglas Charles declined
2018 and 2017 and increased 12% over 2016. Arrivals only 8%. Both ports showed an increase in arrivals
for the WCMF catchment period (7,351) contributed over 2018 and 2017.
significantly to the overall performance in October
accounting for 67% of arrivals. This performance The increase in stayover arrivals was fuelled by a
reflected a 28% increase over corresponding period strong marketing strategy which included various
2018 and a 10% increase over 2016. initiatives in niche product and access offerings,
collaboration with internal and external stakeholders,
and a strong social media presence.

Based on our Y-T-D October performance the
stipulated 2019 full year stayover arrivals target, which
was set at a 10% increase over 2018 or at a minimum
matching 2017 arrivals, has already been surpassed.
If recent trends obtain, we are poised to surpass 2018
stayover visitor target by over 10%.

15

EVENTS & FESTIVALS
WCMF 2019

Romain Virgo Signal Band
Photo Credit: DDA Image Library Photo Credit: DDA Image Library

21st Edition of the World Creole Music Festival The “Three Nights of Pulsating Rhythms” in 2019
Marva Williams, Festival and Events Manager, DDA will long be remembered for the fantastic lineup, the
new and impressive VVIP and PVIP experience, the
Dominica hosted what is being described by festival magnificent and large crowds on all three nights, and
lovers and music aficionados as one of the biggest and the high level of organization and professionalism
best music festivals for the 2019 festival season in the which went into the planning and execution. As the
Caribbean. The 2019 edition of the World Creole Music crowds dispersed from the Windsor Park Sports
Festival was full of energy, high caliber of artistes and Stadium on the morning of Monday, October 28th,
an environment which endeared patrons to the magic making their journey back to their respective villages
of the festival and Dominica as a whole. Known for and communities around Dominica and to their
its riveting and powerful sound, this year’s festival respective home countries in the region and the
attracted record numbers of patrons from across the diaspora, the sentiments expressed suggest that the
region, as well as returning Dominicans. festival is entering a new phase of development, a
new beginning, a new thrust to making this festival
The 2019 edition, full of exciting and dynamic acts, the event for all of our people and countries. After-
provided patrons with three nights of musical magic. all, this festival is a global event hosted by Dominica,
The line-up consisted of several well –known creole to expose to the world its rich musical history and
acts, a large number of local Bouyon and Cadence the vast tapestry of Creole and popular music from
acts, Afro-beat music from Nigeria, Soca music from the Caribbean and the Creole world. Until the next
Antigua, Grenada, St. Lucia and Trinidad, Zouk music edition of the WCMF, where people meet, Dominica
from the French West Indies, Compas music from is fortunate to have given the world its rhythm, its
Haiti and Reggae and Dancehall from the heartland of hospitality, its stunning beauty and its amazing talent.
reggae music, Jamaica, in one of the most memorable We look forward to welcoming you in 2020 for another
festivals ever. edition of the World Creole Music Festival.

16

EVENTS & FESTIVALS

National Carnival Queen Pageant 2020 Contestants
Presented here are brief biographies of the seven ladies vying for the title of Miss Dominica 2020.

Elnarrah Emmanuel Primrose Angel David Kimra Charles Melanie Charles

Elnarrah is 20 years Primrose is 25 years Kimra is 22 years old Melanie is 22 years
old and represents the old and represents the and represents the old and represents the
community of Kingshill. community of Massacre. community of Fond community of Goodwill.
She is currently an Office She is currently a Clerical Cole. She is currently She is currently a
Administrator at Dr. Officer/ Computer an Account Receivable Customer Service
Green Dental Care. Operator in the Ministry of Officer at H H V Executive at Clear Harbor.
Justice, Immigration and Whitchurch & Co. Ltd.
National Security.

Savahnn James Kadisha Joseph Shannon Connor St.

Savahnn is 20 years old Kadisha is 24 years Hilaire
and represents the city old and represents the Shannon is 22 years
of Roseau. She holds community of Fond old and represents the
a BS in Environmental Cole. She is currently village of Soufriere. She is
Engineering and is a Customer Service sponsored by Jungle Bay
currently a Teller Executive at Clear Harbor. Eco Villas and is currently
at National Bank of a Freelance Consultant in
Dominica. web development. Photo Credits: DDA Image Library

17

LOOKING AHEAD

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DOMINICA TOURISM
AUTHORITY OFFICES

Headquarters Bayfront Tourism Cabrits Tourism Douglas-Charles Airport
Ground and First Floors Information Office Information Booth Information Office
Marpin House Old Market Plaza, Cabrits National Park, Marigot, Dominica
5-7 Great Marlborough St. Roseau, Dominica Portsmouth, Dominica
P.O. Box 293 Tel (+1-767) 445-7051
Roseau, Dominica Tel (+1-767) 255-8320 Tel (+1-767) 255-8212 255-8202

Tel (+1-767) 448-2045
Fax (+1-767) 448-5840
[email protected]

ACCESS MORE DDA NEWS

DiscoverDominica.com

/discoverdominica
/dominicaupdate
/nature_island
/discoverdominica

Tourism Update is provided bimonthly to give
you a comprehensive review of the latest
news in the industry. We’d love to hear from
you! If you have comments, please send
them to [email protected].

DISCLAIMER: Tourism Update, Copyright © 2019 by the
Discover Dominica Authority (DDA). All rights reserved.
It is not permissible to reproduce, reprint or represent
any of the material contained in Tourism Update, in
whole or in part, electronically or otherwise without the
written consent of the DDA.

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