Prime Minister Dr. Kenny D. Anthony announced that improvements include offering speedier service to private jet and high-end customers, and the development of new hotels such as Freedom Bay in 2016.

The fourth edition of the Saint Lucia UK Showcase and the 21st Gala Awards took place last week at the Luton Hoo Hotel, Bedfordshire, England.

The event welcomed guest of honor Dr. Kenny D. Anthony, Prime Minister of Saint Lucia, who thanked the UK travel trade for its support and commitment to the island.

“You believe in the Saint Lucia product and have confidence in selling holidays to the island,’ he said. “Without that confidence, we would not be where we are today with year-on-year growth in UK arrivals.”

Anthony also addressed plans for the tourism sector.

“We have not abandoned our plans for the airport in the south, and have invited a private operator to develop and operate the airport. Other plans include updating the arrivals and departure services, while offering speedier service to private jet and high-end customers. We are also investing $300 million in hotel development. Along with the development of new hotels such as Freedom Bay in 2016, many hotels will expand and upgrade their facilities so that we can improve our product offering.”

Louis Lewis, Director of Tourism at the Saint Lucia Tourist Board said that the Saint Lucia UK showcase should be used as an opportunity to cement longstanding relationships and develop new ones.

“Saint Lucia has experienced an 8 percent increase in UK visitor arrivals from January to July 2014, when compared to 2013,” he said. “The UK is a thriving market for Saint Lucia and we believe in the importance of hosting Showcase year-on-year.”

Over a period of two days, the Saint Lucia Tourist Board, island hotels, destination management companies and airlines had the opportunity to meet and conduct business with 54 key UK tour operators. Attendees arranged pre-scheduled meetings to discuss contracts, rates and develop long standing relationships.

The Saint Lucia Gala Awards also took place on Thursday, Sep. 11.