Stayover and Cruise Tourism seminar
Back on dry land, LC’s Class of ’23 toured the Cayman Turtle Education and Conservation Centre which is Cayman’s premier land-based attraction. They saw the turtle hatchery, and the Genesis Pond, where huge turtles breed and lay their eggs. The Centre began as a turtle farm, and then made the transition into a fully-fledged tourist attraction in the early 2000’s adding new features such as a big artificial lagoon where tourists can snorkel next to turtles and fish, a predator tank, and a large aviary full of beautiful birds. The class also saw the Nature Trail, full of indigenous trees and plants.
The objective for this seminar was to provide information and education on the various aspects of tourism in the Cayman Islands, including the culture, history, attractions, and activities available for visitors. This seminar also aimed to promote the Cayman Islands as a destination for tourism and to generate interest among potential travelers.
After a very enjoyable dinner at Schooner’s Bar and Grill, the class were introduced to the guest speakers. Christopher Jackson, acting CEO of the Turtle Centre; Hon Kenneth Bryan - Minister for Tourism and Ports, and Chairman of the Caribbean Tourism Organization; Troy Leacock who is owner/manager of Crazy Crab Private Boat Charters and co-owner of VIVO Restaurant; and Marc Langevin, General Manager of the Ritz Carlton hotel, Grand Cayman.
The breakout sessions provided a good overview of Cayman’s tourism industry, and gave class members plenty of insight into trends, challenges and opportunities within the sector. It highlighted the unique features of Cayman as a tourist destination, such as beautiful beaches, marine life, eclectic cuisine, and its friendly and unique culture. The session ended with a fun-and-informal debrief at the Macabuca Bar & Grill, just a short walk up the road.