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Saint Lucia expands trade partnerships to accelerate tourism growth

Wednesday, 7 March 20183 min read

Building on a record year for tourism in 2017, Saint Lucia is aiming to extend its marketing reach and visibility in the US market.

The Saint Lucia Tourism Authority has tapped a number of US travel industry partners to do just that.

Strategic partnerships have been struck with Virtuoso Travel Network, Cruise Planners, Costco Travel and Cruise 360 to boost awareness and grow sales volume.

"As we grow, the importance of creating an inclusive tourism product that maintains a balance between the economy, society and the environment remains at the forefront of our efforts," said SLTA chair Agnes Francis.

"With the changing landscapes in modern tourism, we must act swiftly and decisively to ensure healthy and sustainable development for Saint Lucia Tourism."

The SLTA has joined hands with Virtuoso to become a Virtuoso Travel Network Partner and is launching a Cruise Planners Training and Marketing Program, offering marketing and training, and webinars for more than 1,800 franchisee-owned travel agencies.

The destination will also get access to the 17 million-strong customer database of Costco and a destination feature in April’s edition of Costco Connection magazine.

Saint Lucia Tourism Authority also announced it has become a Cruise 360 sponsor and will host a dedicated destination workshop during the April 17- 23 event.