(June 12, 2020) Travel Advisors Selling the Caribbean (TASTC) continued the on-line celebration of Caribbean American Heritage Month with a Virtual Beach Party for members and their clients on Thursday June 11th. As many Caribbean destinations prepare to reopen their borders for business, the private Facebook group mobilized to celebrate the resilience of the region, increase awareness about the diverse product and showcase the beauty of the islands.
Hundreds of on-line guests logged on via Zoom to participate in this event that was headlined by R & B singer Kathy Sledge of the group Sister Sledge. Before performing her hit song ‘We Are Family,’ she reminded the audience that “the Caribbean was one of the most beautiful regions in the world and that despite the global pandemic we have so much to be grateful for, because travel delayed does not mean that travel is denied.“ Sledge ended by stating, “If you love the Caribbean, we are family.”
Chairman of the Caribbean Tourism Organization and Minister of Tourism for St. Lucia, Hon. Dominique Fedee also greeted the on-line guests. Against the backdrop of the majestic Pigeon Point Beach, Minister Fedee brought warm greetings. “The Caribbean is one of the most tourism-dependent regions in the world and our economy has been hit hard by this pandemic. But we thank you for your continued support as we prepare to reopen our borders to welcome you and your clients once again.”
The evening’s entertainment included a mixologist, live DJ and many prize giveaways. An online auction featuring bespoke travel experiences was also launched. Designed to benefit the CTO Foundation’s educational programs, the proceeds will help nurture the next generation of hospitality leaders.
TASTC also announced two upcoming webinars and the Caribbean Celebrity Chefs Week as the final events that will round out the month-long celebrations.
“Caribbean Romance: Love Will Not be Cancelled” featuring LA Wedding & Event Planner Eddie Zaratsian and an expert team of wedding specialists on June 15th 1:00pm – 2:30pm.
– “Culinary Tourism: The Secret Sauce in Selling the Caribbean” featuring Chef Maneet Chauhan of Food Network’s “Chopped” and a panel of celebrity tastemakers on June 23rd 1:00pm – 2:30pm
– Celebrity Chefs Week June 22 – 27 featuring 30-minute demonstrations by Caribbean Chefs.
Founder & Senior Administrator of the TASTC Kelly Fontenelle-Clarke indicated, “It has been an exciting week of celebrations, with a good balance of work and play activities. We want to ensure that our valued travel advisors have all of the education and tools to rebuild their businesses and to bounce back stronger, both personally and professionally.”
