Tourist Board promotes BVI across South Florida

The BVI Tourist Board (BVITB) has sailed to South Florida in the United States to participate in four international events.

The tourist board first made an appearance at the Miami Yacht Show last month.

They then moved on to Food Network & Cooking Channel South Beach Wine and Food Festival (SOBEWFF), then to the Seatrade Cruise Global in Fort Lauderdale.

They will finish their rounds in South Florida at the Miami Open later this month.

According to Director of Tourism Sharon Flax-Brutus, the move is part of the Board’s ‘aggressive North American campaign’ to promote the BVI’s tourism product.

“Having high visibility in the marketplace confirms that we are ready to welcome both our loyal repeat guests, as well as new ones,” said Flax-Brutus in a media release about the campaign.

Miami Yacht Show

The Tourist Board said the BVI was able to leverage its reputation as the ‘sailing capital of it world when it exhibited at the annual Miami Yacht Show from February 15 to 19.

The Board made an exhibition with local marine partners such as the Virgin Gorda Yacht Harbour, Bitter End Yacht Club, YCCS, and Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina.

“Together they delivered the message that the BVI is still sailing; communicating the impressive recovery of the territory and its tourism industry,” the Board said.

SOBEWFF

During the SOBEWFF held from February 21 to 25, the BVI was able to showcase its culinary offerings to the more than 65,000 attendees at the event.

Attendees included culinary experts, food and beverage professionals, and food connoisseurs.

Seatrade Cruise Global

The Seatrade Cruise global, which was held from March 5 to 8, was the BVI’s third stop in its North American campaign.

Communications and Works Minister Mark Vanterpool led a local delegation to participate in the three-day event.

The said delegation comprised representatives from Tortola Pier Park, BVI Ports Authority, and private cruise sector partners.

Miami Open

Last on the Board’s sailing agenda is the Miami Open scheduled for March 19 to 26.

“Given the success of last year’s participation, the BVITB has returned as the exclusive Caribbean Destination Sponsor, and will be using a number of avenues to promote the territory at this event,” the Board said.

“An exhibition booth, branded speed serve cage, hospitality suite, and targeted branding at major events are some of the avenues the territory will utilize for promotional exposure. Additionally, there will be prize giveaways at centre court during major matches,” it added.

The BVITB also said it will be partnering with Miami-based ride-sharing company Freebee to sponsor rides to select visitors to the downtown Miami and Brickell areas in BVI-branded Freebee vehicles.

The Board will also engage in sales calls to top travel agents in the South Florida area.