COVER STORY
TRINIDAD & TOBAGO
Trinidad and Tobago is known to be the largest oil and natural gas producer in the Caribbean and also the wealthiest Caribbean island . What is Trinidad and Tobago ’ s tourism brand ? Destination Trinidad and Tobago has been traditionally positioned as the islands of contrast ; Tobago ’ s serene environment and country of pleasure , and Trinidad with a more animated , exuberant personality . Together , Trinidad and Tobago has a historic dependence on the energy sector . The largesse that oil and gas has earned over the years has contributed to the development and the sophistication of the country .
Port of Spain , the capital of our country , has much in common with capital cities all over the world . Being energy-based and dependent has impacted the direction in which our tourism industry has evolved and is evolving . Promoting the tourism industry is a viable alternative to other exports that might be dwindling like the oil-based industry .
Having endured the weaknesses of the energy sector throughout these times of diminished energy revenue , the thrust towards the development of the tourism sector is an economically viable solution that is expected to yield high returns . The tourism industry is a major aspect of the Government of Trinidad and Tobago ’ s strategy to diversify the economy from a heavy dependence on the petroleum and natural gas industry . Tourism , for Trinidad and Tobago , can be seen as the new oil . We have many assets that underpin our brand . We present ourselves as one destination , two islands . Energetic Trinidad and Tranquil Tobago .
Our appeal lies in our renowned annual festivals , unique traditions and robust Meetings and Conventions Sector . Destination Trinidad and Tobago is a mosaic of our Caribbean neighbours , and what gives Trinidad and Tobago a competitive edge is the range of activities , sites and attractions in one geographical space . That ’ s what makes our destination so special !
What are the main pillars of Trinidad and Tobago ’ s tourism industry ? Tourism is a dynamic system . Our tourism thrust is hinged upon all socio-economic endeavours that can be enhanced by the timely execution of strategies that capitalize on opportunities . Our foundation lies in Policy , Sustainability , Education , and Research and Development , which play key roles in the expansion our destination ’ s profile . Our government intends to lead the way by further developing tourism-friendly policies , infrastructure , and institutional arrangements that will stimulate private investment and growth of the sector .
Regionally , private sector partnerships with the government have been the catalyst for the development of tourism in other Caribbean destinations . The same model can successfully be applied here . With this in mind , we intend to continue to engage the experience and innovative ideas of the entrepreneurial community with a view to maximizing our returns on tourism investment .
Additionally , we will continue to create uniquely differentiated and internationally competitive products , fully functional physical infrastructure and of course continue to educate and enhance the skills set of our tourism Ambassadors - the People of Trinidad and Tobago .
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