Economic benefits of Royal visit pre-determined

Tourists at Port Zante line to meet the Royal Couple

Basseterre, St. Kitts, March 08, 2012 (SKNIS): The economic benefits of the Royal Visit of the Earl and Countess of Wessex is not fully known but every effort was made to ensure that it impacted tourism positively.

A spokesperson from the Organizing Committee noted that the activities scheduled to mark the day included strategic activities geared at bringing exposure to local enterprise.

The actual welcome ceremony for Prince Edward and Countess Sophie was deliberately held at Port Zante to ensure the interaction and involvement of tourists who were undoubtedly eager to catch a glimpse of the Royal Couple.

There were two cruise ships in port that day and several visitors could be heard expressing their pleasure at having seen and even having the opportunity to meet Prince Edward.

Locally based artist Barbara Kassab submitted two of her paintings for presentation to the Royals in appreciation for their visit, calling international attention to the level of artistic talent available in the Federation. Ms. Kassab’s work though internationally recognized, admired and in many cases sought after, was chosen because they have been branded as authentically Kittitian. Prince Edward was audibly expressive upon receipt of the lovely paintings.

Tourists at Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park meet the Royal Couple

The Carambola fine dining establishment, venue of the State Dinner, was transformed for the event. Proprietor Arthur Sharpe explained that his already highly trained staff had been given additional protocol preparation and were given high commendations by persons attending the event. Mr. Sharpe said this only served to raise morale among his staff and to bring them to the realization that once they had been well prepared, they could rise to any occasion.

The renaming of the Royal Basseterre Valley Park was an additional tourism related event, given plans for its future development as a preserve and recreational area for locals and tourists alike.

Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park bustled with excitement on the occasion of the Royal Visit, when a slew of eager camera touting tourists mulled about in anticipation of the arrival of the Royal Couple, “milking” taxi drivers and media personnel alike for the sordid details of the visit and the significance of the Royals to the Federation.

An official expressed pleasure with the events and congratulated all who contributed to the planning and execution of the activities.