Local News
Premier Unveils Strategy to Boost Visitor Numbers
Premier the Hon Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley and Minister of Tourism outlined a clear vision for tourism in the Virgin Islands during a recent press conference, emphasising plans to increase both tourist arrivals and the quality of visitor experiences.
“Our vision for tourism is clear. We aim to increase the number of tourists visiting the Virgin Islands and enhance the quality of their experiences,” said Premier Wheatley, highlighting the significant achievements in tourism over the past year. “Last year, we welcomed 994,253 visitors, the second-highest arrival numbers in our history, despite ongoing recovery efforts from hurricanes.”
Minister of Tourism echoed this sentiment, emphasising the need for targeted initiatives to attract visitors during traditionally slow months. “Diversifying our tourism product is key to boosting visitor numbers,” Minister Wheatley stated, citing successful events such as the BVI Arbitration Week and sports tournaments as examples of initiatives driving tourism growth.
One of the key strategies outlined by Premier Wheatley is the focus on entertainment tourism. “Events like music festivals have proven to be effective in increasing visitor numbers and enhancing visitor experiences,” Premier Wheatley explained. “We are committed to hosting multiple musical events throughout the year to add value to our tourism offerings.”
Minister of Tourism stressed the importance of collaboration between the government and private sector in organising successful events. “We are proud to partner with private indviduals and organisations to host events like the upcoming music festival,” Minister Wheatley said. “When these events are successful, we all benefit.”
In closing, Premier Wheatley expressed appreciation for the dedicated team working to improve the tourism product in the Virgin Islands. “We are confident that our efforts will yield positive results and further strengthen the tourism industry in the Virgin Islands,” Premier Wheatley concluded.
Local News
Governor’s Office Delivers Trauma Risk Management Training to Frontline Officers in Virgin Islands
The Governor’s Office, with support from the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office, this week delivered Trauma Risk Management (TRiM) training to frontline officers in the Virgin Islands, including members of the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force, prison officers and volunteers from Virgin Islands Search and Rescue (VISAR).
The program is designed to help first responders recognize and manage the psychological effects of traumatic incidents encountered in the course of their duties. Participants received instruction on identifying early signs of stress-related responses and providing peer support following critical events.
According to the Governor’s Office, the training forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen welfare and resilience within frontline services across the territory.
“By strengthening welfare and resilience within our front line services, we are ensuring that the people who protect us are supported themselves,” the Governor’s Office said in a statement.
Officials thanked participants for their involvement and acknowledged the trainer for leading the sessions.
Trauma Risk Management, commonly known as TRiM, is a peer-support process used in emergency services and military settings to assess and address the mental health impact of traumatic exposure.
Maya Marcellin, Teen Universe British Virgin Islands, departed the territory on Feb. 22 for Nicaragua, where she will compete in the Teen Universe International Pageant.
Marcellin left the British Virgin Islands on Sunday accompanied by family members and supporters as she begins representing the territory in the international competition. The pageant will bring together contestants from several countries to compete in preliminary events leading up to the final show.
Supporters gathered prior to her departure to offer encouragement as she travels to Nicaragua to represent the British Virgin Islands on the international stage.
Governor’s Office Delivers Trauma Risk Management Training to Frontline Officers in Virgin Islands
Maya Marcellin Departs for Teen Universe International Pageant in Nicaragua
Andrea Wilson brings Caribbean colour to the NYFW debut
