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British Virgin Islands Records Successful Participation at 42nd CHTA Marketplace

Published

11 months ago

June 5, 2024

Editor

A small contingent from the British Virgin Islands (BVI) tourism sector celebrated a successful attendance at the 42nd Caribbean Hotel & Tourism Association (CHTA) Marketplace, held in Montego Bay, Jamaica from May 20 to 23.

The BVI delegation, comprising key members of the British Virgin Islands Tourist Board & Film Commission (BVITBFC), the British Virgin Islands Yachting, Hotel & Tourism Association (BVIYHTA), and other prominent tourism industry partners, engaged in fruitful discussions and networking activities throughout the event.

The BVI contingent included Clive McCoy, Director of Tourism; Shonda Maduro, Business Development Manager (Northeast); Keith Dawson, Public Relations Manager from BVITBFC; Sally-Ann Riley, Secretary of BVIYHTA; Nancy Williams, Director of Sales, Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina; and Marike Friends-Fifield, Director of Sales, Peter Island Resort. This dedicated team met with over 100 delegates, delivering presentations on the BVI as a premier destination, and provided updates to both new and existing buyers, as well as the media, on the latest tourism developments in the Territory.

“CHTA Marketplace is a crucial event for connecting with new buyers, updating our established partners on BVI tourism, and collaborating with Caribbean tourism colleagues to tackle common regional challenges,” said Clive McCoy, Director of Tourism. “We were also pleased to have representation from Peter Island Resort who were able to share the exciting news of the resort’s imminent return in the fourth quarter of this year,” the Director added.

The CHTA Marketplace, renowned as the Caribbean’s premier tourism marketing event, attracted over 1,200 delegates from 50 countries, facilitating 1,274 appointments between buyers and suppliers. Participants included tourist boards, hotels, airlines, tour operators, travel wholesalers, travel consortia, hotel and tourism associations, property management companies, and media. This year saw notable participation from non-traditional markets such as Latin America, Eastern Europe, and Asia, alongside the traditional markets.

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Leatherback Nesting Season Commences in BVI: Conservationists Seek Community Support

Published

2 days ago

April 19, 2025

Editor

As the leatherback sea turtle nesting season begins across the Caribbean, the British Virgin Islands (BVI) are preparing for potential nesting activity. While sightings have been reported in neighboring regions, no nests have been documented in the BVI yet. The Association of Reef Keepers (ARK), a local non-profit dedicated to marine conservation, is urging residents and visitors to report any turtle tracks or nesting activity promptly. Early detection is crucial, especially if nests are located in vulnerable areas where eggs may need to be relocated to ensure their survival.

ARK currently monitors six turtle “hot spots” throughout the Territory but emphasises the importance of extending efforts for effective sea turtle conservation management. Community involvement is vital, and volunteers are encouraged to participate in nightly beach patrols, assisting in the tagging and monitoring of nesting turtles. Such efforts contribute to a better understanding of the local turtle population and inform strategies to protect these ancient mariners.

Historically, the BVI has seen a decline in leatherback nesting. By the late 1990s, the nesting leatherback population had decreased to less than ten per season, a stark contrast to the 1920s when up to six turtles nested per night. However, by 2001, nesting activity had shown signs of increase. Continued monitoring and conservation efforts are essential to support this trend.

The BVI government has also taken steps to protect sea turtles. The harvesting of turtle eggs is strictly prohibited, and residents are reminded that such practices are unlawful and detrimental to turtle conservation. Efforts are underway to develop a sea turtle recovery action plan that safeguards turtles and their habitats for future generations.

For more information or to report turtle sightings, please contact the Association of Reef Keepers (ARK) through their official website or social media channels.

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Another Section of Threlfalls Collapses, Prompting Safety Concerns

Published

2 days ago

April 18, 2025

Editor

A new section of the Threlfalls road collapsed earlier today, April 18, raising renewed safety concerns among local residents and commuters. While no injuries have been reported, the incident has intensified scrutiny over the ongoing structural stability of the area.

Residents have expressed concern that today’s rainfall may have played a role in triggering the latest collapse.

“We are more worried now as we may soon be unable to traverse this road altogether,” one resident said. “I am worried about accessing my home.”

This is not the first time Threadfall road has been compromised. Another section of the roadway eroded in September 2024 following a period of intense rainfall. The Department of Public Works had subsequently conducted limited repairs, rendering that portion somewhat passable. However, long-standing issues persist.

The road has suffered extensive damage over the years, particularly following the passage of the hurricanes in 2017, which left critical parts of the route severely weakened.

Authorities have yet to release an official statement regarding the cause of today’s collapse. In the meantime, JTV is actively monitoring the situation and will provide updates as more information becomes available.

Motorists and pedestrians are strongly advised to exercise caution and avoid the area if possible.

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Alcohol Sales Now Permitted After 6 P.M. on Good Friday

Published

2 days ago

April 18, 2025

Editor

The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) have amended earlier Good Friday restrictions, now allowing businesses to open and serve alcohol beginning at 6:00 p.m. this evening, Friday, April 18th.

The initial guidance, which called for full-day closures and a pause on alcohol service out of respect for the religious observance, drew mixed reactions from residents and business owners alike. Officials announced the revision early Friday afternoon, stating the decision reflects a balance between honoring tradition and supporting the city’s vibrant hospitality sector.

Regular business operations are set to resume as normal starting Saturday, April 19.