Caribbean excursions specialist Island Routes Adventure Tours is adding more tours based on experiencing local culture to meet demand from all-inclusive holidaymakers.
The Sandals sister company, which enjoyed a 31% hike in tour sales in the first quarter of this year, said it was responding to feedback from customers for a more diverse range of excursions to lesser-known sights.
Two tours have been added in Jamaica, including a trip to the capital Kingston, where few tourists go because of its perceived unsafe reputation, and a nightime zip-line ride in Saint Lucia. Further new tours are planned this summer.
General manager David Shields said: “Holidaymakers don’t just want the beach and the hotel; they are travelling to experience the communities and want to be more adventurous.”
He added: “Outside of Jamaica, Kingston has a reputation for all the wrong reasons so few tourists go there. Those who do are rewarded with one of the most fantastic cities in the world.”
Traditionally, all-inclusive guests spent most of their time in their resort, according to Shields.
Island Routes, which primarily sells tours through Sandals Resorts, was set up two years ago and now offers more than 140 tours in five countries. Agents can book for Sandals and non-Sandals guests.