THECAYMANIslands Department of Tourism has expanded its privilege-card scheme in anticipation of an increase in UK visitors this year.
The free cards give tourists discounts of up to 25% at restaurants, shops, attractions and car-hire companies. They are distributed to holidaymakers through UK tour operators.
The CIDT produced 3,000 cards last year, when the scheme was first launched, but it is planning to issue nearly 3,400 this year.
The expansion is in line with a forecasted 12% increase in UK visitor numbers to 28,000 in 1999, according to a CIDT spokeswoman. In the first two months of this year, the islands received 2,000 UK visitors – 18% more than in 1998.
“The Cayman Islands are perceived as an expensive destination. The idea of the cards is to offer people who go there added value,” added the spokeswoman.
The CIDT believes demand for the Cayman Islands is rising because tour operators have expanded their product base to include options like villa accommodation and diving holidays. A total of 26 tour operators currently feature the destination.
The introduction of a training scheme for agents has also driven demand.
Their contact details are sent to members of the public who request information about the destination.
n Agents can obtain details about the free privilege cards by calling 0171-491 7771.