Visitors from the UK have helped Saint Lucia to report that March was its highest arrivals month since tourists returned to the island after the hiatus of the pandemic.
There were more than 32,000 stay-over visitors to the Caribbean destination last month, up 21% on the predicted figure, and there have been almost 81,000 arrivals in the first three months of 2022.
The US accounts for 56% of the stay-over arrivals so far this year, with about 45,400 visitors.
The second largest market, the UK, accounts for 30% of stay-over arrivals at almost 24,500, the highest share recorded for this market, even pre-pandemic.
Lorine Charles-St Jules (pictured), chief executive of the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority, said the tourist board will run a targeted marketing campaign for the summer months “to keep the momentum going”.
“The revitalisation of Lucian Carnival is one of our priority events this year and we will continue to promote our strong niche offerings such as romance, diving, accommodations and adventure with some exciting plans for the rest of the year,” she said.
Tourism minister Ernest Hilaire added: “The numbers are really encouraging and a testament to the people who work tirelessly in the tourism industry in Saint Lucia.
“Our aim is to ensure that the growth trajectory is sustainable and benefits our people through employment and income generation as well as providing the best experience for our visitors.”
Saint Lucia has recently eased its entry requirements. Fully vaccinated visitors and returning nationals no longer need any pre-entry Covid-19 testing and the online registration process has been removed for all.
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