The Week at the SLHTA, August 8th, 2014

Friday, August 8th, 2014  
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In This Week’s Edition
Saint Lucian Chef to Compete in Iron Chef Competition in Canada
Early Registration Opens Aug. 12 For Caribbean Travel Marketplace 2015 At The Puerto Rico Convention
SLHTA Football
Conflict Resolution Workshop
Saint Lucia Dave Headley among many Other Caribbean Nationals Receive Scholarship from CTO
Castries Comprehensive plus many other Institutions benefit from SLHTA’s Tourism Enhancement Fund
Kai Manje restaurant recognized by Wine Spectator, recipient of the 2014 ‘Award of Excellence’
Travel & Leisure Reader’s vote Cap Maison as the second, Best Hotel in the Caribbean
Blue Diamond Resorts acquires Smuggler’s Cove Resort & Spa in St Lucia
Culinary Ambassador is focal point for Chocolate Heritage Month
Leona Constable Captures World Miss Tourism Pageant
NCPC Set To Hold Productivity Awareness Week in October 2014
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Saint Lucian Iron Chef Competitor in Canada

 

On Saturday, August 16th, 2014, Chef Shorne will represent the paradise island of St. Lucia at the11th International Iron Chef Competition in Toronto, Canada.

The International Iron Chef Competition sizzles at Hot & Spicy once more, featuring renowned judges Elizabeth Baird, Donna Dooher and Tawfik Shehata, and hosted by Iron Chef America’s Kevin Brauch.

 

Chef Shorne Benjamin’s passion for cooking developed while growing up as a boy in his grandmother’s kitchen on the beautiful Caribbean island of Saint Lucia.

He vividly remembers the way she mixed spices and herbs to create delicious meals that permeated throughout the house. Before long, Chef Shorne was using the customary Saint Lucian Sunday dinner for friends and family, as a platform to showcase his talent and creativity. He found joy in cooking for many people with diverse tastes and culinary preferences, so he’d often experiment with various dishes, spices, tastes and textures.

From this, he developed his flair for conceptual cooking and Caribbean-inspired fusions with international cuisine – a signature culinary art form he calls – New Age Caribbean. Chef Shorne has since worked alongside renowned Master Chef Jean George at the popular ABC Restaurant, NYC; alongside James Jermyn at the award-winning restaurant Maloney & Porcelli and at the well-known Lower East Side NYC contemporary restaurant Falai. Chef Shorne believes that food is art, colour, flavor, texture….Read More Here

Early Registration OpensAug. 12 For Caribbean Travel Marketplace 2015 At The Puerto Rico Convention Center

 

Early bird registration for Caribbean Travel Marketplace will open Aug. 12. Members are advised to keep a look-out for an email notification which will provide a link to early registration on this date. The region’s largest and most important marketing event will be held Jan. 28-30, 2015 at the Puerto Rico Convention Center in San Juan.

 

Early bird supplier registration packages start at $1,339 for a small booth with one delegate and schedule, $2,568 for a large booth with two delegates and two schedules, and $2868 for a mega booth with two delegates and two schedules. Hotels with 75 rooms or less and attractions can take advantage of the shared booth option at $939, which includes one delegate and one schedule. These fees are available until Sept. 4.

Caribbean Travel Marketplace is organized by CHTA, the Puerto Rico Destination Team, comprised of the Puerto Rico Hotel & Tourism Association (PRHTA), the Puerto Rico Tourism Company (PRTC) and Meet Puerto Rico along with Host Sponsors and Strategic Partners Interval International, MasterCard and TravelZoo.

 

Full event details can be accessedhere. Companies interested in sponsoring Caribbean Travel Marketplace should email  Deborah Sas or call 305-443-3040.

SLHTA Football

The SLHTA Football competition continued on Wednesday with a match between St James Club Morgan Bay and The Body Holiday Le Sport. Philip Ishmael of Le Sport scored the first goal for him team in the first half while Kenson Duncan of Morgan Bay presented an equalizer soon after. In the second round Morgan Bay rose to the occasion with two extra goals from Elisha Cox, awarding them their first victory in the SLHTA competition.

In the south, on Monday 4th August games were played between Anse Chastanet Hotel and Coconut Bay Beach Resort. The games were held at La Fargue playing field. Coconut Bay Beach Resort defeated Anse Chastanet 2-0.

The games will continue on Monday if the weather holds up. Congratulations to the winning teams thus far.

Conflict Resolution Workshop

This Conflict Resolution workshop aims to teach individuals and organizations skills for interpersonal disputes without the aid of a third party neutral.

This training focuses on the skills designed to assist individuals to negotiate their own disputes.Participants learn both how to negotiate with others to create more durable and meaningful resolutions, and how to more effectively communicate with others in order to decrease instances of disputes themselves.

Topics Covered Include:

  • Understand root causes ofconflict
  • Learn causes of conflict between individuals
  • Improving listening skills and communication
  • Deal with difficult people and difficult situations
  • Conflict resolution skills
  • Handling Conflicts Effectively
  • Managing Conflict
  • Understanding root causes of conflict

Wednesday

August 20th, 2014
9:00 am – 4:00 pm

GAMA Learning Institute

Cnr. Maurice Mason Ave. & L’anse Rd.

Castries, Saint Lucia

Tel: 758-453-7719 | 758-285-6719

Saint Lucia Dave Headley among many Other Caribbean Nationals Receive Scholarship from CTO

 

A dozen Caribbean nationals have been awarded scholarships and grants to the tune of US$45,000 to pursue studies in hospitality, tourism and language training.

 

Over eighty applications were received by the CTO Foundation, the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s scholarship programme, and following a thorough analysis of the applications, six scholarships and six grants were awarded.

 

“All of these individuals who demonstrated high levels of achievement and leadership both within and outside of the classroom,” said Jacqueline Johnson, chairman of the board of directors of the CTO Foundation.

 

The many award winners include fellow St Lucian among others:

 

Dave Headley, St. Lucia, MSc. Tourism Management (Online), Colorado State University

Nikisha Rabess, Dominica, MSc. Tourism Marketing, University of Surrey

 

Keisha Springer, Barbados, MSc. Tourism & Events Management, University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus…Read More

Castries Comprehensive plus many other Institutions benefit from 

SLHTA’s Tourism Enhancement Fund

In addition to disbursing over EC$300,000.00 towards community based projects over the past six months, the Tourism Enhancement Fund made its biggest pay-out on Wednesday 6th August, 2014 with four organizations benefiting collectively from over EC$650,000.

 

These organizations include the Castries Comprehensive Secondary School, the Ministry of Social Transformation, the Saint Lucia Tourist Board and the Ministry of Agriculture.

 

Launched in October 2013, the Tourism Enhancement Fund has netted more than EC$1.35 million due to the coming together of several hotels. The Saint Lucia Hotel and Tourism Association (SLHTA), which manages the fund, has announced plans to aid product development, marketing and airlift across the local tourism sector.  The TEF is the brainchild of SLHTA’s President Karolin Troubetzkoy.

 

Mrs. Troubetzkoy says the fund is proud to offer letters of commitment to the four worthy ventures.

 

“We’re very pleased and encouraged by the level of contribution we have seen thus far from our member hotels towards the Fund,” Troubetzkoy said, adding that the hotels’ interest charts a new direction for private and public sector collaboration within the tourism community.

 

Providing details on the supported projects Yola St. Jour – Manager for Finance and Administration at the SLHTA, said the Association would be offering a letter of commitment to the Castries Comprehensive Secondary School for the completion of a fully functioning culinary lab.

 

She said the Fund has also distributed a letter of commitment to the Ministry of Social Transformation for the implementation of after school programs in two depressed communities.

 

The Saint Lucia Tourist board has also received an US$192,000 commitment for a minimum revenue guarantee towards increased airlift out of the North American market, which is expected to stimulate growth out of that market.

 

In the meantime, the Association’s Director for Large Hotels – Dominic Fedee, said “This significant start is a clear indication of the magnitude of the contribution that can be made when we pull our resources together.”

 

He added, “As this becomes successful it opens the doorway for greater collaboration, especially at a time when the industry is clamoring for a closer relationship between agriculture and tourism. We are very cognizant of the fact that tourism is a catalyst for growth and development of other sectors.”

 

Beneficiaries of the fund expressed gratitude at the conference, citing the contributions as timely and pivotal.

Kai Manje restaurant recognized by Wine Spectator, recipient of the 2014 ‘Award of Excellence’

 

Kai Manje restaurant at Ti Kaye Resort & Spa does it again. With an internationally established culinary team, and being renowned for having the largest and most extensive wine cellar in Saint Lucia, Kai Manje serves up more than just ‘great food’.

Presented with Wine Spectator ‘Award of Excellence’ for the 2nd consecutive year is a defining moment in the exceptionally consistent quality and service at this naturally elegant resort. Now boasting over 600 bins, this spectacular collection of over 3000 bottles has earned Kai Manje restaurant this highly rated accolade. According to Sarah Watts, General Manager “I believe a good restaurant is characterized not only by its own unique style of great food, incredible wine and charming service, but also the restaurants ability to infuse locally grown produce into the heart of every dish served. Here in Saint Lucia that is only possible by supporting the local community and promoting organic and sustainable practices.”

Ti Kaye’s distinct location perched on the cliff side of the stunning Anse Cochon bay has been lauded for its natural elegance and unique offerings. Our international cuisine infused with locally sourced and grown herbs, spices and fresh produce is under the direction of Executive Chef Bill Ryan, who works in tandem with sommelier Cleus Charles to create a dynamic dining experience served up with the most renowned wines from around the globe. Kai Manje’s wine list features celebratory Champagnes, old world Barolos & Burgundy’s, new world Malbec’s and Shiraz, exclusive oaks such as; SHAFER Chardonnay Red Shoulder Ranch, BROCHARD Père & Fils Montrachet Grand Cru, and exquisite blends such as OPUS One in multiple vintages.

The ‘Ti Kave’ wine tastings have made our very own underground wine cellar a favorite for novice and wine enthusiasts alike. Under the guidance of their Sommelier Cleus and wine steward Dwight, Kai Manje has evolved its wine selection in an effort to offer guests the opportunity to experience a greater breadth and depth of wines. This extensive Kai Manje wine list has been thoughtfully designed to offer wines for all price ranges and occasions, boasting over 14 old and new world countries with over 50 distinct regions…Read More

Travel & Leisure Reader’s vote Cap Maison as the second, Best Hotel in the Caribbean

 

There is no doubt that St Lucia meets the needs of all its clients and visitors. This is true for the readers of one of the more premier magazines, Travel & Leisure.

Cap Maison Resort & Spa which is located in the most unique spots in the north of the island hits another milestone in the series of award and recognition, being named 2nd best hotel in St Lucia and the Caribbean.

Known worldwide for its natural beauty, Cap Maison is a beautiful boutique hotel in a truly breathtaking location with panoramic Caribbean Sea views. When it comes to St Lucia luxury hotels, it doesn’t get much better then Cap Maison. Set atop a private ocean-front bluff with magical sunset views over the clear blue waters of the Caribbean Sea, this family owned and lovingly created St Lucia luxury hotel combines elegance, charm, character and uncompromising standards of five star personal service often found only in smaller, independent properties.

The Travel & Leisure Award is usually given to hotels that define the very best in travel, voted by readers of the Travel & Leisure Magazine.  Cap Maison Resort & Spa has vowed to claim the 2015 Travel & Leisure Award, by introducing innovative amenities for its clients.

The hotel recently opened Naked Fisherman Beach Bar & Grill, located right on the beach under thatched roof Caribbean style, serves a wide selection of rums, wines, cocktails, cold beers and other refreshments. Guests can revel in their addictions at lunchtime to the ever vibrant Caribbean music, deliciously fresh seafood, dripping ribs and homemade hamburgers. The beach staff at Cap Maison make a merry rum punch and their own potent spice rum mix which is much enjoyed by the guests.

Blue Diamond Resorts acquires Smuggler’s Cove Resort & Spa in St Lucia

 

Blue Diamond Resorts, the Caribbean’s fastest growing resort chain, has announced the acquisition of popular Smuggler’s Cove Resort & Spa in St Lucia. The resort’s prime beachfront location on a secluded cove and full range of all-inclusive services make it a great addition to the chain’s resort portfolio, which includes the award winning Royalton, Memories, and Grand Lido brands.

Smuggler’s Cove Resort & Spa lies just north of the open-air markets and duty free shopping of Castries, St Lucia’s scenic Capital city. From the golden sands of the resort’s private cove, guests can enjoy a front row seat to some of the most awe-inspiring sunsets in the Caribbean. The resort offers over 350 bungalow style rooms set on a hillside surrounded by lush gardens and expansive pools. All accommodations have air-conditioning, wireless internet access, satellite television and other modern conveniences. The resort’s 4 restaurants offer guests a variety of dining options from local West Indian delicacies to International classics, while the 5 bars on-site, including a swim up pool bar, beach bar, and the sports bar & pub, serve up national and international brands day and night.

Great for honeymooners and romantic getaways, the resort offers an Adults Only Premium Beachfront room located just steps away from the sand with a Japanese soaking tub and king sized bed. Couples can enjoy a romantic table for two over the water at the resort’s Creole Grill, indulge in massages at the luxurious onsite Namaste Spa, or even exchange sunset vows at the unique oceanfront gazebo atop a scenic cliff…Read Full Story

 Culinary Ambassador is focal point for Chocolate Heritage Month 

 

With the month of August being designated Chocolate Heritage Month here on Saint Lucia, the island’s Culinary Ambassador Chef Nina Compton-Miller has become the focal point of a major marketing initiative by the Saint Tourist Board (SLTB).

The now internationally acclaimed Chef Nina who was the first runner-up and fan favorite in the last “Top Chef New Orleans” series, last week participated in a media blitz that included a media and travel agent dinner, an online chat and a series of media interviews across the ‘Big Apple’, New York, USA.

Deputy Director of Tourism, Mrs. Tracey Warner-Arnold who accompanied the home grown cooking sensation and now food connoisseur on the intensive media blitz in the greater New York area, says “Chef Nina attracts tremendous attention and love from media and consumers alike. Her unique creations, often highlight the homegrown ingredients and bring to life Saint Lucia’s rich agricultural heritage.”

In honor of Chocolate Heritage Month, Chef Nina, following on from her media blitz in the ‘Big Apple’, escorted a food inspired press trip to Saint Lucia. The press group experienced chocolate infused meals, chocolate spa treatments and made their own chocolate along the chocolate heritage trail of Saint Lucia…Read More.

Leona Constable Captures World Miss Tourism Pageant 

Coconut Bay Management and staff are celebrating the success of staff member Leona Constable who captured a top prize at the just concluded World Miss Tourism Pageant held in Nashville, Tennessee, July 25 to 27, 2014. Leona who represented the Caribbean at the pageant won the third prize from a field of nine (9) contestants.

The Coconut Bay family is elated at Leona’s achievement which provides yet another opportunity to celebrate the success of our property and its employees. CEO Mark Adams in reacting to the news said: “We share with Leona this accolade, it is truly symbolic of the excellence which we constantly cultivate and maintain at Coconut Bay. Her success on the world stage epitomizes our relentless quest for the attainment of product excellence consistent with international industry standards”…Read More.

NCPC Set To Hold Productivity Awareness Week in October 2014

 

The National Competitiveness and Productivity Council (NCPC) will be hosting its first ‘Productivity Awareness Week’ during the period 13 – 18 October 2014.  The event is aimed at raising the awareness of how productivity improvement can positively impact on the overall growth within the economy.

 

The NCPC will be collaborating with key stakeholders within the economy in order to organise the activities for the productivity week.  It is expected that stakeholders within the public and private sectors as well as civil society and schools will participate in the activities for the week.

During the week, there will be the sharing of information on innovation and practical approaches to become a more productivity society. The week of activities will engage Business Leaders, Managers, Directors, Media Personnel, Policy Makers and Government Officials.

The NCPC Productivity Awareness Week will ultimately work towards highlighting these findings and reinforcing the ideals of productivity that the Council has already began addressing. This will be done through a range of activities that will keep individuals enthralled and entertained, whilst educating them on the country’s productivity standing and the measures needed to elevate the current levels of productivity. Activities will include interactive forums, business events, presentations, school activities and guest appearances.

The “Productivity Awareness Week” forms part of the overall objectives of the Council to raise the awareness of productivity as well promoting initiatives that will lead to productivity enhancement.

As part of this ongoing productivity assessment, the Council embarked on a number of consultations at the sector and community levels in an effort to widen the discussions on productivity.  The objectives of those consultations were to bring about a general understanding of productivity as well as to solicit feedback from business establishments and the community at large on the factors that they perceive as affecting productivity in their sectors and at the national level.

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