Curaçao Fest 2023: Strengthening Bonds and Inspiring Travel

In a bid to forge stronger ties with Suriname and ignite the wanderlust of travelers eyeing September vacations, the Curaçao Tourism Board (CTB), in collaboration with hospitality partners, orchestrated the vibrant Curaçao Fest 2023 in that country. This three-day extravaganza served as a platform to connect with press representatives, travel agencies, and eager consumers. The event, a resounding success, not only showcased Curaçao’s exquisite accommodations but also offered a glimpse into the island’s rich culture and beauty.

With a notable presence of 20 media outlets, over 30 travel agents, and an enthusiastic crowd of 700+ attendees at the consumer event, Curaçao Fest 2023 made a lasting impression.

Day 1: Engaging with the Press
The inaugural day of Curaçao Fest was dedicated to building relationships with press members. Kicking off with a delectable Curaçaoan breakfast, the day was filled with informative presentations on local hotels. Ms. Elaine Hart-Francisca, the Regional Manager of the Caribbean, took the stage to provide insights into Curaçao’s latest activities, upcoming events, and overall development. This deep dive into Curaçao’s dynamic landscape left an indelible mark on the press members.

Adding a creative touch to the day, local artist Avantia Damberg led an interactive art workshop. Attendees had the opportunity to craft their own art on tote bags, drawing inspiration from iconic Curaçaoan images. This engaging day brought together influential media outlets from Suriname, further strengthening Curaçao’s presence in the region.

Day 2: Empowering Travel Agents
Day 2 of the festival was all about empowering travel agents with the necessary tools to effectively promote and sell Curaçao as a prime destination. Ms. Hart-Francisca and hotel partners such as Courtyard by Marriott Curaçao, Harbor Hotel & Casino Curaçao, and Brion City Hotel provided in-depth presentations. This knowledge equips travel agents to effectively showcase Curaçao’s unique lodging offerings to potential travelers.

Culmination: A Vibrant Consumer Show
The festival reached its grand finale with a lively consumer show hosted at the new International Mall Suriname. Over 20 partner stands, including airlines, travel agencies, and hotels, adorned the venue, captivating visitors with visions of their next vacation. Guests were treated to Curaçao’s culinary delights, featuring the delectable ‘pan ku stobá’ in the island’s signature ‘truk’i pan’ (food truck).

Attendees could also participate in an art workshop guided by Avantia Damberg and embrace Curaçao’s culture through a Tambú (drum) dance workshop. The backdrop, reminiscent of Curaçao’s iconic ‘Handelskade,’ transported visitors to the heart of the island, offering an immersive experience.

In conclusion, CTB extends its heartfelt gratitude to its esteemed hotel partners and the talented local artist Avantia Damberg for their invaluable contributions to the resounding success of Curaçao Fest 2023. The event served as a testament to the allure and charm of Curaçao as a must-visit destination, fostering strong bonds and inspiring travelers to explore its beauty.

Source: curacaochronicle.com