Belize City, Friday, November 13, 2009 – The Belize Tourism Board brought together all stakeholders involved in the cruise tourism sector last week Monday.

The meeting was in preparation for the upcoming cruise season and addressed several key issues aimed at providing a high-quality Belize experience. Highlighted was the importance of each stakeholder working seamlessly to further grow the industry

As a follow up, on Friday a Cruise Rally was held at the Old Belize Jungle Pavilion to reemphasize the importance of the cruise sector and the specific roles of attendees in providing an exceptional visitor experience. Present were over 200 stakeholders directly involved in the cruise sector. This included presidents of various associations, such as tour guides, taxis, vendors and hair braiders from the Fort Street Tourism Village area. The welcome address was given by Mike Singh from the Ministry of Tourism. Noteworthy presentations included a Preliminary Plan for North Front Street under the Sustainable Tourism Project presented by Project Director Noel Jacobs and a Fisheries Plan for a continued healthy marine and coastal environment by Isias Majil of the Fisheries Department. BTB Board Member Mr. Elito Arceo also communicated about the San Pedro tourism experience.

In addition to the presentations and information on future projects, Certified Hospitality Department Trainer Mr. Javier Guiterrez shared customer service tips on ‘What is Service’ ‘Customer Service Essentials’, ‘What is Excellent Customer Service’ ‘The 7/11 Rule’ and ‘Professionalism’.

Director of Product Development, Mrs. Laura Esquivel-Frampton closed by thanking all stakeholders for their active participation in the day’s session and invited them all to work together and with the BTB to improve tourism in Belize.

(Press Release)