Find Tourism and Travel partners in Grenada
- Overview
- Investment
Overview
The tourism industry in Grenada plays a major role in supporting and developing the economy. The travel and tourism sector contributed XCD391.8m to the economy in 2011. It provides 9,500 jobs in the country, including jobs indirectly supported by the industry, a significant 20.4% of the total workforce (World Travel and Tourism Council – WTTC 2011). The country is placed 27th in the world (out of 181 countries) with respect to the industry’s relative contribution to the economy, with a share of 22.2% of GDP, compared to a world average of 14% (WTTC 2011). In 2010 106,000 tourist arrivals came to Grenada, with the United Kingdom as the main source market. It is followed by the United States and arrivals from other Caribbean territories. Cruise passengers also provide a significant proportion of visitors, particularly during the winter months. Visitor exports generated XCD226.4m in 2011, which constituted 46% of total exports in the country. The Grenada Board of Tourism is responsible for promoting the country as a tourist destination, developing standards and regulating the quality of the local tourism service providers. The Ministry of Tourism is responsible for ensuring that tourism is an essential backbone of the economy. The Grenada Hotel and Tourism Association represents the industry in the country.
Investment
The volcanic history of Grenada has created an island of great natural beauty, with impressive mountains and ridges, alongside lush valleys and extensive tropical rainforest. This provides numerous opportunities for activities, particularly hiking and bird watching. The recent development of national parks and protected areas on the island offers great potential for the expansion of ecotourism.
The most traditional tourist attraction of the country has been its pristine beaches and coral reefs, and the potential for diving, snorkelling and other water activities that they provide. The port city of St. George’s is a great draw, particularly well-known for its numerous exotic spices. Tours of historical estates on the island notably for rum, spices and sugar are an increasingly popular attraction. Additionally, local festivals, fairs and markets are still an integral part of life in the country.
The smaller island of Carriacou is an ideal location for walking, as well as possessing beautiful beaches. The third island of Petite Martinique currently has little infrastructure for tourism, but is in the process of being developed and has great potential for investment and growth.
Investment in the travel and tourism sector in 2011 was XCD45.3mn, constituting 11.1% of total investment in the country. It was expected to grow by 7.9% in 2012, and then grow by 5.6% pa over the following ten years, rising to XCD84.0mn by 2022.
Tourism and Travel organisations in Grenada | |
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Ministry of Tourism |
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