Tweet

 

 

Two presidents of the three Taxi Associations in St. Kitts. Both stated that the cruise industry has undoubtedly created jobs for locals. As heads of the two Taxi Associations, they gave their feedback on how the 77 percent increase in passenger spend has benefited the taxi operators.

 

President of the St. Kitts Taxi Association, Calvin Leader said that the taxi service providers have definitely felt the increase in passenger spend.

 

David Brandy, President of the Liamuiga Taxi Association, shared the same sentiments, noting that there has been a “trickle-down effect” when it comes to all service providers in general.

 

“The ‘tourist spend’ spans across different areas. The tourist dollar is spent on tours where they get to experience the islands. On these tours, passengers purchase souvenirs. Most of them want to sample our beer and local drinks. As you know, Carib Beer is brewed and bottled here. Some want to go to the beach and spend some time there. Passengers also visit various restaurants to taste the local cuisine. So those are the areas in which the dollars are spent,” said Mr. Brandy.

 

The tourism industry in St. Kitts and Nevis will continue to grow exponentially in the upcoming years, said Minister of Tourism, the Honourable Lindsay Grant, noting that locals will always stand to benefit year after year, especially in the cruise industry.