Q & A with Ernest M. Littes, President and CEO of the Trinidad and Tobago Tourism Bureau

The Trinidad & Tobago Tourism Board has just rolled out a promotional campaign in Spain because its front office believes the twin-island nation could draw far more visitors from this country based on common cultural values they share –like the language. Within the framework of the EIBTM 2008 tradeshow held in Barcelona, Spain, Caribbean News Digital talked exclusively with Mr. Littles about these topics.

P- Mr. Ernest, how many times have you visited EIBTM?
R- This is the first time for me for many years. About twenty years ago, when I was in Geneva, I used to go frequently, but now I’m just starting back again.

P- Do you find interesting that EIBTM is taking place in Barcelona rather than in Geneva, where different Caribbean countries, different tour operator offices from Latin America are coming to this fair?
R- I think the EIBTM in Barcelona is much more spirited than in Geneva and I think it’s a great opportunity for us to benefit from the many opportunities. Its taking place here makes the fair much warmer, welcoming and spirited than in any other country.

P- Do you think Spain is a good market for Trinidad y Tobago?
R- Absolutely. We’re only twelve miles from Venezuela and we have a very large Venezuelan and Spanish-speaking population in Trinidad. Spanish is the second official language in Trinidad and Tobago and there’s a large element of Spanish culture there.

P- The Trinidad & Tobago Tourism Bureau is conducting some promotional efforts in Spain. Do you think it’s important to carry out such a promotional blitz in Spain?
R- Absolutely. I think we’re not a mass tourism market as perhaps the East coast of Mexico is or the Dominican Republic where that segment of the market is clinched, and for those travelers who are looking for a special unique experience such as dive and ecotourism, yacht sailing and those sort of things Trinidad and Tobago is the best choice they can get.

P- This show is definitely important for the European market, but FITUR is far more important. FITUR is the second-largest tradeshow in the world. Is it possible that your bureau will be visiting FITUR with a booth of its own come January?
R- Yes, it’s one of our plans to get actively involved with FITUR. We’ve just reinvigorated our trade outreach and marketing outreach in Europe and we think, because of the current condition of the economy, we have to make sure more than ever before that people are aware of the many pleasures and experiences available in our destination.

P- Do you have an office in Spain or in Europe?
R- We have office in Germany and London, UK.

P- Are you looking for the opening of an office in Spain?
R- Well, right now we’re looking for a representative in Spain.