The St. Maarten and Anguilla Tourist Boards in Canada teamed up for a joint FAM at the beginning of June. A group of 20 agents flew with Westjet, from both Toronto and Montreal, into St. Maarten. The joint FAM provided agents with an opportunity to enjoy the neighbouring destinations, helping them to understand the ease of access to both islands, which are only 5.5 miles apart.
Catherine Pentiricci, manager of the St. Maarten Tourist Bureau in Canada, said that: “An important part of St. Maarten’s appeal is the three neighbouring islands — Anguilla, St. Barth’s and Saba. Anguilla, only 20 minutes away by ferry, is the closest.”
Pentiricci said that: “The consensus from this fam group was a strong feeling of how the two destinations both contrast and compliment each other, creating a unique and rich vacation experience. In addition, the agents were among the first in Canada to conduct site inspections of St. Maarten properties that will be brand new to the 2014/2015 winter tour operator programs, a few of which haven’t been formerly announced yet.”
Dale Pusching of the Anguilla Tourist Board in Canada noted: “We were thrilled to participate in this excellent FAM. The itinerary was busy, but the agents kept their pace and got to see the best that Anguilla offers with appeal to all budgets.”
As for the participants, Linda Josimovic, manager of Marlin Travel (Bay/Bloor in Toronto), commented: “The fam was a unique and blended experience with a cohesive group and outstanding hostesses! St. Maarten and Anguilla will stay in my heart and memories for years to follow. We could not of asked for a better travel relationship.”
While Magali Bruneau of Voyages Le Survenant-Navigair (Montreal) said: “Saint-Martin et Anguilla sont deux belles decouvertes. Anguilla et Saint-Martin ce sont le paradis sur mesure. Voux savez ce qui est epoustouflant? Saint-Martin et Anguilla.”
Beth Pitts, from Ellison Travel & Tours in Exeter, noted: “I used to think that St. Maarten and Anguilla were just like any other island I’ve visited. Was I ever wrong. Everything from the cuisine, shopping, nightlife, and scenery was exceptional. Every picture I took could be on a postcard. I cannot wait to return.”
Audrey Williams, senior travel consultant with Vision 2000, Montreal, pointed out that: “St. Maarten and Anguilla together creates a perfect blend of St. Maarten’s Dutch hospitality oozing with a multitude of activities for all, to the subdued sophistication and tranquility of Anguilla’s virgin white sand beaches. Together they are an awesome and magical duo.”
Tania Murro of Group Ideal Travel, Montreal observed: “These islands, Sint Maarten and Anguilla, have opened my mind and seeped into my soul. One can only understand the feeling once you go.”
And Angela Landry from Vision 2000, Montreal noted that: “St. Maarten and Anguilla are like two sisters, each with their own identity and beauty in deep respect and love of each other. The crystal blue waters and warmth of the people will remain always in my heart and memory.”
For more, go to http://www.ivisitanguilla.com or visit http://www.vacationstmaarten.com .
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