ANTIGUA & BARBUDA TOURISM AUTHORITY

On Tuesday 15th March, 2011 Antigua and Barbuda welcomed Mr. Benjamin Mc Donald of Canada, the recent winner of the Caribbean Tourism Organisation Youth Essay Writing Contest and who was awarded a three day prize trip to Antigua and Barbuda. Benjamin was escorted by his mother Mrs. Kathy Paris Mc Donald.

Both Benjamin and his mother enjoyed the warm hospitality of our people although their stay was short; they were able to immerse themselves in our rich Island culture. Upon their arrival, they were greeted by our tourism officials and soon after taken to the Jolly Beach Resort & Spa where they were welcomed by their delightful staff.

The Ministry of Tourism had a packed day for both mother and son. Benjamin was scheduled to present his essay entitled “The History and Origin of Trinidad’s Carnival and its relevance in today’s world” to the students at the Bolans and TN Kirnon Primary School. The students were excited to meet Benjamin and were very receptive towards him. They were also encouraged to ask him questions about his essay. One student asked Benjamin what he liked most about Antigua and although he had only been on the Island for a few hours he stated that he loved our beaches and was also fascinated by the students in uniform which was different from his own culture in Canada.

Both mother and son were treated with a scenic tour of St. Johns where they visited the Museum of Antigua & Barbuda, savoured our delectable local cuisine at the Big Banana, and enjoyed a historical tour of Redcliffe Quay. Benjamin also participated in an interactive radio programme on Observer Radio called “Our House” along side Miss Terriekia Benjamin, national winner of the FCCA annual essay contest, 2009 and 2010. He then returned to the hotel for a relaxing and fun filled day.