TDC Looks toward Culinary Tourism

Yolande Selman, acting CEO of the Tourism Development Company (TDC), says culinary tourism can positively impact T&T’s GDP. However, she said, for that to happen citizens must be able to see how the unique flavors of this country can positively impact the economy.

“A recent survey by the Travel Industry Association of America and the National Restaurant Association in the US found that for 25 per cent of all leisure travellers, food is central in deciding where they vacation,” Selman said.

Selman made the comments at a recent culinary press trip for international media at the House of Angostura in Laventille. She said the event was part of this country’s effort to become a significant player in the world tourism market.

In addition, over the last year the TDC has been developing and promoting packages that feature tour experiences around a culinary theme. On the developmental side, projects such as the Debe Doubles Pavilion and even culinary festivals that highlight T&T, bolster awareness of indigenous foods and the heritage of towns and villages, she said.

These initiatives, she added, are specifically designed to celebrate the country’s many culinary tourism assets, while enhancing culinary tourism.