ST LUCIA DMC News: Barefoot Holidays St. Lucia has launched its new Birdwatching Program

Music fills the air and the island dances to the beat of jazz as one of the most anticipated events, St. Lucia Jazz 2010, draws near. Music lovers from all corners of the globe travel to experience this world renowned festival.

Barefoot Holidays St. Lucia, the premier Destination Management Company on the island has once again been selected as the official Ground Handler for the upcoming festival from May 1st to 9th, 2010. For the past five years we have been a designated partner managing all transportation logistics and contributing to the success of this event.

The rich dusky tones of jazz and world rhythms gently fuse at St. Lucia Jazz which features some of the finest artistes in the music industry. This year’s dynamic line up includes Earl Klugh, Jean Luc Ponty, Laura Izibor, Ne-Yo, Steel Pulse, Corine Bailey Rae, Jeffrey Osbourne and Freddie Jackson. Considered to be one of the leading music festivals, Saint Lucia Jazz, is now marking its 19th anniversary and this year’s stars add to the long list of world class artistes who have previously graced the stage here like; Patti Labelle, Smokey Robinson, Chicago, Anita Baker, Natalie Cole, Kenny G and so many others.

This expedition begins with a relaxing evening where one comes up close and personal with charming cattle egrets, herons, mohens, thrashers and experience the flashing brilliance of energetic hummingbirds in their natural habitat.

On this journey one can surrender to an extraordinary whale watching and dolphin spotting adventure as they cruise along the stunning coastline and look out for these unique beautiful mammals. The program offers the opportunity to explore the west coast of the island driving through lush vegetation, quaint fishing villages and later absorbing the Aquarian bounty of St. Lucia.

Glide over the tree tops above the rainforest canopy in the comfort of an open-air gondola and catch a glimpse of the countless blooming flowers and endemic bird species from above. On this invigorating journey one can learn about locally grown medicinal and culinary plants amidst a fascinating array of colorful flowers. Kayak along the ever blue, west coastline of the island where you watch as seabirds soar peacefully overhead against the azure blue sky and paddle through a river teeming with birds and fish life.

Discover the unsurpassed beauty of the island with this unique tour program or let us customize a program for you. Arrangements for five-star, four-star or three-star accommodation can be made upon request. Information, brochures and reservations can be obtained from Barefoot Holidays St. Lucia at barefoot@candw.lc.

Island wide there is a sense of national pride – as St. Lucians prepare to celebrate our nation’s independence on February 22nd, 2010. The island’s elegant national flag is flown at every street corner. One can catch a glimpse of the dominant cerulean blue which reflects the tropical sky and the emerald blue seas surrounding the island. The triangles at the center can’t be missed as they are reminiscent of the outstanding twin peaks, the Pitons and symbolizes the hope and aspirations of the people. The prevailing Caribbean sunshine is represented by the gold, while the black and white signify the cultural influences of St. Lucia.

Cultural tradition is re-enacted as students prepare for the annual parade to display the heritage, history and development of this island state. Islanders celebrate this special day with colourful parades, festivals, concerts and live music. The team members at Barefoot Holidays St. Lucia take time from their busy schedule to immerse themselves in the week long celebration and to take along with them clients who would like to experience this wonderful day in the life of St. Lucia.

Bird Watcher’s Delight is a refreshing package that offers an opportunity to experience the joy of birding along varied trails and habitats spotting a great variety of endemic, migrant and exotic birds.

On this journey, trek through untouched and unspoiled rainforests to catch a glimpse of endemic species like the St. Lucian Oriole, St. Lucian Warbler, The St. Lucian Pewee and the island’s indigenous and endangered parrot, the Amazona Versicolor in their natural habitat.

The program offers an opportunity to explore the fascinating wetlands of St. Lucia, habitat to a multitude of exotic and exceptional birds including the Great Blue Heron, Red-billed Grebe and the regional endemic - the Broad-winged Sandpiper. Glide over the tree tops above the rainforest canopy in the comfort of an open-air gondola and catch a glimpse of the countless blooming flowers and unique bird species from above.

This bird watching program was designed with the careful advice of a local birding consultant and all tours are accompanied by a knowledgeable birding specialist. Whether you are a novice, hobbyist or a hardcore birding enthusiast, Barefoot Holidays is happy to have you join us on our Bird Watcher’s Delight package tour or on another customized birding adventure. Arrangements for five-star, four-star or three-star accommodation can be made upon request.

Barefoot Holidays St. Lucia, the leading Adventure Specialist on the island, offers an array of exciting activities ranging from classic walks along countryside farms or through lush green forests to exhilarating zip lining.

Barefoot Holidays St. Lucia recently announced its “Five Fabulous Walks” package tour – a seven-day package of fun that offers a unique chance to discover St. Lucia, an island of unsurpassed natural beauty.

This package offers an opportunity to explore the historical gems of the capital city and Pigeon Island where the history of St. Lucia unravels before you. Experience the great joy of birding along rustic trails spotting a great variety of endemic species and tropical birds. Walk through the quaint fishing villages with a tranquil atmosphere and discover the rural charm of the countryside – the historical churches, country gardens, lush flora and traditions of centuries ago.

Journey through cultural and heritage sites and explore the timeless traditions as we traverse through the villages. Enjoy the sounds of a local “chak-chak” band, see the local people prepare indigenous foods, in which you interact with them and learn more about them. For those yearning to experience St. Lucia’s rustic authenticity preserved in these villages, this is certainly a tour for you.

This refreshing package is non-inclusive of hotel accommodation, however, arrangements can be made for you at beautiful luxury boutique hotels or inviting intimate inns. Information, brochures and reservations can be obtained from Barefoot Holidays St. Lucia at barefoot@candw.lc.

Barefoot Holidays’ President, Ms. Erwin Louisy, currently sits on the Board of Directors of the Association of Destination Management Executives (ADME) and has been appointed as chair person for the International Committee.

Erwin is charged with the responsibility of increasing the International profile and membership of the organization. The current membership has a geographic spread outside of the US which spans Canada, Ireland, Europe, China and the Caribbean.

ADME is an organization committed to the enhancement of Destination Management professionals. The companies who are members of this association strive to attain the highest level of professional and ethical behaviour in the Destination Management Industry.

ADME defines a Destination Management Company as a professional services company, possessing extensive local knowledge, expertise and resources, specializing in the design and implementation of events, activities, tours, transportation and program logistics.