SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The St. Maarten Tourism Bureau and Saint Martin Tourism Office successfully collaborated in Dominica for an engaging destination promotion, bringing the spirit of the island’s French and Dutch sides to life through tantalizing cuisine, rich cross-cultural experiences and heartfelt connections.
These marketing activations were conjointly organized by Jacqueline Louis, Caribbean Agent for the St. Maarten Tourism Bureau; bringing together a dedicated delegation and promotional team to showcase the island’s distinctive appeal to regional travellers during Dominica’s World Creole Music Festival.
This exciting destination showcase included two distinctive areas for rum and food tastings, along with prominent, interactive displays. The highlight was the live cooking demonstrations by Chef Foini, which was supported by Sous Chef Sara, hosted by the French St. Martin Tourism Office. The culinary presentation invited guests to discover the flavours, creativity and passion that make the island a celebrated Caribbean culinary powerhouse.
Guests in the festival’s VVIP and VIP areas enjoyed an elevated tasting experience while receiving a personal invitation to visit this dynamic dual-nation island paradise and also, to attend the Festival de la Gastronomie, taking place November 11–22, 2026, in Saint Martin. The promotion offered a taste of the culinary discoveries awaiting visitors while encouraging them to experience more of the island.
With the Caribbean market playing a central role in global tourism, trade and regional connections, continued promotions remain essential to building momentum, strengthening relationships and keeping the destination top of mind.
By showcasing a vibrant blend of gastronomy, culture and personal connections, the two tourism offices brought the island’s appeal to life, inviting travelers to discover one island with twice the experiences, from memorable getaways with family and friends to exciting business opportunities.
“Through warm conversations, shared flavours and engaging experiences, we connected with festivalgoers from across the Caribbean and the world who cherish exceptional cuisine, cultural discovery and memorable escapes, whether it be with family, friends or for business trade. Each encounter was a heartfelt invitation to savour our flavours, embrace our people and discover the experiences that make visitors feel welcome and inspire them to return,” said Valerie Damaseau, Commissioner in charge of Tourism and Culture of Saint-Martin.
“Bringing the French and Dutch sides together allows us to share the beauty and richness of our island through our complementary strengths and shared passion for welcoming visitors. Food creates a wonderful connection; it sparks conversations, brings people closer and opens the door to discovering our culture and the many experiences that make Saint Martin and Sint Maarten so memorable,” said Jacqueline Louis, Caribbean Agent for the St. Maarten Tourism Bureau and CEO of IMBRACE Group.
WINAIR supported the initiative, reinforcing the importance of regional air connectivity in turning destination awareness into travel opportunities. Its slogan, “We Take You There!”, complemented the invitation for Caribbean travelers to discover the entire island with direct connections to St. Maarten.
From the stage to the stands and across the festival grounds, St. Maarten and St. Martin made meaningful cross-cultural connections with Dominica’s residents, as well as travelers from across the Caribbean and around the world. Engagements also included a featured onstage performance by DJ Outkast and meeting with Marva Williams, CEO of the Discover Dominica Authority, reinforcing the value of regional tourism collaboration.
Together, these activations brought the island’s culture, cuisine, entertainment, and hospitality to life, extending an invitation beyond Dominica’s shores: discover one island, two distinct experiences and endless reasons to visit.
