(Continuing with the theme from the last post.) What is the unique aspect of St. Martin’s heritage that makes it not just another sunny island, but a story that visitors will remember and recount to their friends and family? I don’t think it is wildlife, or at least, I don’t think it is just wildlife.
Promoting the real St. Martin means sharing and celebrating many aspects of the local culture and heritage. Archaeology, history, arts and cuisine are all part of that. The multicultural history as a two-nation island is part of that. (And, actually, the two-nation narrative itself is a simplification of the reality that throughout its history the island has been a home to people from many places.) Part of it may be relating historical aspects (fishing and seafaring) to their modern counterparts (sailing, fishing and diving) and making the common thread explicit to add depth and character to the experiences tourists are already having.
I don’t think it is that difficult, but I think it does require understanding local heritage and turning it into a story that has more in common with a great documentary film than a boring classroom lecture. And, of course, sharing it, from individual personal interactions to how the island markets itself to the world.
On that note, after a busy morning I’m happy to announce that the new wildlife guide is now available in a bunch of new retail locations: Island Water World in Cole Bay, Top Carrot, Good Cards and Ocean Explorers in Simpson Bay and the Museum in Marigot.