Nassau, Bahamas - In a vibrant celebration of World Tourism Day, Nassau Cruise Port partnered with the University of The Bahamas (UB) and the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism to offer students enrolled in the Introduction to Tourism and Hospitality class a unique and immersive port experience.
On September 23rd, 22 university students embarked on an exclusive tour gaining firsthand knowledge of the operations of the world's busiest transit port. Their journey commenced at the Arrivals Terminal for a view of the ships in port and an overview of our port operations and security procedures.
Next, the students delved into Bahamian culture with a tour of The Bahamas Museum of Junkanoo, enriching their understanding of the country's most celebrated cultural expression. The museum tour culminated in a lively "rush out" that the students thoroughly enjoyed.
The group then explored the Port Marketplace and Port Plaza, stopping by World of Graycliff to sample locally made products, including delectable Bahamian chocolate.
The students were treated to lunch at Bamboo Shack at Da Port, followed by sweet treats from Isola Gelato and Dole Whip, two port businesses offering refreshing options to locals and visitors.
The day ended with a surprise visit from the Director General of the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation, Latia Duncombe, at the port's Gallery and Wine Bar. Ms. Duncombe spoke to students on the significance of World Tourism Day and encouraged the them to consider careers in the industry. She emphasized the importance of fresh perspectives and innovative ideas in diversifying tourism offerings and enhancing the nation's primary economic driver. The students engaged in a dynamic Q&A session with Ms. Duncombe and captured the memorable day with photos.
Shawn Gomez, marketing and communications manager at Nassau Cruise Port, expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Tourism and UB for collaborating to inspire these future tourism leaders.
"We are delighted that the students enjoyed the tour and gained new insights into the port and our operations," Gomez remarked. "What I particularly appreciate about this class is that it's an elective, so the group wasn't solely comprised of Tourism and Hospitality majors. We had students from nursing, journalism, sociology, education, business, and small island sustainability, yet they were all actively engaged and eager to learn about this major tourist hub. It was an excellent reminder for them all that tourism impacts so many industries."
She continued, "We want to thank Mrs. Lesley Seymour-Rahming and Ms. Ruth Gardiner for entrusting us to provide an engaging and educational tour for their students and for their willingness to celebrate World Tourism Day with Nassau Cruise Port. We are also deeply grateful to the Ministry of Tourism for helping us surprise the students with a visit from the Director General. It's evident that Ms. Duncombe genuinely cares about the future of tourism, and I admire her desire for our youth to think creatively and explore innovative ways to contribute to the industry."
This collaborative effort between Nassau Cruise Port, UB, and the Ministry of Tourism to encourage and motivate students underscores a shared commitment to nurturing the next generation of tourism professionals.
