The Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA), The Belize Tourism Board (BTB), and McNab Publishing Ltd., hosted a mixer on April 25, 2016 at Belize Biltmore Plaza to unveil the NEW Destination Belize magazine theme and the winners of the ‘Capture the Cover’ photo competition. The business community, members of the BTIA and other key stakeholders and industry partners gathered as representatives from BTIA, BTB and McNab Publishing Ltd. uncovered the signature publications’ rebranding strategy, industry updates and developments for the upcoming Destination Belize publication.
As President of the BTIA, Mr. Osmany Salas opened the event by welcoming all in attendance and highlighting the future of the NEW and improved Destination Belize signature publication. The Belize Tourism Board’s Director of Marketing and Industry Relations, Ms. Karen Pike shared insight on the growth and importance of the tourism industry and the great significance of marketing Belize using the best marketing platforms.
Ms. Tanya McNab, Creative Director at McNab Publishing Ltd. accentuated the key objective of the publication’s new digital marketing tools: “From its eBook versions, to the use of QR codes and the introduction of the country’s new Travel App the new Destination Belize offers a package that will suit the needs of travelers, distributors and the needs of the ever-changing technology landscape. The relationship between travel and technology has become closer than ever as consumers rely more on smart devices when travelling. As statistics show Travel-related apps rank as the 7th most downloaded type of apps, with 6 out of 10 mobile users downloading travel apps relating to the country they are visiting. Digitally marketing is no longer an optional add-on, it is an absolute must and the new Destination Belize is no longer just a print publication.”
An online campaign to include local artists in the creative process for the creation of the NEW Destination Belize magazine, a ‘Capture the Cover’ Photo Competition was launched earlier this month. Eight photographers were acknowledged and recognized for the following categories:
- In the Sea Category: Juan Carlo Menzies
- In the Sea Category: Wesley Witt
- On the Land Category: Monica Gallardo
- On the Land Category: Scott Houston
- Heritage Category: Melvin Diego Jr.
- Wildlife Category: Hannah Montero
- Wellbeing Category: Cynthia Giovagnoli
- Publics Choice: Scott and Jody Harnish
On the Land Category: Monica Gallardo
In the Sea Category: Juan Carlo Menzies
Heritage Category: Melvin Diego Jr.
To conclude the event, the unveiling of the theme for the new Destination Belize followed and was presented by Mr. Osmany Salas, Ms. Karen Pike, and Ms. Tanya McNab as Mr. John M. Burgos, Executive Director of BTIA described the new theme:
“Belize is a destination full of quaint and thrilling experiences. From its lush jungles, pristine beaches, large cave systems and rich diverse cultures; travelers are always left wanting more. Travelers are naturally eager to see, have a thirst and desire to learn more and gain more from their worldwide travel experiences. Whether you call it wanderlust, a love of travel or regular old curiosity, ones interest and quest for adventure can be met in Belize. Belize offers authentic and wonderful adventures leaving travelers in awe as expectations are exceeded…give all, the trip of a lifetime. In essence, the new Destination Belize theme speaks directly to you our audience and the world!”
“Travel Curious…this journey will change you”
The BTIA, BTB and McNab Publishing extend their appreciation and gratitude to all stakeholders who support and continue to contribute to this exciting NEW and improved signature publication of Belize.
