Forty key stakeholders from across Babonneau including tour operators and AirBnB hosts, met this week to engage in discussions on establishing a coordinated umbrella organization for community tourism in Babonneau.
The session was convened under the auspices of Hon. John Paul Estephane, Minister in the Ministry of Tourism and Parliamentary Representative for Babonneau.
According to Chairperson of the Babonneau Constituency Group, Horrace Popo, “What we want to do is to bring all our areas of entertainment and enjoyment— almost akin to what Soufriere has with the Soufriere Development Foundation, and we want to package it. And of course, the minister, Honorable Estephane, he’s been behind us from the get-go.”
The session was led by Felix Finistierre, former parliamentary representative for Babonneau.
“He knows the integral parts of the constituency, and more than that, he’s a Sustainable Tourism Consultant. He has worked throughout the region and he was one of those who helped heritage tourism start in St Lucia so he has keen insights as to ways in which Babonneau can move forward,” Popo stated.
Notable attractions in Babonneau:
– Father Nature Adventures: Known for its broad collection of excursions that cater to an array of interests and skills, Father Nature has it all; from snorkeling and waterfall chasing to mountain climbing, camping, and discovering hidden coastal pools.
– Rainforest Adventures offers an immersive jungle experience featuring the island’s only aerial tram, ziplining, and guided nature hikes. Situated in a 1,200-acre forest reserve, it provides eco-friendly tours suitable for families and thrill-seekers.
– Aanansi ATV Tours allows visitors and locals to enjoy stunning vistas, glimpses of country life and ride through farms and plantations.
– La Sorcière, the tallest mountain in the northern part of of the island.
“Look at the Soufriere Development Foundation and what it is for the people living in Soufriere. We believe Babonneau can have something similar,” Popo stated.
Moreover, he added, “Babonneau is 20 minutes away from the major hotels. We have rivers, hills, places to hike, if you like hiking, wonderful catering and every Wednesday night, we have our Fish Fry in Des Barras. What people leave and go to Dominica for, we have it here,” he emphasized.