St. Lucia is a small Caribbean island with an abundance of natural beauty. The island is famous for its crystal-clear waters, lush rainforests, and pristine beaches.
It’s no wonder that tourism is a major contributor to the island’s economy. In fact, tourism plays such a significant role in St. Lucia’s economy that it accounts for a substantial portion of the country’s GDP.
How much of St Lucia’s GDP is tourism?
According to the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), tourism directly contributed 16.9% of St. Lucia’s total GDP in 2019. This means that visitors to the island spent a significant amount of money on accommodation, food and beverages, transportation, and other tourist activities.
However, the indirect impact of tourism on St. Lucia’s economy is even more substantial than direct contribution figures suggest. In 2019, the total contribution of travel and tourism to St. Lucia’s GDP was estimated at 48.6%. This includes both direct and indirect contributions such as investment spending or government spending on tourism-related infrastructure.
Why is tourism so important to St Lucia?
Tourism has become one of the most crucial pillars of St. Lucia’s economy due to its ability to create jobs and generate revenue for the country. The industry provides jobs for many locals who work in hotels, restaurants, tour companies and transportation services.
Moreover, by attracting foreign visitors, tourism creates an inflow of foreign exchange which helps stimulate economic growth and development in the country.
What are some popular tourist attractions in St Lucia?
St.Lucia has numerous natural attractions that make it an ideal destination for tourists looking to explore nature or relax on beautiful beaches while enjoying tropical climate all year round.
Some popular tourist attractions include:
- The Pitons: These are two volcanic plugs located near Soufrière town which offer hiking trails with spectacular views of the island’s coastline.
- Mud baths: Located near Soufriere town, visitors can experience natural hot springs and mud baths which are believed to have therapeutic properties for the skin.
- Marigot Bay: This bay is located on the west coast of the island and is considered one of the most beautiful bays in the Caribbean. It offers breathtaking views and is a popular spot for yachting.
In conclusion
Tourism plays a significant role in St. Lucia’s economy, accounting for almost half of the country’s GDP. The industry has helped create jobs and generate revenue while also attracting foreign exchange which helps stimulate economic growth.
St. Lucia’s natural beauty makes it an ideal destination for tourists looking to explore nature or relax on beautiful beaches while enjoying tropical climate all year round. So, whether you’re looking to hike the Pitons or soak in natural hot springs, St. Lucia has something to offer everyone.