St Lucia group reports more interest in eco-tourism

THE Greater St Lucia Wetland Park Authority has reported changing visitor patterns over the past festive season holidays, with increased interest from eco-tourists. Bed and breakfast establishments in St Lucia and Mtubatuba have also reported an increase in international visitors, especially more families, over the festive season as compared to previous years. St Lucia, says the authority, is experiencing boom times in the mid- to upper-range accommodation facilities, and four new guesthouses and lodges have recently opened, among other tourist facilities. Another development, reports one operator, is the increasing interest in birding and plants, although diving and fishing remain the major attractions. (Natalia Thomson)