Putting New York in a Bermuda state of mind
Bermuda got full exposure in New York during a Louis Vuitton America’s Cup World Series riverside event.
Visitors learnt about the island at the Bermuda Tourism Authority booth, which was decorated with a moongate entrance.
Guests could have a picture taken in a photo booth with Bermuda-themed props and backgrounds and could peer through a special viewfinder featuring photos of the island.
BTA staff were on hand to answer questions about Bermuda and the hotly anticipated America’s Cup event in 2017.
Lamar Caines, assistant research manager for the BTA, said: “This is basically an opportunity for us to expose people who came down for the races to Bermuda and what we’re offering next year.
“Guests had an opportunity to have their picture taken with different Bermuda signs, so that’s awesome exposure that people are going to take home and their friends are going to see. So the exposure extends far beyond just those that came here today.”
Hamilton Princess shared the Event Village space with the BTA and offered massages for visitors.
Robert Marusi, director of hotel sales for the Hamilton Princess, added: “It’s good because this event is putting Bermuda back on the map where it should be and it’s certainly raising awareness for our iconic hotel that’s been modernised and giving us the exposure that we need.”
Also representing Bermuda was TABS, located in the Sail Racing store, selling Bermuda shorts as well as swimwear featuring images of the America’s Cup catamarans racing in Bermuda.
TABS founder, Rebecca Hanson said: “It’s a huge privilege to be here and to be against all of these international brands as well.
“We’re right there with Sail Racing and Sperry and the watch brands, it’s fantastic. It’s a great opportunity. The pink shorts are selling well and the new kid’s swim shorts are selling well.”
Michael Dunkley joined local partners and others in spreading the “Bermuda message” to the crowds attending the World Series events.
The Premier participated in an interview with Forbes.com, media engagements at the America’s Cup Media Centre and paid a visit to the BTA booth for some interaction with staff and guests. During each of the media opportunities Mr Dunkley highlighted Bermuda’s attractiveness as a leisure and business destination, the progress of the island’s tourism product, upcoming hotel development, the transformation of Dockyard into the America’s Cup Village and the overall importance of Bermuda hosting the 2017 America’s Cup.
In his capacity as National Security Minister and chair of the Emergency Measures Organisation (EMO) Mr Dunkley was provided an extensive assessment of the safety and security operations overseeing the LVACWS weekend of events.
Mr Dunkley said: “It was exciting to see the buzz this event is creating and just how many people know about Bermuda. People who’ve been to the Island appreciate how good the sailing conditions are and how good a venue it is. Bermuda showcased extremely well this weekend. Everyone who represented the Island, from the BTA to our local sponsor organisations, certainly ensured that we were top of mind this weekend. As Premier, it made me very proud to see how well Bermuda was being received. Our aim was to promote our Island to the thousands of people here this weekend, and I’m encouraged that our efforts will bear fruit in enticing people to come to Bermuda in May and June 2017, which will ultimately benefit Bermuda.”
Mr Dunkley returns to Bermuda today.