Tourism and investment officials are looking forward to the completion of a resort development on Mount Pimard, that will further diversify Saint Lucia’s tourism offering-and-increase local economic opportunities.

A’ila Resorts is a multi-concept development project that will include a wellness centre by TheLifeCo; a blue zone centre that will feature eco-conscious retail and grocery stores; a spa; family-oriented and adults-only spaces; and eco-friendly amenities.

Minister for Tourism, Hon. Dr. Ernest Hilaire, said the resort aims to create engaging experiences that government hopes will redound to the economic benefit of Saint Lucians.

“The new trends in tourism speak of creating immersive and authentic local experiences. That is what the new generation of traveler wants. As a policy, we are encouraging more community-based experiences because we want guests to go out and experience our communities. This is why the Government of Saint Lucia encourages community tourism, Kabawé Krawl, and events tourism—because people want those authentic experiences; and it is to the benefit of a new-age property to create experiences that allow guests to engage with the local population and enjoy the hospitality of Saint Lucians. The developers are committed to introducing that element, so there will be opportunities for Saint Lucians to interact.”

Public Relations Representative for A’ila Resorts in Saint Lucia, Ms. Candy Nicholas, said the 1300 room resort will be developed in phases, on what was formerly the site of the Caribbean Jewel Seven Wonders project.

“If you follow our social media pages you would know that it is a multi-concept development that will start off with TheLifeCo., the wellness offering set to open in a couple months. The original plan was that it would be open by the first quarter of this year but we are working assiduously to ensure that it will be opened by the summer.”

The tourism minister hopes that the concept of the Blue Zone Retail Center will be realized.

“Invest Saint Lucia had quite a few discussions with the developer who agreed to create that retail center within the hotel where Saint Lucian entrepreneurs and local artists can create an experience almost like a marketplace, which will provide them with opportunities to sell to a wider market.”

Minister Hilaire added that unrelated planned developments like the Rodney Bay City Centre will create additional economic activity in the area, and increase economic opportunities for locals.

“The Rodney Bay City Centre which is being built near the marina will result in overall improvements of the Rodney Bay area, and it will bring tremendous economic opportunities for our people. Invest Saint Lucia plays a critical role as the investment agency in Saint Lucia that will ensure that our people are ready to take advantage of these burgeoning opportunities.”