The people of St Lucia are taking part in a 'pro-poor tourism' project called the 'St Lucia Heritage Tourism Programme'. By developing a new branch of tourist attractions, the project could change the face of tourism on the whole island.

In the past, tourism in St Lucia has concentrated in certain areas where there are all-inclusive resorts owned by a few large operators and where cruise ship passengers come onshore for a brief visit. People living elsewhere on the island received few of the benefits of their visitors.

Working in partnership with local communities, the government is developing new cultural attractions that take advantage of the skills of poorer communities in farming, fishing, cooking and arts & crafts. By diversifying the island's attractions, the project hopes to tempt tourists out of their resorts, and encourage cruise ship passengers to stay on the island for longer. At the same time, the attractions promote the island's culture, so their visitors learn that there is more to St Lucia than sun, sea and sand.

One part of the project is a seafood extravaganza at Anse Le Raye. Here, tourists can sample the taste of St Lucia cuisine cooked by local chefs. Whilst their visitors enjoy the food, local communities can make a profit. Working together in planning these attractions strengthens community spirit too.

With more money in their pockets, local people are likely to spend more on other goods and services, giving the entire economy a booSt But to ensure success in the long-term, EU funding of the project pays for training people in business and marketing skills. This way, local communities can develop high quality attractions that meet international health and safety standards. Also, these new skills enable local people to stand on their own two feet, giving them a better chance of competing with the more experienced tour operators even when the project funds have dried up.

Progress is slow as it takes time to change the well-established pattern of resort and cruise ship activities. Nevertheless, communities involved in the 'St Lucia Heritage Tourism Programme' are better off than before.

Visit www.propoortourism.org.uk for more information and case studies of Pro-Poor Tourism.