Projected Economic Benefits of Resort Development at Mount Pimard, Saint Lucia

Saint Lucia anticipates a significant boost to its tourism sector and local economy with the phased development of A’ila Resorts, a multi-concept project on Mount Pimard, the former site of the Caribbean Jewel Seven Wonders project. This ambitious undertaking promises to diversify the island’s tourism offerings and create numerous opportunities for local businesses and entrepreneurs. The resort’s features are designed to cater to a wide range of interests, from wellness enthusiasts to families and eco-conscious travelers.

A core element of A’ila Resorts is TheLifeCo, a wellness centre poised to open in the summer of 2024. This facility will offer a range of health and wellness services and programs, tapping into the growing global trend of wellness tourism. Beyond TheLifeCo, the resort will also incorporate a Blue Zone center, a unique concept focused on promoting healthy lifestyles and sustainability. This area will feature eco-conscious retail stores, grocery options, and a spa, creating a holistic wellness experience for guests. The resort will further diversify its offerings with dedicated spaces for families and adults, ensuring a tailored experience for all visitors. Eco-friendly amenities will be woven throughout the resort, reflecting a commitment to sustainable tourism practices.

The development of A’ila Resorts aligns with the Saint Lucian government’s tourism strategy, which emphasizes immersive and authentic local experiences. Minister for Tourism, Hon. Dr. Ernest Hilaire, underscored the importance of creating opportunities for visitors to engage with local communities and culture. This approach resonates with the preferences of modern travelers, who are increasingly seeking genuine connections with the destinations they visit. The resort’s design and programming will facilitate these interactions, creating economic benefits for Saint Lucians while enriching the tourist experience. Initiatives like community tourism, the Kabawé Krawl, and events tourism further demonstrate the government’s dedication to fostering authentic cultural experiences and economic opportunities for local communities.

The phased development of the 1300-room resort will commence with TheLifeCo, followed by other components such as the Blue Zone Retail Center. This center is a key element of the project, envisioned as a marketplace for Saint Lucian entrepreneurs and artists. It will provide a platform for local businesses to showcase their products and services to a broader market, thereby stimulating economic activity and supporting local talent. The collaboration between Invest Saint Lucia and the developers highlights the government’s commitment to ensuring that Saint Lucians benefit directly from these investment opportunities. The retail center underscores the resort’s dedication to integrating local businesses into its operations, creating a mutually beneficial relationship and enhancing the authenticity of the guest experience.

Beyond A’ila Resorts, other planned developments, such as the Rodney Bay City Centre near the marina, promise further economic growth and opportunities for locals. The Rodney Bay City Centre development is expected to significantly revitalize the area, creating a vibrant hub for businesses and leisure activities. This project, along with A’ila Resorts, will contribute to the overall enhancement of Saint Lucia’s tourism product and strengthen its appeal to a wider range of visitors. Invest Saint Lucia plays a crucial role in facilitating these developments and ensuring that local communities are equipped to capitalize on the emerging opportunities, fostering sustainable and inclusive economic growth.

The combined impact of A’ila Resorts and other planned developments signals a promising future for Saint Lucia’s tourism sector and its economy. By prioritizing authentic local experiences, sustainable practices, and community engagement, these projects aim to create a positive and lasting impact on the island and its people. The government’s commitment to supporting these initiatives, coupled with the dedication of developers and Invest Saint Lucia, sets the stage for a prosperous future for Saint Lucian tourism. The focus on creating opportunities for local businesses and entrepreneurs ensures that the benefits of these developments are shared widely, fostering a sustainable and inclusive approach to economic growth.