Ins & Outs of SVG 2020

W elcome to this special part of the world that we are blessed to call home. We warmly invite you to enjoy a real Vincy experience by participating in our happy island lifestyle - embrace our rich and diverse cultural heritage, mix with our warm-hearted people, eat our delicious and wholesome food, savour our local drinks, discover our unique arts and craft, dance to the infectious rhythm of our music, dip your toes in the sand, relax, unwind and chill. We also encourage you to immerse yourself in the precious world of our beautiful natural environment on land and at sea. Ranging from La Soufrière volcano, through lushly vegetated mountain slopes and valleys, to some of the most spectacular ocean scenery and dive locations on the planet, our islands offer a rare treasure trove of untouched back-to-nature experiences. In recognition of its pristine waters, flourishing reefs and rich marine biodiversity – including dolphins and whales that can be seen year round - the Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Marine Area has been designated as one of the world’s few Hope Spots by the renowned oceanographer and environmentalist Dr. Sylvia Earle and her ‘Mission Blue’ organisation. Hope Spots are considered ecologically unique and critical to the health of the oceans, so it is essential that we protect and preserve our invaluable national asset. The Government is playing its part by enacting legislation to ban activities like turtle/turtle egg harvesting, parrot fish harvesting and shark fin fishing. Our people are playing their part by respecting those laws and educating others about the vitally important influence that our fragile natural environment has on our everyday life and sustainable livelihood. And you too can play your part. Please do nothing to harm the natural environment, dispose of your garbage in designated areas, conserve energy and water, avoid single-use plastics, buy local/eat local, don’t purchase souvenirs made with materials from endangered species, and choose responsible tour operators that practice sustainability. Be adventurous, enjoy life Vincy style, but please only leave behind your footprints in the sand. and the entire Miller Publishing Team Photo: Canyon Duncan Bequia 11 11 INS OUT