Bridging tourism and agriculture, the Caribbean Beachfood Festival has been highlighting the rich flavours of Trinidad and Tobago and the wider region.
On Tuesday, the organisers, the University of the West Indies, and Banwari Experience Limited presented the plans for next year’s festival, with agro-tourism at the forefront of the discussions.
Managing Director of the Banwari Experience, Andrew Welch, said one focus is to promote the experience of the people and culture in the Caribbean as one of the drivers of tourism.
“Because of the warmth and hospitality we offer, that has given us the edge. That’s part of the reason why the Caribbean is still as competitive as it is. The base that holds everything together is our people. So our approach to tourism is one where we have been exposing the world to everything that is Trinidad and Tobago. Exposing the world to everything that is Caribbean.”
Dean of UWI’s Faculty of Food and Agriculture, Professor Mark Wuddivira, added that the festival, which will include a symposium, acts as a catalyst for change, representing a commitment to transforming research into policy.
“Sustainable agri-food systems and vibrant tourism are not competing priorities but complementary forces. By leveraging our rich culinary heritage, empowering local farmers, and embedding sustainability into every link of the value chain, we can create a model of inclusive prosperity that the world will admire.”
Along with showcasing the variety of local and regional cuisines, Mr. Welch said the festival allows for an appreciation of what is available locally.
“Tourism is about helping other people appreciate what we have and, by doing so, and over-emphasising what we have, getting our people to understand how important what we have is, how attractive it is. We are not the boastful type. What we were doing is helping local people to appreciate, hey, what you have is big, what you have is important.”
The 2026 Caribbean Beachfood Festival and the Food Security Symposium is scheduled for April 4th and 5th.