BTB hosts Tourism Transportation Workshop

Belize City February 8th, 2017 – On February 3rd BTB commenced an extensive workshop for taxi tour guides currently operating in the Fort Street Tourism Zone. A total of thirty-four (34) taxi drivers benefitted from the training which aimed at developing and enhancing their skills; knowledge and professional conduct.

The workshop was derived after a survey conducted within the zone, determined that there was a high level of demand, interest and participation for training. The overarching objective was to ensure a high quality of service delivery is achieved within the transportation industry and by extension to the tourism industry; with a rewarding and valuable experience for all visitors to our shore.The facilitator of the workshop Ms. Sharon Banfield-Bovell offers a comprehensive background in tourism with her specialization in Sustainable Tourism Development, Policy Formation, Human Resources Development, Tourism Development and Strategic Planning.

• At the conclusion of the workshop participants were equipped to:
• Recognize the various roles played by taxi drivers as Tourism Ambassadors for the country
• Explain the importance of tourism to Belize’s economy and the Caribbean
• Understand the importance of customer service and service quality
• Define customer service excellence and understand it’s importance in tourism
• List and explain the principles of quality customer care
• Discuss tourism trends as it relates to today’s tourism consumer
• Share accurate facts and information about the country and its tourism products
• Explain how to develop and deliver an effective commentary as a tour guide
• Design and put into practice a personal action plan to improve the quality of services to the visitor
• Demonstrate best practice as it relates to the delivery of quality service in taxi operations.

The workshop was held on February 3^rd, 4^th and 5^th at the ITVET compound in Belize City and in addition to appropriate theories; also took an interactive and participatory format.

BTB recognizes and embraces the role of the transportation sector as a contributor to the success of tourism and is pleased to work with this sector; to enhance its professionalism and productivity.