By Kisean Joseph
Kickboxing led by Kevinia Francis of Team Antigua Island Girls, and a mindful meditation practice guided by local astronaut Keisha Schahaff, are among a diverse list of forthcoming activities designed to promote well-being and sustainability.
The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority has curated a programme – running from Friday to Sunday – for World Wellness Week that not only caters to visitors but also emphasises the importance of wellness for the local community.
The sister island of Barbuda is also included in the line-up of events, with free health screenings, a nutritional talk, a community coastal clean-up, and a ‘movie on the lawn’ event at the Fisheries Complex.
The eighth edition of World Wellness Weekend is set to be observed in 160 countries worldwide.
Tourism bosses hope that Antigua and Barbuda’s participation will showcase the destination’s natural assets to a global audience of wellness-minded travellers.
Tameka Wharton, team lead for the initiative, told Observer, “By associating ourselves with over 9,000 different venues in more than 100 countries focused on wellness-generated activity, we’re reinforcing our marketing message that Antigua and Barbuda has all the necessary assets for those seeking wellness vacations or looking to infuse wellness into their travel experiences.”
The weekend kicks off with a tree-planting exercise at the Christian Agricultural Centre on Friday at 9am.
“The tree-planting initiative stems from both wellness and sustainability concerns,” Wharton elaborated.
“As a destination, we need to ensure we can feed ourselves. It also contributes to addressing the climate crisis, supporting our green corridors, and positioning Antigua and Barbuda as a sustainable destination.”
The programme continues with a variety of activities catering to different interests and fitness levels. An early morning road hike from Cedar Grove playing field at 5am on September 21 offers participants a chance to explore the island’s diverse terrain.
Wharton emphasised the breadth of offerings saying, “This shows that we have a plethora of opportunities for different calibres of persons, no matter what their wellness level or interest is.”
The schedule also includes a family fun day on Saturday at the John E St Luce Financial & Conference Centre, featuring games, activities, and educational talks for all ages, as well as showcasing young local talent.
The Tourism Authority hopes these events will have a lasting impact on the community.
“It’s important that our wellness messaging reaches the community,” Wharton stated. “This is why we’re ensuring that the community takes hold of their wellness and participates in the activities offered this weekend.”
She extended an invitation to locals, adding, “Come on out and let’s come together as a community to show the world why Antigua and Barbuda is not just a place for visitors but for our people as well to enjoy all the wellness facets that are here.”
Visit www.visitantiguabarbuda.com/world-wellness-weekend-2024 for the full schedule of events.
