‘Happy Children in Paradise’ launched

The Marianas Visitors Authority yesterday disclosed that the Babauta Administration has vowed to infuse additional funds into the agency’s promotional activities geared toward the family market.

In line with this, the MVA announced the introduction of the annual locally based promotional campaigns, including the Happy Children in Paradise program, which hopes to revive the Commonwealth’s tourism industry.

With the support of tourist-related businesses on the island such as the Pacific Development Inc., the MVA has launched a locally based promotional program that will start in June 2002 and will run until September 2002.

MVA acting managing director Vicky Benavente said the program offers children a chance to get a Saipanda doll and other special Saipanda memorabilia.

“Participating hotels in Saipan, Rota, and Tinian will give all tourists under 12 years of age, a special edition Saipanda gift. Children who will arrive on the island during that period may even find Saipanda waiting for them at the airports,” said Benavente.

The “Get Saipanda” goodie bag giveaway is part of the MVA’s overall effort to give arriving tourists a warm reception. Benavente said that, with hotels offering family-oriented activities, tourists will enjoy their stay in the Commonwealth.

“Some hotels even offer computer games and arts and crafts, all designed to entertain “Happy Children in Paradise.” Taga Kids Triathlon will be offered for children to participate in a fun activity,” she added.

In addition to this, the MVA will also capitalize on the weekly Garapan Street Market, which is aimed at entertaining family-visitors, who will be introduced to local food and culture.

The MVA also said that a La Fiesta Summer Bash Carnival, the Children’s Fishing Derby and the Annual Kid’s Art Exhibit, will make the Happy Children in Paradise program a success for the summer.

Aside from promotional activities for the children, MVA also announced that Saipan will offer five championship golf courses, scuba diving, world-class shopping, and dining, fishing, jungle tours, and a string of activities, that will encourage even adults to prefer the Northern Marianas as a family destination.

From Japan alone, the CNMI played host to more than 12,500 children during the first phase of the program from June to September 2001. During the said period, the MVA recorded 16,504 children who took part in the program.