Guadeloupe is introducing new hospitality programs for cruise passengers for the 2009/2010 season, according to Destination Guadeloupe Islands. For passengers disembarking in Pointe-a-Pitre guides known as “Ameritouristes” will be positioned throughout the town offering assistance; there will also be a new city map marked with recommended stores; and also offered will be tours in carts pulled by oxen.

Ameritouristes

Thirty bilingual young men and women will be recruited and stationed in groups of three at posts throughout Pointe-a-Pitre. Their function will be to offer information, directions and in general be helpful to passengers. The guides will be able to communicate via walkie talkies and will wear yellow polo shirts so they will be easily recognizable. Starting in November, the Ameritouristes will work from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. for the duration of the season.

Map of the town

In October, a new map of Pointe-a-Pitre will be introduced that is not only useful, but also fun, according to Guadeloupe. The fun theme is based on pirates and a treasure hunt. There will also be a partnership with selected stores that will carry a sign offering 10 percent discounts and be marked on the map. The objective is to improve the quality of shopping in Pointe-a-Pitre. Other shopping projects are being studied

Visiting Pointe-a-Pointe in an oxen- drawn cart

Starting in December will be tours of the town in carts pulled by oxen. According to Guadeloupe, having passengers visit the town will be its first priority, so that passengers will be able to taste local specialties, such as sugar cane juice, coconut milk, rum, coffee, ice cream, and more. This type of transportation is said to be symbolic of the sugar cane industry and will create a link between the islands’ past and the present. The cruise passengers will be able to get onboard the carts as they disembark their ship. The tours will terminate in the middle of town.