A project to place signs with QR codes on monuments (see Thursday edition) was kicked off in Curaçao. The pilot aims to offer passers-by a technical description, brief history, architectural details and, of course, pictures of each.
This is not only a way of providing easily-accessible on-location information to visitors and residents alike, but will serve as promotional tool when they share the text and images. Also considering that Willemstad is on the United Nations Education, Science and Culture Organisation (UNESCO) World Heritage List, this move seems to make good sense.
In St. Maarten too there were extensive plans not too long ago for signage at historical sights especially in and around Philipsburg. To what extent this was done or what happened with the no-doubt-well-intended initiative is not entirely clear.
In any case an updated version would be advisable in this digital day and age. If European or Dutch funding is available for such an educational endeavour on behalf of the community all the better, but its potential value for the dominant hospitality industry should not be underestimated.
In fact, the example set by Curaçao is relevant for the French side and other islands too, including St. Eustatius and Saba where this newspaper is also published. They too have noteworthy things to show and stories to tell their guests.
Travellers are increasingly attracted to more than just sun, sand and sea. They show a heightened interest in the people, culture and social aspects of vacation destinations.
The term “heritage tourism” reflects that trend.
