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MVA mulls having Saipan host its own ‘beach party’
Despite tabling the discussion on a beach party initiative, Marianas Visitors Authority board members have agreed that having a “beach party” similar to those held in other destinations like Mexico during spring break or festival days is good for the CNMI.
At the recommendation of one of its ad-hoc committees, it said that having a beach party with food, entertainment, and alcohol might provide a better experience for visitors and the public as well.
MVA said the CNMI can be a possible destination not only for vacationers but college students as well if they can mimic other destinations like Cabo and Cancun in Mexico, where droves of university students and people looking for a great experience converge.
MVA board chair Marian Aldan-Pierce said she likes the idea of a beach party, but said that MVA should come up with a better and more detailed proposal before any funding could go to the project.
MVA board member Jerry Tan said it is a great idea as a beach scenery at night is a “luxury” for many of the CNMI’s tourists. He said the CNMI’s top three source markets all live in cities where the sky could barely be viewed, with all the tall buildings and bright lights.
“I think this is a great idea, because this is something they don’t experience and for them to do something on the beach like that is a great experience for them. I liked the idea, but I don’t know the basis of $40,000 that is being proposed,” Tan said.
The ad-hoc committee came up with the cost of $40,000 to fund the beach party initiative.
Tan said it would be best if the committee works with the Hotel Association of the Northern Marianas Islands and come up with a design. If it is successful, then the board can decide whether or not they will fund it.
Another recommendation is to have it reflect the traditions and customs of Asia. This includes one of its most celebrated festivals, the Lunar New Year.
Pierce told board members to table the discussions and have HANMI and the committee members meet and provide an input and design for the beach party.
