The island nation’s tourism and airport groups have started putting arriving passengers at Point Saline’s International Airport into carnival spirit as early as August 1 for the ongoing Spicemas Carnival 2006, which officially commenced on August 5.

The Grenada Board of Tourism (GBT), in collaboration with the Grenada Airports Authority began they pre-carnival “Meet and Greet” program for arriving passengers at the Airport with support from two local companies which produces internationally known drinks.

The Grenada Breweries Ltd, producer of Carib and Carlsburg beers, and Grenada Bottling Company, producer of Coco Cola, are supplying drinks to all arriving passengers.

GBT public relations officers Edwin Frank said, “The Grenada Board of Tourism recognizes that this annual hospitality program inspires arriving passengers to enter the psyche of the approaching carnival celebrations with a greater sense of purpose and glee.”

Frank said he believes that this form of welcome, which is also mixed with local entertainment from steel bands and calypso singing, highlights the genuine warmth and hospitality of the Grenadian people.

“By maintaining this initiative, the Grenada Board of Tourism is ensuring that it plays its part to make this celebration one that is in keeping with past traditions, and that also paves the way for another enjoyable visit to Grenada,” Frank said.

The months of July and August are the busiest at the airport as hundreds are expected to enter the island via Point Salines Airport, with the majority from the United States of America, Europe and Caricom markets.  The visitors are mainly to participate in activities for Spicemas 2006, which will end on August 15 with a parade of bands on the streets of main towns in the island.