THERE is nothing quite like celebrating Christmas in Guyana, and incoming passengers at the country’s major ports of entry, including the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), the Moleson Creek crossing, and the Ogle International Airport, were treated to a taste of the traditional Guyanese black cake.

According to the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA), over the last few days, it had several teams fan out across the country to welcome visitors in true Guyanese fashion, and to spread Christmas cheer.

The exercise saw more than 200 passengers arriving on the Canawaima Ferry from Suriname on Sunday afternoon and being pleasantly surprised at finding a special treat awaiting them in Guyana. And, though surprised, many expressed the hope that the activity will continue throughout the year.
The feeling of excitement also permeated the air at the CJIA on Monday morning, as some 300 passengers were welcomed with a slice of the ubiquitous Guyanese black cake, compliments of the Ministry of Tourism and the GTA. And, much to their delight, the festive momentum was kept going by CJIA’s Santa and his personal one-man band with their unique brand of Christmas spirit.

Also on hand to liven things up even more were the Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL)’s ‘El Dorado ladies’; and Edward Beharry’s Chico Man and his beautiful helpers.
The visitors arriving through the Ogle International Airport Monday afternoon were not exempt from this annual activity, and close to 100 men, women and children were treated.
GTA says it was the first time that a ‘Christmas Welcome’ was ever staged at both Moleson Creek and the Ogle Airport.
And with only two days to go before ‘The Big Day’, all visitors were welcomed to the destination, and invited to discover the gem that is ‘Guyana, South America Undiscovered’, and to experience Christmas, Guyanese style.