THE CARIBBEAN Hotel Association (CHA) has moved to help regional hoteliers better prepare for the likely adverse impact on the tourism industry should a war break out in the Middle East.
"From the experience of the Gulf War and the aftermath of September 11, 2001, a drop in demand is to be expected," said Dominican hotelier Simon B. Suarez, president of CHA.
"On the one hand, the industry as a whole must be well-prepared to weather a difficult period whose severity will be determined by how protracted or swift is the conflict. On the other hand, it is those that respond proactively with targeted strategies that will have the edge."
The Caribbean Hotel Association said it was moving on two fronts. First, it is encouraging its members to put in place policies that protect visitors whose trip is cancelled or who find themselves stranded in the Caribbean.
Secondly, CHA is developing a public relations contingency plan to minimise the negative impact on the Caribbean hospitality industry, by underscoring the region's key attributes in the current climate, such as its geographical proximity to the United States, safety, and the diverse offerings for families to travel and spend time together.
As a part of the plan CHA has added a section in its website, www.caribbeanhotels. org, to serve as a forum for information exchange for members.
CHA says it is working in co-operation with the Caribbean Tourism Organisation's Response Centre. "In today's turbulent times, we feel more committed than ever to work in conjunction with the public sector for a common approach," said Berthia Parle, chairperson of CHA's Advocacy Committee. "We are encouraging Caribbean Govern-ments to identify and implement support plans. For example, if a hotel offers reduced room rates to a stranded guest, the Government should waive the tax for that room as well."
