THE EDITOR, Sir:I WOULD like to address a public comment by Mr. Kingsley Thomas (January 6 Gleaner) which dismisses out-of-hand the value of community tourism for Jamaica (and by extension, presumably also precludes an acknowledgement of the value of eco-tourism, nature, culture and heritage tourism among other expanding community-tourism-related demographic categories).
A few years ago, I ran across an industry statistic which stated that by the year 2050, it is estimated that as many as 70 per cent of international travellers will travel specifically to visit "wilderness areas".
The market share of sand-sea and urban tourism (e.g. Paris, London, New York) is clearly shifting downward.
Who does Mr. Thomas think is going to carry visitors to these wilderness areas - that is, if we have any wilderness areas left?
Does Mr. Thomas understand that the multiplier effect is three to four times higher for money spent in communities by tourists, as opposed to money spent in an all-inclusive?
The ramifications for our economy are positively monumental and should not be discounted (pun intended).
Communities protect their bread and butter, and will protect 'their' tourists.
Does Mr. Thomas also understand that keeping money in a community will result in a multitude of benefits to the Jamaican people (not just the big players) and likely at least some drop in the level of crime? Is it too far to reach to realize that a drop in crime will also benefit the 'big man dem'?
On the matter of casino gambling, I suggest that we follow in the steps of Turks and Caicos - no locals are allowed in the casinos except to work. That way, this kind of gambling cannot suck off of our local economy.
Come again, Mr. Thomas. Community tourism in its myriad forms is a viable option for our industry and indeed more valuable to Jamaica than any foreign-owned hotel chain dotting our already overrun and polluted coastline.
With all respect, sir, as a matter of urgency and moral obligation, and for the sake of this beloved country's well-being, please remove your head from the sand.
I am, etc.,
'PEOPLE'S ADVOCATE'
Washington Drive, Kingston 10
