LETTER OF THE DAY - Potential windfall from hurricanes
published: Saturday | December 3, 2005

THE EDITOR, Sir

IT APPEARS that the past two hurricane seasons (2004 and 2005) of the Western Atlantic region have created a potential windfall (pun intended) for Jamaica and other Caribbean countries. Jamaica has been spared the level of destruction that destinations such as Cayman, Cancun, Cozumel and New Orleans have experienced. While we did not escape totally unscathed, we should, however, give God thanks that we are able to accommodate visitors this tourist season.

Based on a recent Wall Street Journal article (November 29, 2005), the prediction is that many Caribbean locations will see a marked increase in occupancy as well as an increase in prices. I am sure those in the industry are well aware of this trend.

The purpose of this letter is to urge all those concerned, namely public sector, private sector and the general public, to use this opportunity to reclaim market share in the recreational tourism industry. I know that the hotels and attractions are already doing their part, but I am more concerned that the support systems for a good product will be lagging behind.

Road networks, airports and other critical infrastructure need to be repaired. Artisans and craft vendors need to ensure that their items are top quality and that they can get fair access to the tourist shopper. The local and central government agencies also have a major role to ensure that the resort areas are clean, well policed and that visitors are safe from harassment and criminal activity.

It is important, however, that the tourist dollar should find its way into the pockets of the 'small' operators (farmers, fruit vendors, bed and breakfast inns, local restaurants, taxi drivers, fishermen, tour guides, etc.) as this is the only way that a sustainable tourism product can exist. As long as regular Jamaicans feel alienated from the benefits of the tourism industry the problems of harassment will continue.

Someone, please take note, there may be many more tourists visiting this season, let's try to get them to spend some of their time outside the walls of the all-inclusive hotels. If they leave Jamaica with a good impression they may just spread the word.

I am, etc.,

PETER E.T. EDWARDS

pedwards@udel.edu

Graduate Student, Marine

Policy

University of Delaware

Via Go-Jamaica