By: Staff Writer
September 29, 2023
The Chairman of the Caribbean Tourism Organisation said that the Caribbean is the leading global tourism destination in his remarks at the “Caribbean World Tourism Day virtual forum.”
Kenneth Bryan, the minister for tourism in the Cayman Islands, also said that creating inclusive opportunities, encouraging entrepreneurship, and supporting community based and grassroots tourism initiatives, the region can promote social unity, reduce inequalities, and create a more equitable and prosperous Caribbean region.
The tourism industry in the Caribbean is roaring back after the hard shut down during 2020-2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The “revenge tourism” was a real thing and even more so, many jurisdictions are now experiencing year round tourism where there is no longer the historically slow period between July to October.
This has led stakeholders to ask for more from the Caribbean in terms of diversifying its product to go beyond sun, sand and sea. But now exploit the cultural and adventure segments of the tourism market.
Mr Bryan also said: “Our breath-taking landscapes, our pristine beaches, and vibrant ecosystems are the lifeblood of our Caribbean tourism product. And it is imperative that we invest in sustainable tourism practices to protect our environment. Preserving the natural beauty of our region should not be seen just as a responsibility, but as a duty.”
Nicola Madden-Greig, president of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association, pushed for more ownership of the industry. “We have seen hundreds and thousands of Caribbean nationals gain employment at all levels, many rise into the very pinnacle of the industry. Some have become owners of micro small and even large tourism related enterprises, which a few are becoming regional and international players. While these achievements are notable, we must continue to ensure our people increase their ownership and fully capitalize on the potential of this industry.”
She also said: “We must continue to ensure our people increase their ownership and fully capitalize on the potential of this industry. This will ensure not just the benefits of today, but to cement the future of our descendants as we work towards ln a platform to drive generational wealth through tourism, at CHTA our focus is on ensuring tourism is positioned to open these doors to more Caribbean nationals to become even greater stakeholders in the industry.”
Caribbean national owned hotels range from the 5 room bed and breakfast rooms to the multi-roomed chains like Breezes or Sandals, they all have a place in the tourism chain.
Keeping Caribbean tourism moving forward will need all of the stakeholders, working together to ensure that there are beds for heads that want to visit the region.