We were fortunate to miss Hurricane Lee’s calling card. Her sheer size and the winds she packed were reminiscent of Hurricane Irma which, without effort, brought BVI to its knees.
One minute, the Territory was existing proudly in the stratosphere and the next, she was laid low. Perhaps only the fall from grace of the son of the morning was more dramatic and immediate.
The world wanted to help. We received significant pledges, most of which we ignored, some, we did not have the structures to accept and, in any case, we wanted to rise, from the rubble, on our own.
The journey back was difficult but it tells the story of our fighting spirit, the will to survive.
Of course, our private sector was stalwart and we could never have emerged as gold tried in the fire without its significant input.
For while Financial Services sustained the government and a small cohort of the work force, tourism, which was laid low, is responsible for much of our livelihood.
Those were dark days that we hope never to relive.
Tourism.
We should recognize it as our golden goose and we must do all that we can to protect it. There is too much tinkering around the edges.
For starters, we must be welcoming. All of us! These may appear to be words on the wind but there is a gulf of a difference between service and servitude. And, unless we get it right, we may be cheating ourselves out of our full share of the tourism pie.
Our economy is based on service industries. Around the world where tourism is important, people have learnt to give good service as part of a professional package. Why can’t we?
And we should be responsible with our words. Tourists read our online news and blogs to get a feel for what is happening in situ prior to and after travel. Often, the content is shocking and lets BVI down.
Blogging has become a national pastime and because bloggers are usually nameless and faceless, generally, they are careless with their words. And this does incalculable harm to the reputation of the Territory.
We have said it before, it is imperative that we clean up the BVI and keep her clean. The service clubs and youth groups help. The government is stretched so we all should get involved.
What really works for us is the Territory’s matchless, natural beauty. It is stunning to see the islands from the windows of an aircraft.
That is enhanced by the boating experience which is second to none and the plethora of coves and sandy beaches that provide the perfect opportunity equally for an adventurous spirit as for a spirit seeking rest and relaxation.
Environmental protection and preservation will help to keep generations of tourists returning to the BVI. Marketing the territory is imperative as well as good access by air and sea.
We have lots to do to protect our share of the tourism pie and it calls for all hands on deck.
Tourism is everyone’s business.
We know that by experience and even without a discussion on Fridays.
Happy Friday!