Impact of Hurricane Dorian on Tourism Sector Business

“Many tourism businesses in our family islands, the majority of which were also wholly untouched by Dorian,  close during this period as part of their regular business operation, therefore the immediate impact is negligible in these scenarios; however, going forward it is expected that they too will feel some softening in bookings for the coming months.”

Tourism stakeholders, in communication with the BHTA, stress the need to ensure internal and external communicators including international media, press, social media platforms, influencers, newspaper outlets, have access to, and relay accurate information about the impact of Hurricane Dorian on The Bahamas including the specificity of islands affected.

“It is vital that the world market understand The Bahamas, which is an archipelago comprised of over 700 islands spread over 100,000 square miles of ocean, remains largely untouched by the passing of Hurricane Dorian. It is even more important to relay the message that the influx of tourism dollars is the best form of aid and relief anyone can offer the people of The Bahamas affected by Hurricane Dorian” states Russell.

The mantra, “we are our brothers and sisters keeper” could not be more real as locals in and outside the hospitality industry, welcome with open arms, displaced friends and relatives, even strangers, into their own homes; as hardworking public sector representatives house grateful evacuees, effectively and efficiently in government run shelters; as the tourism sector owners and operators of tourism dependent businesses; their management and team members engage in ongoing relief efforts and initiatives. The sheer magnitude of the assistance rendered locally and internationally has been unbelievable, we are eternally grateful.

The road to recovery for areas affected in Abaco and Grand Bahama is now being paved.  We have been asked, how can the world help in a sustainable manner? – The answer is unequivocal: By coming to our shores to enjoy the beauty of our islands, the warmth of our people, the flavor of our food and drink, our unique culture, customs, music and art. This way the world is helping us to help ourselves.”

Carlton Russell,
President of the Bahamas Hotel & Tourism Association (BHTA)