Latia Duncombe, Director General in the Ministry of Tourism, Investments, and Aviation, disclosed the country’s tourism performance at the 16th annual Andros Business Outlook conference. Duncombe highlighted that 2019 was a banner year for the Bahamas, welcoming 7.2 million visitors, followed by a record-breaking 9.65 million visitors in 2023, with 2024 expected to surpass that performance.
“We are delighted about how this year is shaping up,” said Duncombe. According to figures presented by the tourism director-general, foreign arrivals in May 2024 increased by 18.6 percent compared to May 2023 and exceeded 2022 levels by 52.2 percent. Foreign arrivals from January to May year-to-date were up by 13.5 percent over the same period in 2023. Foreign air arrivals increased by 3.9 percent from January to May 2024 compared to 2023.
Referring to Andros, she noted its impressive 2023 with 17,000 total visitor arrivals, nearly doubling 2019 numbers.
Duncombe stressed the need to promote unique visitor experiences and quality service.
“No visitor wants more of the same. They want an original experience; that’s what Andros has to offer,” she noted. Duncombe added, “We must continue to deliver quality service. Our visitors are prepared to enjoy the destination; however, our value proposition must be in place.”
