NASSAU, BAHAMAS- Bahamas Hotel and Tourism Association President Jackson Weech says the country’s tourism industry is on pace for a strong summer season, with major hotels in New Providence and Paradise Island already seeing bookings stretch into early July.
In an interview with Eyewitness News,Weech said the larger properties continue to benefit from “a very, very strong base,” supported by steady stay-over demand and transient visitors.
“To a very large extent, that business augmented by the transient segment extends all the way into June and early July,” he said.
He added: “It’s my expectation, it’s our expectation that we’ll have a very strong Q2 and certainly a great, great foundation for Q3.”
Despite the positive outlook, Weech acknowledged that global developments could still impact the tourism sector during the summer months.
“There are still some factors that are beyond our control that has the potential to impact our overall business picture,” he said, pointing to geopolitical tensions and rising oil prices.
Weech noted that increasing jet fuel costs could lead to more expensive airline tickets, but suggested that changing travel patterns may ultimately work in The Bahamas’ favour.
“I think individuals will continue to travel, and it may be that as opposed to crossing the proverbial pond, they would come to destinations that are that much closer in,” he said.
“Obviously The Bahamas would be one of the closest points, certainly to the American coastline.”
He also said cruise tourism is expected to remain stable due to the country’s close proximity to the United States and strong connectivity through both airlift and cruise travel.
