Submitted by Yardbroom
The present economic downturn in the fortunes of Barbados has led to a plethora of bad news. It “appears” that this news is dispensed with relish by some observers; most of whom believe what they say and to be fair are often not malicious with intent. It would be silly of me to pretend things are not uncertain and that remedies should not be sought – which will be painful – but our fortunes are not dire.
It is imperative that in this uncertain climate, we review our positions and seek to redress the malaise which has surreptitiously crept in during the recent good times. By this I mean our “attitude” to those who travel in many cases thousands of miles to visit our shores and in turn spend thousands of pounds, dollars or marks, in much needed foreign exchange, on which we depend.
We have not made enough effort over the years to protect and encourage those who visit us, and to address this there should be a sea change. There should be a genuine “welcome” mat and that does not just mean saying we are open for business. The man/woman who carries the luggage at the airport, the taxi drivers, the immigration officers, the receptionists at the hotels. Remember you “represent” Barbados, you “the people” are the best Barbados has to offer.
Never forget there are palm trees and beautiful beaches in many parts of the world, often a-glow with sunshine. Barbados is not alone in this regard, however we can be alone in giving a special kind of service and a welcome that makes people want to be among us. That is the “key”, people should want to be in Barbados and when they are, should be assured of a warm welcome and be relaxed and at ease in our company.
In the uncertain times when you see the reality of your position, it is easier to get all hands to the pumps. It is best not to take a political stance or try to score points but to put country first. Politicians will always be politicians, that is their business to seek advantage. They cannot be blamed for so doing, but the general populace and business people in general, should have a different agenda.
In our main tourists market – the UK – things are beginning to be on the up. Employment has started to improve, house purchases have started to climb again, due to confidence in the market. Another factor is recent Government initiatives in the mortgage market. Harsh much needed government measures like a reduction in expenditure across the board, despite much anguish are now starting to bear fruit. In addition the Governor of The Bank Of England has publicly stated that interest rates will stay low until at least the next general election, unless the unemployment rate changes dramatically.
Barbados needs to hold the line and be “prudent” for the good times will return but when they do we must be well positioned to take advantage of them and taking that advantage means we must get things in order now.
“Genuinely” welcome the tourists, and let them be at ease in our company and among us. We have not got to be captains of industry or hoteliers to play our part. This is our Barbados, the future is bright the future is Barbados:let it be a place of hope.
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