Concerns over the BVI’s tourism product and the need for more holistic investments in the sector were raised by Hon. Julien Fraser, Member for the Third District, during a recent session of the House of Assembly.
While acknowledging the Territory’s natural assets of “Sand, Sea and Air” as appealing to visitors, Fraser questioned whether this alone constitutes a comprehensive tourism product.
He highlighted the poor condition of the BVI’s roads as a shared challenge for both locals and tourists.
The issue, according to Fraser, extends beyond just road infrastructure, as he stressed the importance of broader beautification efforts. He noted past initiatives undertaken by the former premier that were effective in his view, despite facing criticism at the time.
Turning his attention to the Tourist Board, Fraser questioned the entity’s mandate, emphasizing several areas in need of attention that one could expect to fall under the Board’s purview.
Comparing the BVI’s limited airlift schedule at the TB Lettsome International Airport to neighbouring islands, Fraser pointed to the investments and efforts made by governments in St. Kitts and Nevis, Saint. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Antigua and Barbuda to encourage airlines and increase flight availability.
Fraser lamented that the approach to tourism appears unintentional and in need of development for the territory to reap the benefits of the sector.