Improve Tourism website

January 7, 2009

Dear Sir,

You would expect that Bermuda Tourism and the management of properties that rely on the Tourism website would periodically check the site to insure the information is up to date and accurate. If one goes to the Tourism website it is obvious that no one checks it, most of the information is out of date. Today, the site is offering a $300 Companion Air Credit. Only one problem – the deal expired March 31, 2008. There is no information on the upcoming International Love Festival, in five weeks. Most people like to search out potential holiday destinations well in advance even though they may delay making a reservation they have made their decision. The rates shown on the website for the various properties is very misleading too.

Those who are looking for a holiday destination and go to the Tourism website will find it outdated and confusing and no doubt will pass on Bermuda as their choice. Even in good economic times the Bermuda Tourism website would not encourage potential visitors to choose Bermuda. Looking at the useless Tourism website and some of the poor deals the hotels are offering, there should be no surprises that Bermuda tourism is declining faster than the economy. How hard can it be for Tourism and hotel management to understand that in these tough economic times it is critical to be competitive and keep Bermudians employed? All the dollars the Government spends on consultants, outside services, banners at Mets games and they can't maintain a Tourism website that will attract tourists, sad.

EVE MERMAN

Toronto, Ontario

Editor's Note: The tourism website has been updated since this letter was written.