Tourism do's and don'ts

August 14, 2002

Dear Sir,

My teenaged daughter and I just returned from a five-night visit to your lovely island. Though our beach time was limited to two wonderful days because of tropical storm Christobal, we had many activities to choose from. I take issue with the contention that there is not much for families.

Using seven day passes, we found the bus/ferry system convenient and comfortable. Also, I think that some of the Island's culture presented as "negatives" by some commentators are actually wholesome, non-contrived things that distinguish Bermuda from many Caribbean or US destinations. Each day, save one, we relished afternoon tea at our hotel, the Rosedon.

The problem the Island is having with sagging tourism concerned us; although minimal crowding was pleasant, we could perceive concern among the friendly Bermudans we met. The conundrum is that everything has to be imported while there is little export, making the Island expensive for natives and discouraging tourism - especially for larger families. We were able to visit the Island aided by a government voucher programme. From my perspective the programme was a success, however, the voucher amount was the same regardless of group size. Such a programme might be structured to encourage larger families to visit. Of course the funds for such a programme must come from somewhere and your Tourism Ministry would have to run the numbers to see if it makes sense. Though scooter rental firms might contest it, another suggestion would be a family transportation pass programme.

There is one negative that must be remedied: apparently drunken vagrants in shop entryways at night. I visited the Island in the 1960s, 70s and 80s and do not recall this. On Monday evening there were some half-dozen down-and-out men scattered among several of the finest shops on Front Street. Visitors do not want to see this and it has the potential to poison their impression of an otherwise marvelous Island.

Perhaps a regular foot patrol is warranted until the problem is solved. Nevertheless, I look forward to returning to Bermuda.

THANE E. BENSON

North Andover, Massachusetts