POOR STANDARDS, ALL THE WAY

The tourist industry that was booming for many years in this country encouraged lots to invest in building large and boutique hotels, luxury and semi luxury villas etc., to accommodate the visitors.  This gave the tourists the opportunity to book places according to their budgets. However, since the Easter attacks followed by the Covid pandemic and the continued shenanigans going on in this country,tourists are wary about visiting our island.

Owing to not having guests, the upkeep of these establishments have been difficult and most places are run down. Many are unkempt. Even if the owners wish to refurbish their establishments, the current prices of basics like paint, furniture fabrics etc., have sky- rocketed, making it prohibitive for many to do so. The erosion of the beaches due to sand mining and other goings on have ruined the southern coastline. There are hardly any beaches left with the sea beating into the beach properties.

To top it all, the exodus of all hotel staff, from top management, chefs, serving and housekeeping staff, engineering etc.,to greener pastures overseas has brought down the entire industry to substandard levels, which are very visible. To cope with the mediocre quality of service is not pleasant either to the foreign visitors or locals who can afford to patronise these establishments.  One does not want to go for a holiday spending big money to experience an unpleasant and uncomfortable time. Owners must see to keeping their staff by paying them well.  Also, maintaining standards and the upkeep of the building and serving tasty palatable food are essential for the industry to boom. 

Sub standards will only bring the back packers into this country, since the choices of having a holiday in Asia are aplenty, where excellent service and exotic hotels, villas and exciting entertainment are on offer and delivered to the visitor. 

The promoters of tourism in this country should up their game to make this country a prime destination to visit and do away with the sub standard levels being offered currently.