The Bahamas’ tourism industry is “well positioned for continued recovery,” according to the country’s new Tourism Minister, Chester Cooper. 

Cooper, who is also the Minister of Investments and Aviation, said the country’s momentum comes as international travel restrictions begin to ease, spurred by an increase in vaccine accessibility. 

That’s along with a rise in scheduled airlift to The Bahamas, and the return of the cruise industry. 

Cooper was speaking on World Tourism Day, a day he said was “quite poignant.” 

“Like many Caribbean destinations, tourism is the heartbeat of The Bahamas and as we say, it is everyone’s business,” Cooper said. “Our beaches are breathtaking, and the water is so clear you can see it from space, but that is not what defines us. Rather, it is every individual person who shapes the Bahamas experience and stands to benefit from tourism’s success. I am committed to creating jobs and opportunities for all Bahamians and to help our great nation heal.”

The Bahamas reported nearly 500,000 visitors in the first half of 2021, according to the country’s Ministry of Tourism. 

“While we have faced an uphill battle during these unprecedented times, we must stay focused and optimistic as the world begins to reopen,” said Cooper, who is also the country’s Deputy Prime Minister. “I join with leaders throughout the Caribbean to elevate the importance of social inclusion, sustainability and smart destinations and businesses. Our beautiful country, and our beloved Caribbean region, will prosper again and continue to progress, as in the words of the motto of The Bahamas:  Forward, Upward, Onward, Together.”

— CJ