It is no secret that the tourism and hospitality industry was one of the hardest hit in the covid19 pandemic. With the world shuttering itself indoors over the past two years, the industry which depended heavily on the movement and gathering of people suffered tremendously.
But as vaccinations and public health measures slowed the spread of the virus, the tourism and hotel industry is beginning to recover worldwide.
The same could be said for Tobago, with occupancy levels expected to hit 95 per cent in October thanks in no small part to the upcoming carnival, and occupancy, in general, heading beyond 50 per cent for the rest of the year.
However, there are still hurdles that the tourism industry must overcome. With inflation and price volatility, debt accrued during the lockdown and concerns over global economic shocks, many are calling for support and strategy out of the THA to guide businesses to recovery.
Winston Pereira, second-generation owner of Miller’s Guest House on Buccoo Bay Road, is excited for the rest of the year starting with the carnival on October 28 and the many pre-events.
“As soon as everything was finalised and the date was announced people flocked to the hotels and guest houses,” he said. “Considering from where we were, things have been really good. We have had more than 50 per cent occupancy in June which is good, especially during a slow period such as June and July.
Periera said there have been increases across the board as compared to the last two years when occupancy and revenue were almost at zero. He said domestically, interest and occupancy remained consistent, but he was looking forward to the winter months – December-April – when foreigners would visit the island.
“There is definitely going to be a credit crunch because of the energy issues, but if foreigners have an opportunity to escape and avoid that day-to-day conundrum of worrying about heat, I think they would take it and there would be a good turnout.”
Tobago Hoteliers Association vice president Carol-Ann Birchwood-James said occupancy during the July/August holiday was at a high and expected momentum as the year progresses. She added that British Airways’ flights to Tobago have remained consistent.
[caption id="attachment_975143" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Melani Birusingh, left, and US resident Anna Parsons, right, have fun with gorilla characters at the launch of Tobago carnival on Saturday. - DAVID REID[/caption]
While there were many factors contributing to the turnaround, the THA and Central Government have assisted the industry, especially during the shut-down periods. In last year’s budget, financial assistance was provided for guest houses and hotels to upgrade under the Tourism Accommodation Upgrade Programme which, according to Birchwood-James, refunded hoteliers 50 per cent of the costs of refurbishing hotel rooms and accommodation, improving the room stock. The opening of Comfort Inn and Suites, in August, which provided 74 rooms – 20 of which are suites, added to this.
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