Letter: The vision for tourism is blurred at best

Dear Sir,

If a person goes down the same road, there is no expectation of a different result...

I have looked at the potential plans of both the government and the Corporation of Hamilton and their ideas of taking us forward. I foresee utter failure ahead.

They are both targeting the same small group of people to produce our golden egg. But the ultra-elite wealthy of the world do not view Bermuda as the locale of choice.

And besides, Bermudians are more educated today — so who will be the servant types who provide service en-masse to these elite tourists? Perhaps it is those persons working here now, from countries where a dollar goes much further.

A deception is being thrust on us. 

Bermuda missed the window back in the days when the Bahamas and similar destinations focused specifically on creating that unique experience for the ultra-elite wealthy world tourist.  We could not see that window the leaders and land rich descendants of the previous generations saw immediate financial value in focusing on what is now known as international business.

Bermuda had entertainment venues up and down this island to cater to our tourists. The city of Hamilton, the town of St George and Somerset village were bustling with activity every night. 

In these institutions of enjoyment, Bermudians honed their talents of entertainment for a life of quality service. 

Dubai, Morocco, Monaco, Jamaica, Switzerland, the Caribbean, South America, China, Thailand, even India — where who do you think our key competition lies? All of these countries and others have long since been preparing for the same ultra-wealthy tourist. 

Bermudians must come together and resist the existing plans before there is nothing of value left in our homeland.

I urge you — do not wait until it is too far down the road. Are you intent to sit on the side and do nothing? 

You must look in the mirror and ask that person now, today, while there is still a purpose. 

John H. Holdipp III

Pembroke