Ochi tourism concerns

President of the St. Ann Chamber of Commerce Horace Wildes said the effect of the global financial downturn on the parish’s tourism product is worsening.



Mr. Wildes said several hoteliers have had to reconsider their investment projects as well as offer drastic rate cuts to customers.



He further said the cut in customer spending has also been affecting the profits of several hotels and tourist attractions.



Mr. Wildes said the St. Ann Chamber of Commerce is now developing strategies to help tourism interests in the parish.



Chairman of the Ocho Rios Chapter of the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association Vanna Taylor is encouraging Jamaicans to become involved in the local marketing of the country’s tourism product.



Ms. Taylor wants Jamaicans to consider taking vacations in their own country.



She also wants citizens to do more to encourage visitors to come to the island.