Posted by: Editor on Sep 20, 2006 – 10:16 AM
newsandinfo Tourism officials are eager to see Grand Bahama become the sport and entertainment hub of The Bahamas.
Work began to steer the nation’s second city in this direction three years ago before Hurricanes Jeanne and Francis in 2004 put a dent in big plans that tourism and other partners had for Grand Bahama. But with new and anticipated development boom on that island, there would be more focus on attracting tourists interested in light sport and leisure.
“Many will come from around the world and not have to travel to some of the other destinations,” Tourism Minister Obie Wilchcombe said last week in Freeport during the groundbreaking for the Golf Suites, a $60 million condo development.
Mr. Wilchcombe illustrated this point and said, “Grand Bahama is positioning itself to become the attraction for golfers and many around the world are looking for destinations, particularly warm weather destinations, like The Bahamas.”
Golf Suites is expected to open in 12 months and would focus mainly on golf enthusiasts, although The Freeport News said recently that boaters have expressed an interest as well.
Further, Preben Olesen, Golf Suite’s chairman and chief executive officer, revealed plans to give the Port Lucaya area a facelift, changing it into a “yachting and golfing paradise.” In media reports he said this transformation could cost around $500 million.
Tourism on Grand Bahama is expected to grow with the re-opening of The Royal Oasis, which would add two additional golf courses to the existing three, the Freeport News reported. In addition, there would be another golf course in Freeport with the opening of the Lucayan Shannon and two in West End upon the completion of the Ginn development.
Grand Bahama would also most likely attract more golf tourists, having an advantage over other popular tourist centres throughout The Bahamas, such as Nassau which has three golf courses, and Abaco which has one.
The minister also revealed that the Ministry of Tourism is working with the Promotion Board in its efforts to “reposition Grand Bahama to play a more meaningful role” in contributing to tourism.
Mr. Wilchcombe also said during the groundbreaking that marketing consultants were in The Bahamas and would meet with Nassau and Grand Bahama officials to discuss re-branding strategies to revitalise tourism on Grand Bahama. Prime Minister Perry Christie also attended the groundbreaking in Freeport last week.
Source: The Nassau Guardian