Redesigned tourism model must adapt to communities: Diana McIntyre-Pike

Barbados: In a redesigned tourism development model, destinations must adapt to communities and not the other way around; Founder and President of Countrystyle Community Tourism Network/Villages, Diana McIntyre-Pike emphasized this point in her presentation on 'Inclusive Community-Led and Owned Tourism' during the last day of the online consultation 'Re-Imagining Tourism in Barbados'.

McIntyre-Pike referred to the community-led tourism projects in Jamaica, to provide insight into the strategies and actions needed to develop a successful, inclusive, community-led tourism product; and emphasizes that community tourism is not a niche market, but a sustainable way to move a country forward.

"Visitors are looking for authentic experiences, so there is no need to create attractions; people themselves are an attraction. Through the power of local culture, heritage, natural and social capital, communities can build businesses. However, relationships need to be created to help communities in different areas, including developing business plans, training and a marketing network."

McIntyre-Pike encouraged participants to learn best practices and lessons from other countries, which already have community-led tourism products. She also said that they should not rush the process and that they have strong links with local producers and suppliers.

Minister of Tourism and International Transport, Senator Lisa Cummins, who supports community tourism development, said: "Community-led tourism will sustain our cultural and heritage assets."

"It is envisaged that it will also encourage co-operation with the accommodation sector, entrepreneurs, non-governmental organizations, civil society, the private sector, producers and suppliers. It does not pass us by to re-present authentic experiences that are safe and attractive to tourists. In addition, we must ensure that we preserve our environment and encourage community development by raising awareness of the importance of responsible tourism for both communities and visitors."

Senator Cummins also noted that Barbadians will have the opportunity to enjoy what the different communities have to offer and appreciate the true beauty and diversity of the island during the development of community-led tourist and tourist products.

"Barbadians have supported the accommodation sector in difficult times, and community tourism can also increase our domestic tourism. Our goal is to stimulate growth in communities and sectors such as cottage industries, agriculture, transportation, retail and manufacturing. "This increased activity should contribute to the expansion of the domestic economy through growth in employment and national income," said Minister Cummins.

At the outbreak sessions, the participants suggested different approaches on the implementation of tourism in the community.

This includes educating communities about the value proposition to be derived; raising awareness of tangible and intangible assets within communities, structured training programs, creating authentic and sustainable products, and implementing programs that focus on 'knowledge transfer' / mentorship.

It has also been suggested that community tourism can help Barbados achieve some of its Sustainable Development Goals - poverty alleviation and empowerment.