Tourism Baseline Survey launched in Tobago

The survey, launched on April 7, is designed to collect and critically analyse data in the areas of tourism businesses, employment, incomes earned and revenue generated.

A DOTCT release quoted Secretary of Tourism, Culture and Transportation Nadine Stewart- Phillips as saying at the launch, that the survey represented a more strategic and calculated approach which is key to the success of Tobago’s tourism industry.

Stewart-Phillips said Tobago’s tourism industry is at the dawn of a new and progressive era, and “We cannot continue with business as usual.” As Tobago competes with destinations in the region and beyond, she said, “We understand that our efforts in the area of product marketing require a more technical and measurable approach.” The survey will gather and analyse data on international visitor expenditure and primary tourism business, that will allow policy- makers to make informed decisions.

The release said that the division’s goal remains to nurture, maintain and leverage Tobago’s resources in a manner that will attract a wider range of travelers while maintaining the authentic experience that repeat visitors love.

As the THA charts the way forward for tourism in Tobago, Stewart- Phillips said, “We need to understand how these actions impact our tourism practitioners, their businesses, their revenue, and the action they need to take.” With the relevant information, she said, those in the industry can seek to progress in a sustainable manner that remains true to Tobago’s heritage, while identifying opportunities for growth and positive change that not only meet, but exceed visitor expectations.

However, she said, the survey is not a panacea for the issues that have plagued the tourism sector in the past.

“We each need to take responsibility for our role within the industry, whether we are policy makers, technocrats, practitioners or residents who may not be directly involved, but who are nevertheless indirectly impacted by it on a daily basis,” she said.