Tourism industry in Barbados could take a hit in 2012

(Barbados Nation) – Barbados’ tourism industry could take a serious hit this year from two international events: the Olympic Games in London and the Presidential Elections in the United States.

Minister of Tourism Richard Sealy said yesterday that the two events could negatively impact tourist arrivals.

“It is something that could further compound our challenges,” Sealy told reporters.

Noting that the British market was still the most significant to the island, Sealy said it was anticipated that British residents “will opt to stay at home and watch the Olympic Games”.

He added: “Research has shown that Americans stay closer to home whenever there are presidential elections in that country.”

Sealy however reckoned that Barbados’ tourism product would still do well in 2012.