Quick recap – issues with the development of tourism… What are the problems associated with jobs in the tourist industry? They are often low paid, seasonal and menial. Why does tourism greatly increase the demand for water supplies? Tourists expect swimming pools, showers, landscaped gardens etc. Why might an increase in international tourism actually increase hunger in an LEDC? Land is taken up to grow crops to supply hotels or farmland is built on so less staple food crops are produced and prices rise.

Case Study – Opportunities created by tourism - Jamaica

Economic Development Tourism increasing important to Jamaica’s economy in recent decades. 31% GDP, employs 300,000, earns £2 billion a year, largest source of foreign exchange. Development has also lead to greatly improved infrastructure – roads, power etc. Jamaica has been determined to learn from the ‘mistakes’ of other countries and ensure that the population would gain real benefits from the growth of tourism.

Environmental Development Jamaican government working to reduce the environmental impact of tourism. National Parks – 3 already designated and a further 6 identified for future protection. Entry fees to the parks pay for conservation.

Marine parks are attempting to conserve the coral reef environments off the west coast of Jamaica. They are at risk from over fishing, industrial pollution and mass tourism. The Jamaican Conservation and Development Trust is responsible for the management of the national parks while the National Environmental Planning Agency has overseen the governments sustainable development strategy since Ecotourism developing e.g. raft trips to River Rio Grande. Tourists go around in small groups, boats rely on manpower and only a few boats on river at any one time to reduce the environmental impact.

Social Development Considerable efforts being made to promote community tourism. Community Tourism – aspect of tourism industry which fosters opportunities at the community level for local people. Money from tourism filters down to the local population and small communities. The Sustainable Communities Foundation (SCF) through tourism programme has been active in central and south-west Jamaica.

The Astra Country Inn, Mandeville has been recognised as a pioneer hotel in community tourism. Its work includes: Promoting B and B accommodation in private homes. Training local guides. Developing community based tourist attractions. Encouraging the development of local suppliers.

Political Development… Government has set up a range of agencies to manage tourist development and make it more sustainable.

Problems in Jamaica… Tourism has not been without problems. The behaviour of some tourists clashes with the island’s traditional morals. Some people have a negative image of Jamaica because of the violence and harassment. Despite attempts from the government, some environmental damaged has occurred and biodiversity has been lost. The high of ‘winter season’ from mid-December to mid April is the busiest – it is estimated that 25% of hotel workers are laid off during the low season – May to November.