NEWRY

since 2015, yet the country still faces challenges in tackling the stigma associated with this ill.

We can trace tourism development in The Bahamas back to the early 20th century. However, in the 1950s and 1960s, The Bahamas experienced significant tourism growth and became a popular destination for international travellers. The Bahamas Hotel Act of 1946 incentivised hotels and resorts to be built. This marked a pivotal moment in the development of the tourism industry.

The opening of Nassau’s first international airport in 1957, the expansion of cruise ship tourism and the establishment of luxury resorts on Paradise Island, such as Atlantis, further contributed to tourism growth in The Bahamas. The country’s natural beauty, pristine beaches and warm climate attracted visitors from across the globe, making it a popular vacation destination.

Tourism and security go hand in hand, as threats such as terrorism, crime and armed conflicts will always influence the choice of tourist destinations. A thriving tourist industry can drive economic growth for many countries and regions. However, crime threatens the development and sustainability of a tourist-based economy. Crime impacts the growth of such economies, highlighting the importance of addressing security concerns to foster a safe and attractive destination for tourists.

Deteriorating safety perception

Incidents of crime, especially those targeted at tourists, create a negative perception of safety within the destination. News of crimes, thefts, scams or violent incidents can spread rapidly through traditional media and social networks, deterring potential tourists from visiting. The perception of an unsafe destination can have longlasting consequences, leading to a decline in tourism demand and subsequent negative economic impacts. Safety is a critical selling point, even though it may not be highlighted in the travel brochure.

Negative reputation and brand image

A destination’s reputation and brand image are critical for attracting tourists. High crime rates and safety concerns tarnish the destination’s perception, making it harder to recover and rebuild a positive perception among potential visitors. Rebuilding trust and confidence requires concerted efforts, extensive marketing campaigns