I was going to comment on the tourism statistic thread but feel this may be more appropriate. The BTB tourism/hotel report makes some very interesting points...

1. AC is the main tourism destination in BZ

2. Tourism rates are rising moderately even in the "low" season

3. Placentia is seeing a rise in tourism

4. Room rates are rising

5. Room occupancy is averaging 50%/yr with high of 71% and low of 22% for 2007

6. Direct quote from report: "It is the Preparer's concern that the increase in number of Ambergris Caye hotels in recent years (1 in 2007, 6 in 2006, 11 in 2005, 7 in 2004, 6 in 2003, 5 in 2002) will result in declining average rates of occupancy as more property choices are being offered to tourists who are not arriving in numbers increasing consistent with the increase in hotels. The increases in average hotel occupancy percentages in 2006 and 2007, following a gradual decline from 2002 through 2005, are unexpected, raising doubt about the BTB's data collection and reporting. Based on the additional properties presently under construction or planned on Ambergris Caye, a declining trend seems more probable than an increase in percentage occupancies. For properties without strong marketing programs, consistent repeat customers, or amenities desired by travelers, this will mean difficulty in operations and possible threats to survival.

What will happen when the current establishments fall into disrepair due to the cost/revenue balance sheet dipping into the red. Can AC continue to draw the tourism should this happen? Aesthetics of the ares is exactly what I am referring to as people form an initial judgment based on their visual queues. And I should also make it known that I do understand there is a difference in the "tourist" part of the island and the "non-tourist" portion of the island and it's drastic differences.

I know I don't live there, but I can tell you that I love it there and have had a number of friends visit there on my recommendation. I just want to see AC continue to thrive. What is being done to continue to raise the rates of tourism; ensure the safety of the population, both locals and visitors; support the businesses that are currently there while still looking toward the future; and yet still keeping the same beauty and vitality that is AC? What about infrastructure, education, poverty, ecology?

It's great to be .....