Local Tourism Bolsters Industry Revenue

Local tourism in Belize has remained stable although borders are fully reopened. With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, international travel restrictions encouraged more Belizeans to explore their own country and support local businesses. In the midst of that, domestic tourism became the lifeline for many tourism operators who suffered significant losses as the pandemic ran its course. President of the BTIA, Stewart Krohn explained that the resilience demonstrated by the local tourism industry remains steadfast as international tourism continues to recover.

Stewart Krohn, President, BTIA Placencia: “One of the few good things that came out of the pandemic was that obviously Belizean travel within the country increased greatly and I think very much to the satisfaction of the public I think the Belizean traveler realized that in terms of value, in terms of experience that vacationing within the country is far superior than going across the border to Mexico or Guatemala or even the United States. I think when the country opened up we were somewhat fearful that old patterns would be restored where people would flock to Chetumal, flock to Playa, flock to Cancun, flock to Bacalar, flock to Miami and Houston and Chicago fortunately that has not happened. Yes there has been some increased visitation to Chetumal but you know what we have found, what most hotels have found is that the local clientele that was built up during COVID has by and large remained loyal and by and large remained happy.”

Reporter: Do you expect to see a positive easter season turn out this year ?

Stewart Krohn, President, BTIA Placencia: “My feeling is that Easter is going to be gang busters and let’s hope that we have enough water to satisfy everyone.”