Old Bahama Bay and Sustainable Tourism

According to Wikipedia, Sustainable Tourism is an industry committed to making a low impact on the environment and local culture, while helping to generate future employment for local people. The aim of sustainable tourism is to ensure that development brings a positive experience for the local people, tourism companies and the tourists themselves. This week’s show, hosted by the luxury boutique and marina of Old Bahama Bay and the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, was a prime example of sustainable tourism and how the Blue Flag Programme plays a role to ensure the sustainability of Bahamian ocean and coastal environments and how participating destinations are making a positive impact on local communities.

Sustainable Tourism General Manager Earlston McPhee explained the essential elements of the program, citing Old Bahama Bay’s commitment to the environment by being the first marina in the Bahamas to achieve the certification. Most importantly, Old Bahama Bay has retained its certification every year since being first certified.

Old Bahama Bay General Manager Jackie Carroll gave listeners all of the key points that make Old Bahama Bay a boaters paradise. Are you looking for a great get-away that is not “too far away?" Then check out the great packages Jackie described for the upcoming Christmas and New Year’s holidays. And after the holidays, consider an air-inclusive Grand Bahama Island package. You can find details here. And, here is a Talkin’ Tourism “Insiders’ Tip," the food is wonderful and the guest rooms are absolutely fabulous!
Special guest co-host Harold Rolle, a lifelong West Ender, shared interesting personal perspectives on Old Bahama Bay’s commitment to sustainable and responsible tourism and its positive impact on the residents of West End, Grand Bahama. Very proud of the fact that West End is called the “Home of Hospitality," Harold explained his passion for the tourism industry and the benefits to the island and the country.

And, last but not least, Raul Miranda, the tournament coordinator of the Bahamas Wahoo Championship, gave a brief rundown on the first leg of the championship, which was occuring at the time of our radio show.

Special thanks to the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, the Grand Bahama Tourism Office, Discovery Cruise Line, Old Bahama Bay and M&K Car Rentals for being special sponsors of the show. Also, special thanks to Old Bahama Bay Operations Manager Nathan Moody for ensuring all the technology was in place (and working) to accommodate the live remote!

If you missed the show, you can download the audio file HERE. And to see photos from the show, from around Grand Bahama, and aboard the Discovery Sun, check out the slide show below.

Last, a link to an actual video of the show, will be posted in a day or two for your viewing and listening pleasure, so be sure to check back soon!