Tourism and National Security partner to keep Bahamas safe in Covid-19 pandemic

Photo Credit: BIS Photos/Eric Rose  

Nassau, Bahamas (April 22, 2021) - The Tourism Development Corporation (TDC) is pleased to announce the signing of a MOU with the RBPF’s Covid 19 Ambassadors to assist in the designation of the Safe Travels Stamp for all local businesses meeting the WTTC’s global protocols as we re-emerge and gain our previous popularity as a tourism destination.

Having recognized The Islands of The Bahamas as a Safe Travels destination for meeting its enhanced health and safety standards in line with its global Safe Travels Protocols, the WTTC along with TDC as the local ambassador for the stamp, has extended the availability of the stamp to all local business establishments.

These protocols were developed specifically to rebuild the traveler’s confidence and to ensure that there is a coordinated public and private sector approach to the recovery efforts of the global tourism industry.

It is the World’s first-ever global safety and hygiene stamp for Travel and Tourism, especially designed amidst the Covid-19 pandemic and for other similar outbreaks. The Bahamas, through the TDC and WTTC will accrue both benefits and responsibilities as a user of the Safe Travels stamp to maximize its positive impacts.

“We are pleased to partner with the TDC to assist with the inspection of premises to ensure that the global safety protocols have been met prior to any establishment receiving the designation of being safe,” stated the Hon. Marvin Dames, Minister for National Security. “As our tourism economy recovers, we must ensure the safety of both residents and visitors alike and adhere to global standards.”

The Safe Travels Protocols take WHO and CDC guidelines into account and are based on self-assessment of the protocols that are implemented in compliance with the Safe Travels Protocols for every aspect of the Industry, with guidelines established for airlines in conjunction with ICAO's guidelines during Covid-19.

“The return of the visitor’s confidence to travel to revitalize the economy of The Bahamas is crucial to the well-being of our people and country,” said Commissioner of Police, Paul Rolle. “The partnership with the Covid 19 ambassadors will allow the proper assessments to be swiftly made to permit the STS decals to be displayed. This in turn will engender confidence and comfort of both locals and visitors knowing that the WTTC’s protocols are being strictly adhered to as qualifier to receive the decals.” 

The TDC will be communicating with all stakeholders in The Bahamas as to the benefits and responsibilities for every tourism-related business which is given the stamp of approval for its implementation of the Safe Travels protocols and on-going compliance.

Guidelines and protocols for what WTTC calls the “New Normal” have been developed for every sector of Hospitality and Tourism from Airports, Cruise ports, Attractions, Restaurants, Tours, Convention Centres, Car Rental Companies etc.

“When the visitor and also resident sees the Safe Travels stamp at a tourism-related business anywhere in The Bahamas, they will have the comfort level to feel safe and enjoy the destination and the particular experience, knowing that global standards have been met and appropriate protocols implemented, “said the Hon Dionisio D’Aguilar, Minister of Tourism and Aviation.

Photo Credit: BIS Photos/Eric Rose  

“With the help of the Covid 19 ambassadors, we will get to the point of knowing that when we see the decal, we know it is safe to enter the premises and participate in the experience whether it is a tour or a restaurant or a retail store. Our collaboration with the Covid 19 Ambassadors is indicative that Tourism is everybody’s business in our Bahamas because that’s what drives our economy,” he continued.

The WTTC’s Safe Travels Stamp will develop the instant recognition required to instill immediate confidence that safety measures have been taken for both resident and visitor alike.

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Contact:

Janet Johnson
427-3757
janet@tdcbahamas.com