One of the worst things (other than the damage and loss of life caused by Keith) is the fact that the world may preceive that Belize has been wipped off the map and that travel plans to Belize should be changed to other destinations. While this is expected right now, if not handled properly, this could extend for several years to come - if we don't get the word out.

While, in the short term, we all should be concerned about relieving the pain and suffering of those most needy, it is important that we do not forget the importance of tourism in Belize as well as the foreign exchange that it produces and is needed to rebuild the tourism industry on the Cayes. Yes, there will be some foreign assistance and insurance for some but we can count on that dwindling as time goes on.

No doubt BTIA and BTB will be addressing the problem but it is up to each one of us to get the word out that the sand is still there and that those "players" offering tourism services will no doubt do everything possible to be back into operation very quickly.

Bob Jones of Eva's in San Ignacio used his e-mail contacts over the past several years to send a message to all (over 1,200) that Belize is not "out of business" and tourism is still alive and well in Belize. His response from his short message was overwhelming from travel agents, wholesalers and individuals, thanking him for the report. Some messages indicated that they thought Belize should be taken off their destination list because of the destruction and were glad to know it wasn't as they perceived.

I certainly do not want to minimize the imporance of the current situation and the attention that must be paid to it On the other hand, in a few months, even with rebuilding, we want to make sure we have people who have no doubts in making Belize their destination. So many jobs in the Cayes depend upon it. If the people on the West side of the islands don't have jobs, they certainly cannot rebuild their lives and their homes.

With best intentions,

Rick