I was on AC a few weeks ago and was surprised to see alot of trash and debris in vacant lots (one lot across from the Barefoot Iguana is almost completely covered with heavy trash), in people's yards and along the streets. Several other guests at Ramon's Village commented that they had also noticed this and would not come back. This is not good for tourism or the island. If San Pedro is not able to clean up all of this trash, the hotels, restaurants and other businesses depedent upon tourism should organize a clean up of the island. Does anyone know if this problem is being addressed?

I guess you missed the last two hurricanes and the resulting devastation and destruction. As a practical matter, in my mind if there are those who find the "trash" situation in San Pedro (which is also common to the backside of most other Caribbean destinations) beyond the pale, then stay away.

Or if some one has a practical solution as how to dispose of all the hurricane trash, etc., I'm VERY certain that the San Pedro Town Board will be eternally grateful.

CC

Hmmmmmmmm, I guess I should be in a better mood after spending the last 12 days in SP.

The trash by Barefoot Iguana is a Town Board project to fill the low-lying streets in that area. They first cleared the bush, then when sufficient trash is dumped, they will spread it and cover with a layer of sand to create new streets. It's a good thing.

I am painfully aware of the 2 hurricanes that hit the island 3 and 5 years ago and the resulting damage has not kept me from being a regular on AC. Unfortunately, many visitors are either not aware of this or don't care. They simply don't want to go to an island on their vacation and see this situation. I posted this thread because I heard several people say they would not return to AC and it concerned me that tourism might be effected if something isn't done. Twice a year, there is a national beach clean up that takes place in the US. Volunteers walk the beaches and nearby areas, picking up tons of trash and debris. Maybe something similar could be organized on AC by the businesses on the island and/or the town board. Just a thought.

When I was in SP last May (my first time) I also
commented on the 'mess in some yards' and was
told that people were 'trying to raise the land'.

I makes sense when you hear it, just like when
you understand that houses are built on stilts
because it is eaiser and cheeper to build the
second story later when it is on the ground
instead of over the first story.

Maybe a few 'Clean Fill Wanted' signs would help
tourists realize that it is not a 'mess', but a
'project in progress'.

Thanks Chismera. That's great news! Can't wati to get back to AC again.

m Most of the trash from the hurricane is long gone. Sorry, I live there and also think the trash is a big deterrant to tourisim. Mayoress Paz has been trying to keep the roadside cleaned up and it has been a big improvement. It is true the trash is not a big deal in most Central American countries, but if you are trying to attract tourists it,s certainly something to consider.

garbage is a reflection of societies inability to see from where it is they came....

Right!

garbage could be an archaeologist's delight.