Business chiefs are pushing to open Bahamas islands that have no current COVID-19 cases. Exuma Chamber of Commerce head Pedro Rolle believes economic activity of all the Family Islands, apart from Bimini, should be fully opened. Additionally, a recent Eleuthera Chamber of Commerce report says, “It is felt by many that the Family Islands offer The Bahamas the greatest opportunity for recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic.”
The Bahamas Prime Minister Hubert Minnis has said that Stage Two of his strategy for resuming post-COVID-19 economic activity includes the full reopening of virus-free Family Islands, such as Eleuthera and Exuma in this case.
Mr. Rolle told The Tribune, “There is no logic why we shouldn’t be approved. We see no reason why Exuma shouldn’t be in the group.”
Opening the islands would bring an economic boost, he says, but care would still need to be taken over health issues. The Sandals Emerald Bay resort, one of Exuma’s most important businesses, has set a target to open on July 1. Mr. Rolle also hopes that domestic travel within the Bahamas will also soon open up, as interaction with Nassau is vital.
In its COVID-19 recovery document, Eleuthera Chambers of Commerce says there are many reasons why the Family Islands offer the greatest opportunity for recovery after COVID-19. These include:
- Currently, 14 islands have ZERO COVID-19 cases
- The Family Islands have unique natural beauty
- They are sparsely populated, which easily facilitates social distancing
- Typically, land on Family Islands cost less than land in the capital
- These islands typically attract higher-end clients
- The Family Islands have significant existing foreign investments and pending projects; for example – existing cruise ports ( Coco Cay, Great Stirrup Cay, Castaway Cay, Princess Cays, Half Moon Cay, Ocean Cay New cruise port projects (Disney $300 million, Half Moon Cay $100 million)
- The Vacation Rental Home sector shows consistent growth
- Boating and yachting destinations (Abaco, Eleuthera, Exumas) offer a variety of marinas and
- moorings
- Many Bahamians are looking for a simpler, quieter life and would relish the opportunity to live and work on the Family Islands.
The report also suggests that in order to stimulate the closing of pending real estate deals, encourage Bahamians to invest in Family Island real estate and property refurbishment and/or construction.
Sign in to receive updated listings in the Family Islands > Here
