Page 30 - CAPE Caribbean Studies Study Guide Sample_Neat

2.11 Tourism I: contributions to development

Learning outcome Since the decline of the sugar industry in many Caribbean states, tourism has
been the major revenue earner for many territories. Extra-regional countries
On completion of this section you often see the Caribbean as a premiere tourist destination that consists of
should be able to: picturesque landscapes, exotic flora and forna, cultural diversity and warm
■ distinguish between different friendly people. Tourism contributes to the region in a number of ways.
forms of tourism

■ assess the contribution of Employment
the tourism industry to the Tourism creates jobs for Caribbean locals. Most of the islands in the region
Caribbean region. rely to some extent on tourism as a revenue generator, and businesses
have been set up to serve the tourists. Examples include hotels, spas and
restaurants that hire locals to work for them. Other jobs include tour guides,
Did you know? taxi drivers, food vendors and hotel housekeepers. Local farmers also benefit
when restaurants purchase produce from them.
The following are cultural attractions
in relation to tourism: Tourism also creates opportunities for local craftworkers who earn money by
selling their crafts and handmade souvenirs to tourists.
■ handicrafts
■ language The money that tourists spend in the region is valuable foreign exchange that
contributes to the country’s national revenue. It can be used for Caribbean
■ traditions development programmes.
■ gastronomy
■ art and music
■ history
■ architecture
■ religion
■ leisure activities.

KEY TERM

Gastronomy: the art of
choosing, cooking and tasting
good food.

✓ Exam tip

In the exam you will be required to Figure 2.11.1 Choose one Caribbean country and outline the importance of local
explain how tourism has contributed craftworkers for tourism.
to the development of the region or
a specific territory. It is a good idea Supplies to cruise ships
to familiarise yourself with the role Due to its location, the Caribbean region tends to be warm all year round.
of tourism in at least one Caribbean Cruises to the Caribbean have become more popular with tourists from
country. developed countries. When cruise ships or even yachts dock, they often refuel
or take on water or food supplies. This creates revenue for the country and
creates additional jobs such as port workers, lorry drivers and tour guides.
Sports tourism

Caribbean countries like Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago and the Bahamas are
known for their athletic prowess. Major international events such the Cricket
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