Myopia is curable, Dr Cooper
THE EDITOR, Madam:
I NOTE with interest an article in The Sunday Gleaner (March 1) written by Dr Carolyn Cooper titled ‘Bait and switch’. In the article, she commented on the newly renovated Fort Clarence Beach, which is now a Guardsman Hospitality property. While she had nothing negative to say about Fort Clarence Beach in its present state, the title of the article would seem to suggest that she expects to have lots to complain about in the future. She goes further to remind the readers, once again, of all the perceived ills that exist at the other Guardsman Hospitality properties – Puerto Seco, Konoko Falls, and the Hope Zoo – not the least of which is the increased entry fee.
I would like to ask: on what planet can one expect to find a completely refurbished attraction of an international standard, and not pay more to enter? And why does Dr Cooper feel that the average Jamaican, even those in a lower income bracket, are not eager to spend the day at a clean, well-appointed attraction. Are they not deserving of clean and well-appointed facilities? Has she taken the time to compare entry costs being charged at other attractions on the island?
I have been to Puerto Seco, and it is not the upper crust of Jamaica I see filling the property to capacity – it is the average, hard-working Jamaican who wishes to spend the day with family and friends at a spectacular beach with all the amenities one could wish for. Certainly, a far cry from what it was before the renovation. That goes for the Hope Zoo as well.
It is beginning to look like Dr Cooper has a personal grouse with Guardsman Hospitality. She should note that the best beaches on the island are monopolised by ‘all inclusives’ and are off limits to the average Jamaican altogether!
Myopia is curable – all one has to do is look at the bigger picture! DOUGLAS ABRAHAM abrahamdouglas272 @gmail.com