We know how to ‘roll out a red carpet’
Dear Editor,
So US President Barack Obama had a swell time in Jamaica. Let me start by saying thanks to the people of Jamaica for showing him the sort of hospitality that has made the Caribbean a most sought-after destination for global travellers.
It was heartening to see the images of the warm receptions the US president got wherever he went. And, in true Jamaican style, even when approached by a dreadlocked man with a burning marijuana issue to share, the exchanges with Obama were respectful and productive.
I am tipping my hat to Jamaica’s Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller for the wonderful role she played as host to the US president. She spared no effort nor expense in ensuring that Obama and his entourage had a wonderful and memorable trip.
Others will no doubt debate the merits of spending as much as Jamaica did for such a short stay by a sitting US president. This comes as Jamaica struggles to maintain some measure of economic stability with IMF assistance. But, I am no economist.
What I see is a grasped opportunity and an important statement made to the world that, in spite of difficulties, Jamaica will always be able to serve up the finest treatment to her finest guests. For a country that depends on tourism as her mainstay, showing the right image remains crucial and priceless.
Nothing about the manner in which President Obama was treated in Jamaica should surprise. As the population in the English-speaking Caribbean with the largest number of blacks, many Jamaicans would have seen the US president as one of their own.
I am glad the US president visited an island run by one of our two female Caribbean leaders. It highlights the strides our Caribbean women continue to make. I am sure he would have had an enjoyable time wherever he went in the region, but there is something about the treatment one gets from a Caribbean woman that keeps you coming back for more.
And so US President Barack Obama came and was impressed, and departed our shores with warmth in his heart and a smile on his face. The region is left to contemplate what happens now and who gets to play host to the next bigwig coming our way.
Dexter Wharton
dexterwharton@gmail.com