Jamaica: Southwest Coast, Savanna-la-Mar to Old Harbour
99 Coastal Destinations Rated: Doing Well
Score: 70
Unlike the island's more visited northwest coast, this region has long supported eco-friendly tourism and retains an authentic Jamaican flavor that is accessible to visitors. "The outlook is still good, but recent announcements for major tourism development in St. Elizabeth have generated some concern."
Here is a representative sampling of additional anonymous comments from the panelists. They are not necessarily the views of the National Geographic Society:
"Love the way this place is being developed. It seems both Jamaicans and foreigners are trying to learn from mistakes made in other parts of Jamaica. They are developing while maintaining the sense of place. Treasure Beach, Bluefields Bay are some of my favorite places in Jamaica."
"The tourism policy for the southwest coast is supposed to be towards low-density, sustainable tourism. However, some hotels have not incorporated sustainable construction and operations practices. The outlook is still good, but plans for major tourism development in St. Elizabeth have generated concern among local environmentalists."
"One of Jamaica's most interesting coastlines. Environmental quality is still quite good. Proximity of bauxite mining/shipping is troubling. Small-scale tourism."
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