Blue Mountain's potential for eco-tourism

THE EDITOR, Sir:

AS A British tourist more determined than average to explore the rugged interior of Jamaica, I recently hiked up the Blue Mountain Peak, via Hagley Gap and Whitfield Hall.

What I discovered was a true paradise with huge potential for sensitive eco-tourism development, but hampered by inadequate basic infrastructure (in particular piped water and tarmac roads) and suffering from neglect.

The potential for British tourism is obvious. The Brits are a nation of keen hill-walkers and hikers, respectful of nature and the countryside. They are also well used to a cool, temperate (dare we say wet) climate! If British visitors were made aware of the beautiful scenery and flora of the Blue Mountain Reserve (within a one-hour striking distance of Kingston) they would surely make efforts to visit. Not to mention Swiss, Austrian, Italian and French visitors whose countries have Alpine walking traditions of their own.

As the saying goes, "build it and they will come". Some vision and joined-up-hiking are required to develop the Hagley Gap area as a gateway for Blue Mountain eco-tourism. This means specifically:

Adequate tarmac roads to Mavis Bank and Hagley Gap;

Piped water to Hagley Gap, to allow development of tourist facilities such as guest houses and eating places;

Removal of graffiti from Blue Mountain Trail signs, and establishment of a proper observation post at the summit trig point;

Preparation and dissemination to travel agents of quality tourist leaflets.

I would urge all readers of The Gleaner, and those Ministers responsible, to visit Hagley Gap and Blue Mountain Peak, talk to the friendly but struggling residents, and see for themselves.

I look forward to seeing some progress by the next time I visit this beautiful country. Who knows, I may bring some British hiking friends!

I am, etc.,

JUSTIN P. SMITH

Langley Vale, Epsom Downs

Surrey, England

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