The story on page 7 of Saturday’s edition was almost “too good to be true.” Long-time guests of Grand Case Beach Club got together to raise funds for the badly-hurricane-damaged and closed property’s staff.
If ever there was an example of being known as “The Friendly Island,” surely this fits the bill, not only due to the incredible generosity shown all by the persons giving, but because the nice treatment they received from personnel over the years inspired them to do it.
They collected an amazing total of close to US $200,000 and each employee is receiving just under $5,000. That’s considerably more than most of their monthly wages, so the donation should really help them quite a bit.
However, regardless of the amount, it is the gesture and willingness to make such an effort on behalf of those who have served the mainly repeat visitors involved that stands out. The latter proved that they really do consider the destination their “home away from home.”
This is a strength on which St. Maarten/St. Martin can build while recovering from its worst natural disaster ever. Despite the widespread devastation particularly in the hospitality industry customer loyalty has remained evident since then, with people abroad regularly inquiring when they would be welcome again.
A lot of work to rebuild local resorts and other ingredients of the tourism product lies ahead, but it is good to know plenty are still interested in vacationing here. They must not be kept waiting any longer than absolutely necessary.
