The Caribbean tourism is growing rapidly, with destinations vying for travelers’ attention in an increasingly competitive market. Amidst this challenging environment, one small nation stands out, charting a course towards sustainable growth and authentic experiences. At the helm of this journey is Rosa Harris, the Director of Tourism for the Cayman Islands.
For over a decade, she has been the driving force behind the Cayman Islands’ tourism strategy, skillfully balancing the preservation of local culture with the demands of modern travelers. Her unique perspective as both a “daughter of the soil” and a global citizen has proved invaluable in shaping the islands’ approach to tourism.
“The Cayman Islands is a special place rich with history, flavor and soul,” Rosa explains, her voice filled with passion for her homeland. This archipelago, comprising Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman, spans just over 100 square miles but offers a world of experiences to visitors.
Her vision for Cayman Islands tourism goes beyond mere numbers. She aims to redefine what tourism and hospitality mean, not only for international guests but also for the Caymanian people. Her strategy focuses on showcasing the islands’ unique culture and natural landscapes while embracing innovative developments that enhance the visitor experience.
Drawing from her experiences studying and traveling abroad, Rosa has cultivated a deep appreciation for the diverse offerings of the three islands. This global perspective, combined with her local roots, allows her to craft tourism initiatives that resonate with international travelers while remaining true to the Cayman Islands’ essence.
As the Caribbean tourism sector faces new challenges and opportunities, Rosa continues to steer the Cayman Islands towards a future where tourism enriches both visitors and locals alike. Her leadership promises to keep this island nation at the forefront of Caribbean destinations, offering unforgettable experiences that capture the heart and soul of the Cayman Islands.
Let’s explore the journey of a “daughter of the soil”!
Sustaining Growth
The Cayman Islands Department of Tourism (CIDOT) has been at the vanguard of promoting the Cayman Islands as a leading travel destination since its establishment in 1974. As a government agency, CIDOT’s mission extends beyond simply attracting visitors—it plays a decisive role in supporting local businesses, elevating the visitor experience, and certifying the long-term sustainability of the islands’ tourism sector.
CIDOT’s core responsibilities include developing and executing marketing strategies that showcase the unique offerings of Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman, while also collecting and analyzing tourism data to inform policy decisions. This data-driven approach allows the department to continuously improve services and adapt to the evolving needs of travelers.
Loyal to sustainable tourism, CIDOT strives to balance economic growth with the preservation of the Cayman Islands’ natural beauty and cultural heritage. By doing so, the department confirms that the islands will remain a pulsating and welcoming destination for generations to come.
Addressing Sustainable Vision
The Cayman Islands Department of Tourism recognizes sustainability as the most significant challenge facing the sector today. The department, under the guidance of its leadership, is proactively addressing these challenges through its new National Tourism Plan.
This comprehensive strategy emphasizes the integration of sustainability into all facets of tourism, from attractive experiences that celebrate the islands’ rich heritage, arts, and culture to establishing visitor codes of conduct for wildlife encounters.
Additionally, the plan advocates for sustainable design and construction in new developments, certifying that the growth of the tourism sector aligns with the preservation of the islands’ natural beauty and cultural integrity.
Guiding Tourism Alignment
With over 21 years of experience, Rosa has a significant influence on how the country’s tourism industry is shaped. Developing the tourism product and carrying out smart marketing plans that establish the Cayman Islands as a top travel destination worldwide are two of her main duties.
Under her leadership, the department ensures that tourism growth aligns with the country’s broader economic goals, spotlights support for local businesses, creates jobs, and promotes sustainable development. Through further collaboration between public and private sector stakeholders, Rosa assures that both stayover and cruise tourism contribute to the islands’ long-term economic success.
A key aspect of her role involves the continuous analysis of tourism data and trends, which informs adaptive strategies that keep the Cayman Islands competitive in the global market while preserving the rich cultural heritage and values of the Caymanian people.
Shaping Tourism Through Leadership
Rosa recently ended a successful two-year tenure as Chairperson of the CTO’s Board of Directors where she played a vital role in uniting 25 member countries and territories under a shared mission to preserve cultural heritage, protect natural resources, and promote economic prosperity across the region.
Her work with CTO emphasized the importance of collective efforts in advancing tourism standards and practices throughout the Caribbean.
Through these various positions, Rosa continues to drive the development of tourism in the Cayman Islands and the broader Caribbean, fostering collaboration, sharing best practices, and championing sustainable growth across the region.
Approach to Success
In the active world of tourism, Rosa believes that trust is essential to leadership, particularly in an industry as multifaceted as tourism.
She places immense trust in her team, recognizing their passion and vow to achieve success. This trust is not just about delegating tasks but also about permitting her team members to excel in their roles.
Her leadership style is characterized by a balance of guidance and autonomy. She provides the necessary support through coaching and regular check-ins but also allows her team the space to steer challenges and learn from their experiences. This approach raises a culture of growth and resilience within the department, enabling her team to innovate and contribute effectively to the overall mission of serving the Cayman Islands.
Under her leadership, the collective efforts of her dedicated team have been instrumental in advancing the tourism sector in the Cayman Islands, reflecting Rosa’s commitment to nurturing talent and driving success through trust and empowerment.
Evolution in Tourism
Rosa’s approach is grounded in open and continuous dialogue, where every stakeholder’s voice is heard and integrated into the decision-making process. This inclusive strategy adopts strong partnerships and aligns initiatives with the shared goal of driving economic growth.
Through regular consultations and collaborative efforts, Rosa assures that strategies not only develop the visitor experience but also uphold sustainable practices. These efforts benefit the community and protect the Cayman Islands’ natural resources, creating a balanced and prosperous tourism industry that serves both economic and environmental interests.
Future of Tourism
The Cayman Islands Hospitality School Council is instrumental in the ongoing development of the country’s tourism industry. By offering high-quality education and training, the Council certifies that young Caymanian professionals are well-equipped to meet the standards of excellence expected by visitors.
This oath to nurture a skilled and knowledgeable workforce not only enhances the employability of local graduates but also drives innovation and best practices within the hospitality sector.
Looking ahead, the impact of the Council is set to grow as continued investment in education and professional development solidifies the Cayman Islands’ status as a premier tourism destination, contributing to the long-term sustainability of the nation’s economy.
Commitment to Authenticity
As a proud Caymanian, Rosa brings a deeply rooted local perspective to her work in the tourism industry. Her intimate knowledge of the Cayman Islands augments the Department of Tourism’s initiatives, ensuring they reflect the island’s authentic charm. With a team largely composed of Caymanians, the department is able to infuse genuine local insight into its tourism offerings.
Rosa’s approach blends the island’s rich heritage with modern innovation, from celebrating the Cayman Islands’ reputation as the “Culinary Capital of the Caribbean” to embracing pioneering hotel developments.
Under her guidance, tourism promotions showcase authentic Caymanian experiences, whether through outdoor adventures like scuba diving and fishing, vibrant local arts and entertainment, or the island’s thriving farm-to-table culinary practices.
This commitment to authenticity connects travelers with the true essence of the Cayman Islands, enhancing their overall experience and deepening their appreciation of the local culture.
Exploring Growth Opportunities
The Cayman Islands is poised for significant growth in its tourism industry, with several strategic initiatives set to drive development. Rosa and her team are focused on diversifying tourism offerings and adding value for our tourism partners.
Key to this effort is the expansion of accommodation options, with the nation recently surpassing an 8,000-room milestone. New hotel openings, such as Hotel Indigo Grand Cayman and Vida Cayman, highlight the destination’s readiness to accommodate a larger influx of visitors.
Also, the enhancement of transportation links plays a crucial role in this growth strategy. The introduction of direct flights from major U.S. cities, including new services from Orlando and Dallas, along with the resumption of seasonal routes from Minneapolis, strengthens the Cayman Islands’ North American presence.
A major component of the growth plan is the $55 million Airport Master Plan, which aims to improve infrastructure across the country’s three airports over the next two decades. This investment will develop access and connectivity, supporting the Cayman Islands’ ambitions to attract a broader global audience.
Ambitious Tourism Professionals
Rosa offers valuable advice for young professionals entering the tourism industry. She accentuates the importance of passion and adaptability, noting that no two days are the same in this go-ahead field. She encourages newcomers to embrace the journey with an open mind, understanding that success comes with time and a willingness to explore various experiences.
In this ever-evolving sector, staying informed about global trends and being receptive to new ideas are key. Rosa highlights the need for strong communication and interpersonal skills, which are important for delivering exceptional service and building meaningful relationships.
A deep appreciation for local culture and the environment also plays a significant role in promoting and preserving the unique qualities of destinations like the Cayman Islands. She underscores the value of hands-on experience and networking, advising young professionals to seize growth opportunities and engage actively within the industry.
