Position: Owner of Ocean Pearl Resort & Diamond Sunrise Restaurant and Bar

Guardian Business: Can you briefly describe your experience in the tourism sector?

Doris: Being an ambassador for my country has always been a part of my life. As a former athlete, I have been recognized in softball and track and field, and talking and selling my country is something that is very natural for me. My taste for tourism began at an early age, when I had to present a tourism related project for my BJC exam. This peaked my interest and upon completion of high school I applied for a government assistance grant for tourism related projects. Ocean Pearl (a 10-room resort in High Rock, Grand Bahama) was opened in the year 2000. Ocean Pearl caters to domestic and international visitors and is a community and culture focused operation. In 2009, I founded the High Rock Fishing Association Tournament, a community event geared at garnering greater community involvement with the residents.
Getting the local community involved in wholesome activity is very important, as the culture of the people can be shared. Cultural tourism is also important to our community. Some of the things we were also able to accomplish include refurbishing the boat ramp used by both locals and visitors alike and the most recent honoring of all senior citizens last year.

GB: Why did you chose tourism as a career?

Doris: I really didn't choose this as a career, but stumbled into it as I saw an opportunity to own my own business and show others the beauty of my settlement and all that is has to offer. I decided, with this land on the beach, why not use it to show my own people what can be done? If I can please my own people, it would be a plus pleasing visitors. Today I own and operate Ocean Pearl Resort, Diamond Sunrise Restaurant, and Sapphire Tours, which specializes in fishing excursions.

GB: What has been your most memorable moment?

Doris: My most memorable moment occurred in 2003. A visitor from New York came down for a week. It was obvious that he was going through personal issues, and as a result of our engagement, I was able to recommend to him some of the places to visit to find relaxation. He shared that no one ever took the time to ensure his well being and be so genuine. He said that after many walks on the beach based on my recommendation, he found solace and peace. He said that what I had was a gold mine, and as I shared with him my expansion plans, he immediately said he wanted to be a part of it. Upon his return to the United States, he wired funds to my account to aid in the building of my restaurant. To this day his family and mine remain very close friends, and as a result, he has sent other family members and friends to Ocean Pearl. When we dedicated and opened the Diamond Sunrise Restaurant, it was in his honor.

GB: Has the industry changed since you started your career?

Doris: Yes and no. Visitors are more discerning and savvy - they expect an experience and want to understand and appreciate hands-on the culture of the community. I think gone are the days of people wanting to stay for long periods of time in the mega hotels. There is a demand for that - but I feel the desire for that one-on-one experience is far greater. Technology has allowed the flow of information to change perceptions. That can help or hurt depending on the experience. The visitors still expects an experience that they can remember.

GB: What does The Bahamas need to focus on to stay competitive?

Doris: The Bahamas needs to focus on the smaller properties in support of the unique product that is offered. There are many challenges that smaller operations face financially and with the marketing of their businesses. I think if there is more support in these areas. We can attract more visitors to our shores.

GB: What advice would you give a young person who is considering a career in tourism?

Doris: My advice would be to forewarn them that this is not a 9-5 undertaking! You have to love what you do, you have to have charisma, you have to love people and be personable. You have to have a lot of energy and be able to communicate well. I can say if you have all of these qualities, tourism will choose you without you choosing tourism.

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