Stocking Isalnd, Exuma - The Bahamas has historically been considered a destination guests flock to because of its sun, sand, and sea and the friendliness of its people. However, with an increasing crime problem and congestion in our major population centers, some argue that The Bahamas has lost some of its charm. It is the charm of the old Bahamas that Kenneth 'KB' Bowe has focused on for the past 14 years with Bowe's Chat 'N' Chill bar and lounge.
"I opened Chat 'N' Chill because I found out that people wanted the old Bahamas. They didn't want Miami Beach," he said. "As a trained economist from the University of Chicago, I did some research and got the figures. I come from an empirical background so the proof of the pudding is in the eating. "When you come up with the figures and see what it is that people want, you can't offer what everyone else is offering, and that's why my business has been doing so well... because it's different."
Bowe has focused on refining his product over the years. "Before opening, I did a six-year research and found out that less is best. Originally, I catered to boaters. Over time, I grew from that to incorporate hotel guests. One of the key successes to business is not to depend on airlines," he said. "People come here by boats or personal plane. For us, the hotel guests are considered a bonus."
While Bowe has been successful and he has six full-time employees, he said finding good and reliable employees has been challenging. "My challenge has been finding people who are serious about working. In this country, people want something for nothing," he said. "So, I have had to go out and make it happen to make sure that my business is able to run everyday. I am closed for only two days out of the year, Christmas Day and Good Friday. Reliability is a key factor." Chat 'N' Chill operates daily from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Bowe confirmed that he is getting ready to open a gift shop that will be owned and operated by his wife. It will sell authentically Bahamian products.
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