Benefits and Consequences for the Destination, Tourism Industry, and the Local Residents

Benefits

Some benefits for local residents are that since the island prohibits franchises, it provides an opportunity for local businesses to flourish. Restaurants are able to present authentic cuisine that demonstrates Saba culture, which enriches the tourist's experience. Some "residents regarded tourism as a means of helping them learn about, share, and preserve their culture" (Morrison, 2013, p. 225). This prevents the island from becoming over commercialized therefore the local community immediately benefits from the tourism economic impact. Benefits for Saba are that the environment has not been exploited. "Destinations with rich and spectacular natural resources tend to be the most popular destinations", this shows that Saba's natural resources attract tourists (Morrison, 2013, p. 477). Because of their conservation efforts Saba has a private destination feel, and its conservation efforts ensure that the island will attract tourists for generations to come. Saba's culture and history is intact which differentiates itself from other Caribbean islands. Saba tourism uses its resources as its best asset to attract eco-tourism, which creates a lasting attraction for tourists. 

Consequences

Some consequences for the local residents are that the island has not been receiving as many tourists as it used to. Therefore, the tourism industry which provides for many families on the island is suffering and affecting the economy. Another consequence is that since the island does not allow major franchises the local residents need to make their local businesses appealing to international guests and handle the volume of tourists. Saba does not have aggressive marketing; therefore many people do not know about the island and it's vow to be nature conservation destination. Many Caribbean islands attract tourists because of their beaches, however since Saba has steep cliffs to the shore line Saba does not have any relaxing beaches, which some tourists prefer. This differentiates Saba from the typical Caribbean island vision.