WILLEMSTAD - The occupancy figures of the Curaçao Apartments and Small Hotel Association (CASHA), the interest association of entrepreneurs working in the tourism sector, reached a low point in January. This is just under 20 percent for the affiliated companies.
The business owners have had to deal with many cancellations, with some accommodations even up to 100 percent of the bookings. The accommodations mainly give the feeling of travel shame in the Netherlands. CASHA: "You are an a-hole when you travel, it is said, but also the lack of clarity about the rules makes people decide not to go and wait for better times."
Furthermore, some accommodations have indicated that the prices per night are structurally lower than in 2020 in order to still generate some income. In addition, many small businesses are often excluded from the support schemes, according to CASHA. The interest group is disappointed at the Ministry of Economic Development, which has not yet responded to their cry for help. The business owners are struggling to keep their heads above water. CASHA: "Some have already drowned, others will soon follow."