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Charlotte Amalie
Friday, March 29, 2024
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In Response to 'Rude Locals'

Dear Source:
In response to Marilyn Kumar's opinion regarding "rude locals," I understand how someone could mistakenly think that when you visit an island, the "locals" are warm and friendly and everything is just fine and dandy – that's how marketing works. Please remember that people who are native to the islands have lives to live. You are there on vacation. They are there making a living the best way they can. It is foolish for you to expect every "local" to smile in your face just because you show up. This is not to say that the people of the Virgin Islands are not friendly. In fact, from my many visits there, I've found that most people of the Virgin Islands who I've had the pleasure to meet were very friendly and accommodating.
Some may argue that tourism drives the economy of the Virgin Islands, so the "locals" should do all they can to welcome tourists. When it comes down to it, unless they work in the tourist industry first hand, the "locals" don't see a bit of that money. I live in Washington, DC. Tourists converge on my city throughout the year. Some days I'm friendly; others I am not. If you're looking for someone to "shine," do us all a favor and stay home. Your presence will not be missed.

Markus L. Threatt
Washington, D.C.

Editor's note: We welcome and encourage readers to keep the dialogue going by responding to Source commentary. Letters should be e-mailed with name and place of residence to source@viaccess.net.

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