Obediah (Obie) Wilchcombe
Where were you born? In Freeport. In the Bahamas.
How long have you been in the business? For 7 years, during which I have been an MP and Minister of Tourism. Previous to that I was in journalism all my working life, except for 4 years in prison.
In prison? Yes, when I was a journalist I was imprisoned for refusing to name a person who was a source of information.
And today…how many people work for the Ministry of Tourism? 370. Tourism is our biggest industry, about 60% of our GDP.
What’s the best part of the job? Creating opportunities.
What did you want to be as a kid? A football player in the NFL. But I never got beyond 5’8” (laughs) – and I would have needed something to fall back on.
What was your first ever job? Selling newspapers on the street corner, at age 11. We used to yell “TRI-BUTE!”
What’s the scariest thing you’ve ever done? In 2004, sitting out Hurricane Francis in my constituency with senior residents who didn’t want to leave their homes. I am proud that I stayed with my people, but it was more frightening than prison.
Any guilty pleasures? Ah. Lay's potato chips. BBQ flavour.
Favourite hotel chain? InterContinental.
What’s on your iPad? Notes, lots of notes. I read everything. Also some pictures and some music: Bob Marley and Celine Dion. I’m a big fan of Celine.
What do people not know about you? That I’m shy. I am a loner by nature and actually don’t like giving speeches.
Any hobbies or interests? Sport. NFL, baseball, basketball – the agility of these giant men!
When were you happiest? When I got my first job in broadcasting, at age 16. I was the most happy man.
What skill or talent do you admire in someone? The ability to sing. I am the best in the shower…but that’s the extent of it!
How do you spend your frequent flyer points? I give them away to staff.
What’s at the top of your bucket list? You know, nothing. I feel like I’ve already been everywhere.
Ever had a brush with fame? I once met Celine Dion and her husband on a golf course on Exuma.
What keeps you awake at night? Late night sports. That’s all.
What is your greatest extravagance? I give away a lot. I’ve been that way since high school.
How do you stay fit when you travel? Sit ups and jumping jacks in my hotel room.
If you could change one thing about the industry what would it be? The heavy airport security. It takes away all the excitement and joy of travel.
If you could sit next to anyone on a long-haul flight, who would it be? Bill Clinton.
What kind of car do you drive? A Masuka – and the official car is a hybrid of some sort.
Do you have a favourite charity? Anything to do with children.
What will be the biggest challenge for the industry in the next 12 months? Terrorism. The closer it comes to home, the more reluctant people are to travel.
What do you hope to be doing in 10 years? Retired! And writing books and helping others.
