TO effectively promote and market tourism in Guyana there must be the presence of good infrastructure and immense patriotism.

This declaration was made by acting Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Irfaan Ali as he addressed attendees to the thirteenth hosting of the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) Annual Awards Ceremony at the National Convention Centre on Wednesday evening last.
Noting that tourism is the most important and strategic sector to further Guyana’s future growth and development, the minister added that good levels of service are also vital in promoting Guyana’s tourism sector on the international front.
The minister emphasised that the expansion of Guyana’s economy lies in tourism, citing the investing in a boat yard and marina can bring a great turn around in our tourism drive.
Ali informed that the tourism sector is an energetic body, noting that though ‘it may not be in the biggest scheme of things’ it would eventually succeed if all Guyana can believe in its potential to attract visitors.
The minister noted that this ‘belief’ must come from a culture that understands tourism, which must become ‘a way of life’ for Guyanese. While he indicated that there can be no tourism product without the involvement of culture, the minister declared that Guyana possesses a rich and diversified culture, emphasised that it is a national responsibility that this culture greets the tourists when they arrive in Guyana.
While he noted that the private sectors needs to be applauded for their role in promoting tourism, he explained that the expansion of small hotels is evidence of the growing role of this sector in marketing and promoting

Guyana’s tourism.
Relating that air service is critically linked to the survival of the tourism industry, the minister stressed on the immediate need for an adequate airport, explaining that the presence of ‘too much passenger build up’ at this facility is not a welcoming sign for visitors.
He cited the need for the present runway at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport to be extended by some 9,000 feet, he hinted that Guyana loses in varying sectors since there is no adequate facility like the Marriot Hotel which is nearing completion.
With respect to air transport he disclosed that hopefully in a few weeks the Ministry would be able to make an announcement on a major air carrier that would be operating in Guyana.
While he contended that ‘selfish desires’ are often allowed to damage the tourism sector he noted that the media fraternity has a responsible role to play in understanding and effectively promoting tourism.

The proud nominees who were awarded for their sterling contributions in the tourism sector at TEH Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) Annual Awards Ceremony.

Applauds
In making special mention of private contributors that continue to market Guyana as a tourism destination, Ali lauded Jerry Goveia of the Roraima Group of Companies for his independent role in marketing Guyana as a tourism high point over the years through his services.
He also praised King’s Jewellery and Steve’s Jewellery for being registered entities, emphasising that only registered businesses would receive incentives and promotion priority through the tourism body.
He added that for Guyana to outweigh challenges that may be faced in promoting this sector, there needs to be a bold and ambitious vision created to ensure eventual success.

Marketing
Commenting on marketing, Ali noted that while the Marriot International Hotel has an extensive marketing plan, he is however pleased with the efforts of several small hotels whose marketing drive is ensuring that at least 500 tourists are coming to Guyana every month, thus forcing these smaller entities to prepare for the growing numbers.
He also explained the dire need for combined efforts to be made to get the very large and prestigious tourism and sports events to come to Guyana so has to ensure hotels are filled to capacity, and the Bed and Breakfast Programme reaching maximum capacity.
The minister discussed the need for Guyana to be made a vibrant ‘transportation hub’ in anticipation of the Brazil World Cup Football tournament, touting that there is a need for a combined marketing effort, involving government and the tourism and private sectors.

Making an impact
He said Guyana is showcased on the Live and Length Radio Network which comprises of some twenty two radio stations targeting over 850,000 listeners. He said that Guyana has also won top awards at various tourism forums, and has been mentioned in editorials of worldwide publications, an indication that we are making an impact as a tourism package.
He noted that while a filming entity from Germany has just completed filming in the Essequibo, other related bodies from foreign countries have indicated their interest in doing future filming at the Kaieteur Falls and other exotic sites in Guyana.
Informing that Guyana has also been added to the Top 50 Tours of a Lifetime by the National Geographic, he affirmed that Guyana is growing as a tourism destination. He concluded by commending all stake holders and urging them to work on building a strong tourism sector.
Another article on this event would be published again on Saturday relating presentations by Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, GTA’s President, Keith Nascimento, and guest speaker, Mr. Johnson Johnrose, Communications Specialist of the Caribbean Tourism Organisation.

(By Alex Wayne)