NESTLED in the picturesque village of Bethany, along the Supenaam Creek, in Region Two, the newly opened Bethany Guest House offers a new experience to both local and foreign visitors.
Toshao Sonia Latchman confirmed that this initiative, originally conceptualised by the previous Village Council under her leadership, is now open to the public.
During an interview, Latchman shared that visitors often fall in love with the village’s enchanting scenery, soothing black water, and the melodic sounds of local birds. The guest house offers three standard-sized fan rooms, starting at just $8,000.
For those seeking a more adventurous experience, hammock rentals and a dedicated park for hammock setup are available. Additionally, residents provide catering services, allowing guests to enjoy local cuisine, though meals are not included in the package.
For convenience, ATV bikes and private boat services are available to transport visitors to the guest house. Latchman said that the guest house project was born out of necessity.
“Many visitors expressed a desire to stay, but we lacked proper accommodations,” she said.
Following a unanimous decision at a village meeting, the community embarked on this project as a means of generating income and promoting tourism in Bethany.
“The guest house is a sustainable project that will boost tourism and generate revenue for our village,” Latchman said.
Since its opening recently, the guest house has already welcomed its first guest, who stayed free of charge. The facility, constructed using grants from 2021 and 2022, boasts a breezy ambiance and an exclusive tourism package.
Plans are underway to install a kitchen, further enhancing the guest experience. In addition to comfortable accommodations, residents will venture into the craft business, offering visitors a glimpse into their rich culture and traditions.
The revenue generated will fund other community projects, reducing dependence on government support.
“We aim to use our resources wisely and invest in projects that promote self-sufficiency,” Latchman said.
Guests at the Bethany Guest House can enjoy swimming and canoeing, and immersing themselves in the natural beauty of the area.
Latchman emphasised that Bethany offers a unique tourism experience, distinct from Georgetown, with its numerous trails, vibrant birdlife, and serene black water. As a Seventh-Day Adventist village, Bethany observes the Sabbath on Saturdays, and visitors are expected to respect this tradition. However, they are welcome to visit over the weekend.
Efforts are also being made to install free Wi-Fi for guests. Latchman expressed gratitude to the government for the grants that made this project possible, highlighting the positive impact it will have on the community.
Her message to persons was: “Come and discover the hidden gem of Bethany, where nature, culture, and tranquility await.
