WITH its largest-ever display and an outstanding array of partners showcasing the best of this adventure-driven, nature-rich location, the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) made waves at the World Travel Market in London earlier this month.

The GTA’s director, Kamrul Baksh, via video footage highlighted that Guyana has an impressive expansion in tourism experiences, connectivity, and infrastructure. He also noted that with the country’s breathtaking wildlife, engaging cultural experiences, and distinctive culinary scene, Guyana offers a strong value proposition to tourists.

According to him, “this is the largest booth that we have ever had at the World Travel Market and the largest contingent. It has been an exceptional journey so far here; lots of interest has already been generated with the booth and with all of the other trade partners that we have here as well.”

Baksh further stated that they have the opportunity again on the global stage to showcase Destination Guyana, and that is what they will continue to do to ensure that they are positioned in the best possible way, he added.

Emphasising that Guyana is known for its nature adventure and sustainable eco-responsible niche, Baksh said that as a country, they are continuing to make the right connections and networks with their fellow trade partners in the United Kingdom (UK) and elsewhere.

He shared that through the trade exhibition they were also able to engage with other tour operators, marketers, and data intelligence companies who have expressed how pleased and “blown away” they are by the progress that has been made in Guyana over the last four years.

Speaking on Guyana’s value proposition for British and European tourists, Baksh stated that the country has benefitted greatly from Guyana’s re-established direct connection to the UK through British Airways for both domestic travel and trade.

While the direct connection to the UK has served well for travel and trade in Guyana, the GTA director also stated that the occupancy and payload of the flight that is operating twice weekly has been tremendous.

He also explained that outside of the diaspora, people are visiting for the nature, soft adventure, immersive culture, and other experiences that the Destination Guyana has to offer.

Giving an insight of the new products, services, and the transformational development of Guyana under the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) government, Baksh said that with 13 hotels currently under construction, the transformational boom for tourists is massive.

According to him, this type of investment will provide “quality accommodation” for travellers coming from the UK and the rest of the world. Baksh said, “With great connectivity now, and by the end of the year we will have a direct connection with Colombia and Grenada. We also have connections in the pipelines… and there are lots of developments that are happening simultaneously that will propel the destination to be even more competitive than it currently is.”

Additionally, Baksh said that the Government of Guyana is investing heavily in training capacity building, and most importantly, he said that Guyana is working with their Caribbean and regional counterparts to strengthen a quality destination for all to enjoy.

Just coming off the heels of one of the most successful Cricket Carnival periods and the upcoming Global Super League tournament, the GTA Director said that the World Travel Market in London plays an integral role in ensuring that people are aware of all that is happening in the country.

Working on creating unique events and activities for people to come and be a part of in Guyana, Baksh said that they believe in the creation of high-calibre products and services.

Finaly, Baksh added that due to the diversity of cultures, Destination Guyana provides a culinary experience that is second to none around the world.