The Guyana Tourism and Hospitality Association (THAG) and the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) have launched an initiative to promote Guyana’s eco-lodges and resorts.
The initiative is called “Guyana Escapes 2023.”
The joint venture gives small eco-lodges and resorts the support needed to create promotional content and push marketing and promotional campaigns.
Businesses will be required to develop new exciting new experiences to attract tourists during the “off-season” when many travelers and tourists stay at hotels and within cities rather than tourist sites.
The initiative was launched on Wednesday at the Herdmanston Lodge, Peter Rose Street, Georgetown and coincides with World Tourism Day being held under the theme “Tourism and Green Investments”.
Delivering remarks at the event, President of THAG, Omodelle George said this is an activity to focus solely on lesser advertised places.
“As Guyana continues along her expansion path and as she continues to take advantage of Government’s leading technology incentives to seek and to encompass best practices into our operations, it is this theme that also stimulated the launch of the Guyana Escapes 2023.
“[It] is in collaboration and recognition of the value and balance that eco-lodges and resorts provide,” the THAG President said.
She added that it highlights THAG’s commitment to assisting with activities that will drive tourists to Guyana. It will run for six weeks, starting on November 1.
Tourism businesses that wish to participate must be licensed by or in the process of becoming license by the GTA. Those that develop new experiences will receive a 25% discount on the GTA licensing fees in the upcoming year. And if they manage to sell 25 or more of their promotional packaged during the six week period, THAG will offer a 25% discount on Membership dues the following year.
George said these promotions are cost effective and make it easier for businesses to offer the best prices for customers.
“We also remember that our success hinges on attractive prices and our industry partners play a critical role in making this initiative a resounding success,” George said.
Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce Oneidge Walrond said this investment by the private sector will greatly add to the development of Guyana’s tourism sector.
“…we want to provide the support and it is for the private sector to run with the vision,” the Minister said.
