Tourism Authority says more locals enjoying tours, domestic experiences  

A high number of foreigners are travelling to Guyana to explore the country and while there has been an overall “uptake” in tours, the Guyana Tourism Authority said focus is being placed on ensuring locals are being afforded the same opportunity.

“Tourism is not only about persons coming into the country but for the local market it is also very important,” Director at Guyana Tourism Authority Kamrul Baksh said recently.

Speaking at a press conference last Friday, Baksh said within the last few years, there has been the creation of new experiences with numerous products being launched, diversifying options for the local market to engage.

This, he said has resulted in an increase in domestic tourism.

“We have seen and we have heard from the private sector, from the operators that there is an increase in domestic tourism,” Baksh said.

According to Baksh, discussions were also held with stakeholders to facilitate deals of packages offered for tours, at prices that are accommodating to locals.

And currently, he said tourism hotspots are experiencing the highest level of visitations from locals.

“That is because we have also put on a lot of campaigns for the local market. For example, last year we had the passport initiative which had 40 experiences at heavily discounted rates.

“From time to time we also ask operators to offer discounted rates and specials, Baksh said.

Most of the deals, he said are offered during the peak period but emphasis also being placed on other time around the year.

“We are looking at not only at peak periods but also at off peak periods. We are looking at periods where there are holidays as well to put on experiences.

“All and all I can say we have seen an uptake in those tours,” Baksh said.