|
Summary
of discussion on tourism policy in Seychelles, Indian Ocean
Number of
substantive responses = 27
48% support
the idea that a tourism policy based mainly on up-market resorts
is misguided
- An emphasis
on large resorts cuts out many local players and may cause social
problems
- Large foreign-owned
establishments often result in profits leaving the island
- Small establishments
provide more benefit to local people, and to the local economy,
especially if they are well marketed
- Government
policy in some islands favours large investors; such a policy
may have human-rights implications
4% support
the concept that an up-market tourism policy provides many unique
benefits
- Benefits
include increased spending power, a market for special services,
limited environmental impact
4% support
the need for a balanced approach
- Some islands
are already seen as 5-star destinations, and within them there
is a need to provide a range of accommodations
19% support
the view that a good tourism policy requires cooperation from
all societal sectors
- Dialogue
and active involvement of government agencies, NGOs, the private
sector and communities is essential for an effective tourism
policy that is beneficial to the island
- Tourism
needs to provide for the development of local people as well
as supplying foreign exchange
- In view
of the vulnerability of the tourism industry to global events,
a diversified economy is sounder than one based purely on tourism
29% discussed
other issues
- People
need to take action
- Governments
need to implement laws
- This forum
needs to be more interactive
- Long-distance
air travel is damaging to the environment
|
