Features of our rich heritage should be incorporated into refurbishment projects

The infrastructural plans for the ferry system do provide an opportunity to further leverage the rich heritage of our country while elevating our level to that of a world class standard.

For example, the piers that are being refurbished, renovated and installed should incorporate features that speak to the heritage of the area. Whether it be the Dutch Fort that is being visited, the Light House or an Amerindian area that is being newly discovered by tourists, to be able to experience the architecture of an Amerindian Benab or something from the French, Dutch and English Colonial era makes travel throughout the country an adventure for the senses. A key standard component should be a covered waiting room that is guarded and has the basic well- maintained bathroom facilities. The piers should also be well maintained with rails and stairs where necessary.

The larger ports should also incorporate the artistic richness of the local population and have some historical information on display for increased awareness with informational content for tourists. Ecotourism is a very stimulating endeavour that brings the very inquisitive to visit. Learning about the natural habitat, the fauna, flora, animals, the inhabitants and the history of each landing point along the transport and ferry system provides a great opportunity to also incorporate the local population’s participation in the tourist industry’s development. Art, food and guided tours within and around the major ports help to increase the attractiveness of our Guyanese offering within the global tourist industry.

It does get very competitive and we must ensure we have an appealing, attractive, safe and distinct offering for our visitors. Our competitors and target consumers should be clearly outlined. Is it the independent adventurous traveller, a lover of horse racing or a family of environmental enthusiasts? Those in search of an alternative to a Safari, looking for a new and undiscovered frontier, learning about the lungs of the planet, green and environmentally conscious consumers all may be within the consumer category being pursued. It may be a mix of the aforementioned. Therefore our tourism offering must cater to the needs of those target consumers and should also meet the needs and desires of the intended group with the needs of the core group maintaining the top priority and focus of the sector’s development.

Sculpting the beauty of Our Dear Land via the tourism sector and new infrastructural investment brings with it a clearer outline of that beautiful woman in a dress wearing an elegant hat made for horse racing who we lovingly call Guyana.

Best regards,

Jamil Changlee

Chairman

The Cooperative Republicans of Guyana