First attract tourists

“Bid to expand Bay air link to boost trade and tourism” (February 12) refers.

I am writing this letter to the executive mayor and municipal manager because I care about my city.

I am concerned and disappointed by the short-sightedness of economic development boss Anela Qaba on his understanding and vision of air link and airlift strategy.

In my many years of working in different airlines, I have witnessed ambitious and unrealistic plans like this failing because of poor research.

All the routes that Mr Qaba promises Nelson Mandela Bay residents and businesses – Nelspruit, Namibia and Zimbabwe – will not be possible even in the next 10 years, especially if the priorities are not right, hence Mr Qaba is mumbling about details of these routes.

What will he show or give tourists when they get here?

An ideal goal post is to focus on maintaining existing tourism facilities and infrastructure and develop new experiences.

I recently visited Springs Resorts after 10 years – what an appalling standard.

I was also dismayed on the closure of Red Location Museum, an iconic attraction for international visitors.

Let us spend this effort and financial resources on developing Nelson Mandela Bay as a tourism destination, then we will attract tourists and keep them longer.

On the contrary, Mr Qaba indicated few days later on the front page of The Herald that visitors had declined, therefore, it suggests there is no substance for these additional air flights.

Airlines are about numbers of passengers and these numbers could be generated if we focus our effort and finances on addressing the tourism plant to host them.

Jonker van Tonden, Port Alfred

ý Out-of-control crime in CBD is the main reason for tourists now staying away.

Just my view, Port Elizabeth

ý Drop in visitors – they may be put off by invisible road markings in Summerstrand. Dangerous. Shocking neglect.

Ratepayer, Port Elizabeth