Huge drop in tourist arrivals

Huge drop in tourist arrivals
http://www.fijisun.com.fj/ - 3/19/2009

A total of 32,955 tourists arrived in the country in January which is a 27.6per cent drop compared to last year.
Tourism Fiji board chairman Patrick Wong yesterday said the first quarter of 2009 is likely to record a drop of 25per cent but they are working hard to bring in more tourists.
“We are having tactical campaigns in New Zealand and a stimulus package campaign in Australia,” he said.
Mr Wong said a “Fiji Me” roadshow is currently being held in New Zealand where they have visited places like Whangarei, Auckland, Hamilton, Christchurch and Dunedin. “Tourism Fiji and our industry partners are presenting Fiji directly to trade partners under one roof in the locations.
“It effectively trains and provides our trade partners with up-to-date knowledge of Fiji as a destination as well as the range of products we have to offer penetrating the markets.”
Mr Wong said the roadshow is a marketing initiative that is cost effective, focused and suitable for a market such as New Zealand that has such a diverse geographical spread.He said Tourism Fiji’s activities in Europe includes the DAS BOOT in Dusseldorf, Germany, an event serving boat owners, yachts, divers and tourism destinations, BIT in Milan, Italy, ITB in Berlin, Germany and MITT in Moscow.
“These leading trade shows showcase the best international tourism suppliers and presents the entire spectrum of products of the tourism industry”
Mr Wong said these trade shows are prime meeting places that provides outstanding opportunities for the private sector to present their product and enhance their image serving the travel and tourism industry.
“In light of the global financial crisis, it is critical that Fiji maintains its market stamina, being visibility and remaining focused for long term benefits of Fiji’s Tourism Industry investing into the future of our country”.
He said occupancy levels are also soft throughout the region as February and March are our traditional low season months of the year which are further impacted by the financial crisis.
“Hotel worker are exhausting all annual leave owing prior to temporary workers released from their duties. Depending on occupancy after exhausting all avenues permanent employees are worked on a shorter working week.
“I would say the worse is over with February and March being traditionally our lowest tourism season of the year.”