Superior product, services and facilities has been the basis of Royal Davui Island Resort becoming a finalist in the 2015 ANZ Fiji Excellence in Tourism Awards once again.

The resort’s a finalist in the Accommodation Deluxe category and was finalists in the same awards category the past year.  The awards are the biggest in our tourism industry, will be held on Friday at the Denarau Convention Centre.

The Fiji Excellence in Tourism Awards celebrates the exceptional performance of those who have given contributions to the Fijian Tourism industry.

Resort general manager, Michael McCullagh, said: “It is always an honour to be recognised as one of the industry leaders in what is a most competitive market both locally and internationally.”

Mr McCullagh said being nominated is a great reflection on the Royal Davui Island Resort product, particularly in terms of the facilities and first class service that is provided to all of our guests.”

“Having 16 Villas, thus a maximum of only 32 guests, we are able to ensure the highest quality and personalised service,” he said.

“Our facilities on offer including Day Spa, PADI Dive Centre, an abundance of daily activities ensures all our guests have an opportunity to experience real Fiji life.”

Mr McCullagh believes the awards are important for the entire Fijian tourism industry as they provide a platform to recognise the leaders within the industry.

“The award also gives category winners the ability to capitalise and benefit from the award through their own ongoing sales and marketing efforts,” he said.

Sun INTERVIEW-Michael McCullagh

How would you describe our tourism industry at present?
There is significant competition both locally and internationally for the travel dollar, it is imperative that marketing efforts from both individual tourism operators.
And on a more global scale, Tourism Fiji, all work together in order to ensure maximum exposure and benefit.

What are some of the things needed to stimulate the industry further?
I believe we need to continue to have a major presence globally in terms of e marketing, trade show attendance, print exposure etc.
We need to ensure that we have a clear understanding of not only what our direct competitors are offering locally, but also understand what is on offer from international competitors such as the South East of Asia, the Caribbean and closer to home, Samoa, Vanuatu.

What further opportunities do you see in this industry?
With new and improved tourism products entering the market, this can always provide opportunities through increased sales and marketing efforts ensuring greater exposure for Fiji and what it has to offer.
This will always provide benefit for our industry partners that have the potential to see an increase in the dollars being spent by our guests and travellers.

During the downtimes in the tourism sector, what sort of strategies do you apply to make up for the slow period?
We have numerous strategies that we implement when our booking pace decreases, we ensure that our pricing is competitive, our packages on offer are providing excellent value for money and finally we will investigate potential new markets.

Edited by: rachna lal