A 10-year partnership involving domestic airports is expected to improve chances of hosting a Fiji Tourism Expo in the North.

“We know there is demand,” Tourism and Aviation minister, Viliame Gavoka said.

“Unlocking investments, diversifying offering, and dispersing tourism and its benefits were key priorities for the government,” he said.

Nukubati

Some properties up North include Nukubati Island, off the North Coast of Vanua Levu, a property with solar-power, harvest rainwater, and onsite farms.

But better infrastructure such as roading and internet connection is needed.

Resort manager Lara Vokai said they wanted to see a more green North.

“We need a better network to comment with more people, better roads to reach our property and our airport, to get more people in,” she said.

“Just being on the island makes you feel like you are a part of a community.

“So, happiness truly does come naturally.”

FTE 2023

The ninth edition of the Fijian Tourism Expo was bigger than last year with over 100 buyers from as far as Bulgaria and Switzerland, 84 sellers, and 10 international media from 14 countries.

Industry Performance

In the first quarter of the year, 175,284 visitors arrived as a reflection of a recovery of about 102 percent, compared to the same quarter pre-pandemic.

Hotels are reporting unprecedented bookings.

The industry is not only recovering as it is thriving.

“Tourism contributes the largest portion of our GDP,” Mr Gavoka said.

“It is the cornerstone of our economic well-being,” said Mr Gavoka.

“Today, we have recovered 71 percent of our 2019 visitor numbers with higher yields — paving the way for a full return to pre-pandemic levels by 2024.

“By value, we recovered 73 percent of our tourism earnings.

Story by: Waisea Nasokia

Feedback: waisean@fijisun.com.fj