PNG urged to cash in on authentic cultural tourism

Chris Flynn.

By MATTHEW VARI

Sunday, September 25, 2016 (PNG)

PAPUA New Guinea has been urged to cash in on huge rise in tourism from Asia, with a new breed authentic cultural tourism.

Tourism expert and Regional Director of Pacific-Asia Travel Association (PATA), Chris Flynn, spoke to those in attendance at the National Tourism Conference on Friday in Port Moresby, that with the speed of change that is currently taking the world through the growth of Asia- PNG is in need of capturing the huge market of culture.

Chris said the huge growing stressed out middle class in countries like China that presented a dilemma that would best fit with the need for the authentic cultural experience was tailored for a culturally diverse nation like PNG.

“What I am showing you here is the speed of change. What I am demonstrating here is how fast the world is changing.”

“There is a shift in consumer mindset. The emerging aspirations of the new traveller looking for spectacular landscapes, environmentally responsible destinations, that are culturally rich and pristine.”

He said with core values changing the uniqueness of product destinations presented appeal with a desire to be entertained and stimulated rather than just pampered.

“Story telling in one of the most important things you should do. You have a million stories here, whether you can communicate it orally, video- people want something that they can take away.”

“They want to come here not to take anything away from you but to help you protect your environment and culture,” Flynn said.

He pointed the benefits would be beneficial not only to the tourism sector, but also the country as a whole.

An estimated direct benefit of US$625 million is made to the global economy, with direct benefit in the Asia Pacific Region US$327 million.

“Supports 50 million jobs in Asia-Pacific, preservation and restoration of cultural heritage, drives economic sustainability, creates unique destination character and identity, protects and encourages cultural pride.”

His presentation highlighted consideration to booming economies of Asian Countries, its growing middle class with increased personal wealth and disposable income, the growing breed of new cultural travellers, that want to explore more remote destinations with spectacular landscape and unspoilt nature.

The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) is a membership association working to promote the responsible development of travel and tourism in the Asia Pacific region.