The Fiji Times reports one of the largest wholesalers of Fiji’s main source market believes the global financial crisis is the most opportune time for the local tourism industry.
Fiji Specialist Holidays, which sends more than 22,000 Australians to Fiji’s shores annually, says the global financial crisis could only bring about enormous benefits for the industry.
Farid Hacene, of FSH, says while other destinations are bracing themselves and already experience an impact, Fiji was likely to do well throughout the situation.
He said even though tourists were being more cautious with their finances, the desire to travel for holidays was still present and Fiji was an ideal destination for Australians.
With customers now cutting back on long-haul destinations, Mr Hacene said Fiji tourism would benefit a lot from Australian tourists.
He said with Fiji practically being a neighbouring country, tourists would never rule it out as a holiday destination.
Mr Hacene said despite the political turmoil two years ago, Australians still regard the nation as one of the safest destinations due to the amazing hospitality and friendliness of the Fijian people.
However, Mr Hacene said it was now up to industry stakeholders to carry out the proper groundwork to ensure Australians are drawn to Fiji shores through attractive offers and packages.
“They can’t afford to sit here and not do anything.” “It is very important that very competitive pricing is put up to attract tourists,” he said.
A Report by The Mole
