The Solomon Islands Visitors Bureau is on track to hit its target of 9% growth for 2016, with May visitor numbers up an impressive 12.8% on 2015’s figures.
Australians continue to be the most important market for the destination, with May’s 770 visitors representing 40.5% of all arrivals.
Assorted media were treated to an update on the country’s progress at Cafe Del Mar restaurant in Sydney yesterday, attended by the largest tourism delegation from the Solomon Islands to visit Australia’s shores.
In attendance were Solomon Islands Minister for Culture and Tourism, the Hon. Bartholomew Parapolo, along with Permanent Secretary to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Andrew Nihopara, Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Director of Tourism, Barney Savoro, Solomon Islands Visitors Bureau Board Chairman, Wilson Ne’e and Solomon Islands Visitors Bureau CEO, Josefa Tuamoto.
Parapolo welcomed Australian media and praised the travel industry in this country for its support of the Solomon Islands, stating that “Australia is a key development partner for the Solomon Islands and a close friend. Australia will remain a key market for the Solomon Islands.”
Raising the standard of tourism and infrastructure facilities was a key goal for the Solomon Islands government Parapolo said. “There will be changes to the tourism legislation to make the country more visitor friendly. The government is adopting a new national tourism policy which will support and improve tourism, transport and infrastructure in the Solomon Islands,” he said.
“Also planned is a raising of the quality of service and accommodation throughout the islands,” Parapolo added.
Several airport upgrades, in conjunction with the New Zealand government, along with an overhaul of Honiara’s cruise ship berthing facilities are also on the agenda, Parapolo said. The Solomon Islands welcomed four major cruise ships in 2015, with double that number expected in 2016.
The minister concluded by thanking the Australian government, travel trade and media for their ongoing support in raising the profile of the Solomon Islands.
