Reliable internet connectivity will boost Guyana’s tourism product – Minister Hughes
DPI, GUYANA, Monday, March 5, 2018
Minister of Public Telecommunications, Catherine Hughes believes that fast and reliable internet connectivity at the Atta Rainforest Lodge will offer greater opportunities for its promotion, as well as the Iwokrama Canopy Walkway.
Minister of Public Telecommunications, Hon. Catherine Hughes examines a tree in the Iwokrama Rainforest.
During a recent outreach in the Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo Region (Region Nine), Minister Hughes and her team took time out from their busy schedule to tour the Iwokrama Rainforest and experience crossing the canopy walkway.
In an interview on the sidelines of the visit, Minister Hughes pointed to the fact that once the area is promoted Guyana’s tourism product will be boosted.
Many tourists from around the world visit the Lodge, where they are taken on tours through the Iwokrama rainforest and across the Canopy walkway. The forest is rich with indigenous species of trees and wildlife and the highlight is the walk across the canopy.
The Atta Lodge is located at the base of the walkway among the towering trees and rich green lawns. The nature walks offer a close-up view of the fascinating wildlife and the rich biodiversity.
The Minister, who previously held responsibility for Tourism, said more needs to be done to promote the area as a wonderful tourist spot in Guyana.
Minister of Public Telecommunications, Hon. Catherine Hughes and team listen attentively to the tour guided during nature walk.
She said social media advertising has proven effective in the promotion of businesses, however, she acknowledged that the infrastructure needs to be put in place to enable the caretakers of the Atta Rainforest Lodge take advantage of this opportunity.
Internet is provided at the Lodge, and other communities in Region Nine, through a private company, but many residents and village leaders complain about the slothfulness of the service.
The Iwokrama Canopy Walkway and Atta Rainforest Lodge are jointly operated by the Indigenous community of Surama, the Rock View Lodge, the Iwokrama International Centre for Rainforest Conservation, and Wilderness Explorers.
Minister Hughes, impressed with the service offered, there said the nature experience will be appreciated by international visitors and even locals.
The Atta Rainforest Lodge provides comfortable accommodation with eight (8) private rooms and individual open- sky bathrooms. Meals mostly Guyanese cuisine are freshly prepared for guests and day visitors.
By: Stacy Carmichael