Myanmar is repositioning itself as a leading environmental destination as part of a set of steps outlined in a white paper aimed at restoring tourism.
A set of proposals are presented in the white paper to boost the industry further once the borders reopen.
May Myat Mon Win, chairman of Myanmar Tourism Marketing, said: "We have to think about the opportunities. What are we going to get, and how do we create a better rebuilding environment based on those opportunities?
We have to be creative and inventive.'
It is proposed that the industry focuses on responsible and sustainable management of tourism under the measures. This includes better quality of current goods and new activities.
Nicole Häusler, the co-author of the White Paper, said: "When planning for the new normal scheme, the focus should no longer be exclusively on Yangon, Mandalay, Inle Lake, and Bagan's four main destinations, but on ecotourism and outdoor and adventure activities.
Häusler added that new products, such as ziplining, rock climbing, agrotourism, bird watching, wildlife tourism, going to cave, cycling, and watersports, should be included.
She said: "What is essential to adapt to these new travel trends is to consider the readiness of destinations along the supply chain of tourism. Only when a destination and community members links to those products are ready, we will be able to establish it.
Another essential aspect is ensuring the industry cleans its act. Campaigns to increase awareness are now underway to help industry players consider the harmful effects of throwing waste in nature, especially plastic products.
Myanmar Tourism Marketing chairperson, May Myat Mon Win, said that they need to urge consumers to avoid single-use plastic waste by replacing it with green products that are available locally.
Green activists now work in various areas, including Inle Lake and Yangon, where young ambassadors conduct environmental campaigns. Häusler said: "Together with our Chinese colleagues, we need to build sustainable tours to achieve benefits for Myanmar, especially along the whole tourism supply chain."
Another factor before reopening is visa waiver services and lowered visa costs, as well as absolute clarity on quarantine and other conditions that need to be communicated to travelers before they visit.
Source: TTG
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