I am very pleased with the vast development that the tourism industry has undergone over the last two years. Returning to Guyana for the first time in 10 years for the Cricket World Cup was indeed a surprise for me.

I was astonished to see over 50 hotels listed around Guyana. The large number that was accessible in Georgetown would make it difficult for a tourist to decide where to stay.

I happened to spend my time here in Guyana by the Ariantze located in Middle Street which is owned by one of Guyana’s respected media representatives which was of good standard.

The issue that bothers me is why that particular owner seems to be degrading her own stream of business.

I read an article in Stabroek News which said that “the government needs to take a more proactive role in facilitating the industry through aggressive marketing of Guyana’s Tourism products”. I think she should have rephrased that by saying that hoteliers need to take a more proactive role in marketing what they have to offer.

This administration has gone miles in taking Guyana to the next level and hotel owners should play their

part. It really stunned me that Ms. Cathy Hughes is saying this. Come on! It is persons in your profession that are blazing the media with negative reports giving Guyana a bad image. As a respected and leading member in her profession, she should have taken a strong stand with her colleagues and corrected those negative images of Guyana.

You need to combine journalism with your business skills to produce profit. Owners need to propose other alternatives to gain profit in their business.

I commend the government for their strong commitment to the development of this country and suggest that other agencies strive for the same.
OMESH SHIVRAJ