Czech tourists see PNG as exotic destination

MORE than 70 Czechoslovakian tourists embarked on a full-day tour of Port Moresby tour on Saturday marking one of the largest groups to traverse through the city.
Arriving on a private Boeing 737 on Friday, the group comprising of ESO Travel’s staff and tourists embarked on a day of exploration around the city, visiting the National Museum, Parliament House and the Port Moresby Nature Park.
The group’s visit was made possible through the collaborative efforts of Trans Niugini Tours and ESO Travel, a leading Czech travel agency renowned for specialising in exotic destinations.
ESO Travel marketing director Tomas Ruzicka said PNG had potential as a prime tourist destination.
“PNG is such a culturally diverse location, and this is the major attraction for our customers. It’s the authenticity of this destination that makes it one of our most exotic destinations in the world,” he said.
“The last time we brought tourists here, there were only around 20 people, now there’s more than 70. I think it will continue to increase as PNG becomes one of our most loved exotic destinations.”
Ruzicka emphasised the importance of government support in building the tourism sector in PNG’s economy.
“For the future of tourism in PNG, I think the government has to prioritise tourism as one of the key contributors in the country’s economy,” Ruzicka said.
Trans Niugini Tours quality assurance manager and operations coordinator Rachel Lare said that she was pleased to be a part of the tour in Port Moresby.
“ESO Travel has been sending tourists to Papua New Guinea annually. However, due to the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, their operations were temporarily halted. This year’s visit, organised as a private charter, marked a significant return for both ESO Travel and tourism in PNG,” she said.
Lare said she hoped to continue working with ESO Travel and PNG Tourism Promotion Authority to promote the country.
“This year is our return to tourism and I am happy to work with all stakeholders to ensure that every tourist leaves Papua New Guinea with unforgettable memories and a deep appreciation for our country’s natural beauty and vibrant culture,” Lare said.
Eric Mossman Uvovo, chief executive officer of the Tourism Promotion Authority, said that the visit of the group not only shows the growing interest in PNG as a unique destination, but also highlights the immense potential for development within the country’s tourism sector.
“The visit of the Czech tourist group is a testament to the allure of Papua New Guinea’s cultural and natural wonders. As more travelers discover the beauty and cultural richness of PNG. The future of tourism in Papua New Guinea appears increasingly promising,” he said.