PNG should improve image to attract higher yielding tourists, says Sir Peter

THE country’s tourism industry should go into damage control to minimise the adverse effect it has on poor image, says Madang businessman Sir Peter Barter.
“List the obstacles and then determine the way each obstacle can be overcome – this is possible with the right leadership and funding,” he said.
Sir Peter said Papua New Guinea had a perception of corruption, crime and a high cost of travel.
He told The National more needed to be done in the country’s tourism industry following the visitor arrival report for 2019 released by the PNG Tourism Promotion Authority recently.
“The best way to do this is by publicising the positive things about PNG; by inviting journalists, file units, photographers, developing products that are saleable and affordable and the establishment of facilities such as the expedition ships we are proposing for Sepik River and other world-class facilities that will attract higher yield tourists that can afford to visit PNG,” he said.
“Hotels will not necessarily attract tourists.
“A tourist wants to experience something different.”