At last there's been an announcement about the long-talked-about airport for St Helena. Whilst I quite understand the islanders' enthusiasm, I just think it's a terrible shame to ruin what is a wonderful destination and make it just the same as anywhere else. The line taken is that it will raise the number of visitors from 900 a year to 30,000 which makes my blood run cold. They also say that it will enable the island to become self-sufficient which I, personally, think is a load of rubbish.
I know opinion is divided but that doesn't stop me having a very strong one. I know it's not my island, but I have over a quarter of a century of experience of marketing remote tourist destinations and also seeing beautiful places being spoilt by development, not just for the visitors but, much more importantly, for the local people. Promises are dangled which make the whole project look attractive, but no-one listens to the voice of experience - and I'm noet just talking about me here.
Anyway, I'm going to spend the rest of today putting together two new tours for St Helena - one for the Walking Festival in June and the next for October 2012. They should be up on the website soon but if you want advance information give me a call on 01764 670107. We haven't got schedules for the Royal Mail Ship beyond the end of 2012 (another frustration!). And, of course, we are now offering independent travel on any of the ship's voyages when we can book your accommodation on the island as well and advise you on what to see and do when you get there.
I don't know if you've noticed but I love St Helena! It's right up there with my favourite places in the world.
Comments