EXPERT SAYS OPTIMISTIC ABOUT TOURISM PROSPECTS IN ARMENIA

ARKA
June 18, 2009

YEREVAN, June 18. /ARKA/. Armenia is fully capable of boosting tourism,
said Philippe Meunier, international consulter of the USAID Competitive
Armenian Private Sector (USAID/CAPS).

He cited 26% rise in tourist visits to Armenia since 2006. He stressed
that the French market opens up new tourism opportunities for Armenia,
with 3.5% of French tourists visiting Armenia. Meunier believes the
country may boost tourism by enhancing the quality of services and
create a new image for Armenia.

He stressed the need for promoting online ticket sales by delivering
available information via the Internet and press.

Meunier also emphasized the role of a more flexible marketing policy
and discount system amid the global financial recession.

In his turn, Alan Saffery, senior competitiveness expert with CAPS,
said in his report each country has to work out its own methods to
weather the global financial storm.

He pointed out countries like Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam simplifying
visa procedures, with others offering mobile tourism packages.

Saffer believes Armenia can attract young and middle-aged tourists
with the help of its sights, historical monuments and talented jazz
musicians.

The third meeting on boosting tourism competition in Armenia amid
the global crisis took place in Yerevan this week on the initiative
of USAID/CAPS and RA Ministry of Economy.

The event aimed20at bolstering tourism competition in Armenia and
establishing international ties by delivering information about the
country’s tourism business and organizing meetings.