Cultural groups in remote communities play major role in boosting tourism – Ramson

Culture Youth and Sports Minister Charles Ramson Jr has encouraged residents of Orealla and Siparuta to place greater emphasis on culture, noting that groups dedicated to organising cultural activities can help promote local tourism.
Over the weekend, the Minister visited the remote communities of Orealla and Siparuta situated up the Corentyne River.
During his engagement with residents, he pointed out the importance and benefits of such communities being tourist destinations.
Because of the remoteness of such communities, Ramson Jr explained that economic and business activities are not as concentrated in coastal regions. Hence, tourism is a good option to boost their local economies.
Both Orealla and Siparuta have what tourists are looking for but the communities need to offer a full package and that is where its culture groups can play a major role, the Minister said.
“People from all around the world are valuing a lot more this way of life where they can enjoy things that are natural; people fly from all parts of the world just to experience that, but at the same time you have to present yourself that you are offering that. You also have to give them an experience while they are here… Because when they come here, they are not just coming for the forest and the grass and the animals; they want to come and experience what you have to offer – how you make them feel and what is unique about you.

So, having your own cultural group and us helping to support that is something that I want to discuss with you,” the culture, youth and sport Minister said.
According to Ramson Jr who was on his first visit to the sister communities since becoming Minister, has visited several other Amerindian communities where there are vibrant culture groups. As a result of that people go to those communities to spend time and money.
In this regard, the Minister said Orealla and Siparuta should similarly create a cultural group.
“Because when you welcome people into your village, and they come to spend their money on tourism kind of activities, they have to have a suitable place to stay that is designed specifically for that purpose which is a combination of natural but at the same time it is comfortable and secure and then at the same time too while they are here, that you offer something that is very unique to your village which is things to go with your food, your dance; your culture related things,” Ramson said. (G4)