Protecting Paradise: Ecotourism
opportunities are plentiful in the Uists
People will pay for a quality experience but they will not visit a place that is unsafe, inaccessible or too highly priced for the quality of service offered.
When we consider the overall visitor experience at our key attractions in the Hebrides, there is reason for concern. The continual investment required to sustain and develop these attractions further is not forthcoming and as a result the visitor experience becomes less focused on quality and more on adaptability. How can we continue to promote tired interpretation and products to customers, many of whom are repeat visitors, without investment into the economy and the attractions? Too much of the weight of the industry falls on the same shoulders and volunteers and now is the time to generate enthusiasm and take steps to a sustainable future.
The tourism product is fragmented across the islands and there needs to be a more cohesive approach to sustainable tourism development. This will involve key players from the Council, HIE and other agencies engaging with the Outer Hebrides Tourism Industry Association, with service providers and with operators to further identify and assist with its development from a grass roots level. It is vital that we now take stock of our position and identify where we have been, where we are and where we hope to be in years to come. Yes, we have it in Area Tourism Plans but how can we transfer that to the industry and create jobs and a feel good factor?
