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Ecotourism meet expected to draw 100 participants
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Posted on Feb 10 2000
Some 100 delegates from Micronesia are expected to attend the ecotourism symposium to be held on the island-municipality of Rota from Feb. 28-March 3.
Experts in the field of eco and heritage tourism have been invited to share their views on how a destination must develop this type of market which has steadily grown over the years.
Ecotourism has seen an increase in popularity of adventure tours where tourists would like to discover the off-the-beaten path, said Marianas Visitors Authority Deputy Managing Director Vicky Benavente.
MVA has been promoting Rota as the CNMI’s ecotourism destination but the island-municipality has yet to improve its airport to be able to entice bigger aircraft to carry out direct flights on the island.
Continental Micronesia used to provide Rota-Guam direct service but later on stopped, claiming the airport is not safe. Rota Mayor Benjamin Manglona said repair of the airport is underway and local officials have sought the help of the Federal Aviation Administration for funding to extend the runway by 1,800 ft.
“We assure you that we are working on it because we believe that the success of tourism in Rota depends on reliable transportation,” Mr. Manglona said.
He noted that the island has attracted a growing number of tourists who are looking for eco tourism destinations. In conserving the island, local officials and the residents have carried out cleanliness and beautification campaign.
Members of the tourism industry including tour operators are also expected to attend the five-day gathering of experts. While the CNMI wants to sell the unique attractions of Rota through sustainable development, it is also an opportunity for the island to show the people’s culture and heritage, according to Joseph P. Deleon
Guerrero, Historic Preservation officer.
Division of Fish and Wildlife Director Richard Seman said development of a marina which will have 16 berthing slips will be completed this year through a 100 percent federal funding.
The marina is expected to help develop recreational fishing in Rota which has enticed a growing number of tourists for many years.
