Solomon Islands Celebrates World Tourism Day 2024!
THE tourism industry in Solomon Islands was proud to join the global community in celebrating World Tourism Day 2024 under the theme ‘Tourism and Peace.’
This year’s theme held profound significance for both the international tourism industry and the local context in Solomon Islands. The connection between tourism and peace is undeniable—without peace, there is no tourism.
Reflecting on the theme, the industry is reminded of the critical role peace plays in fostering a thriving tourism sector and the opportunities it brings to the country.
Internationally, tourism has long been a bridge that connects people, cultures, and nations. It promotes understanding, fosters goodwill, and builds the foundations for lasting peace.
In regions where peace is upheld, tourism flourishes, creating jobs, strengthening economies, and enhancing cultural exchange. Conversely, when peace is disrupted, tourism declines, and the social and economic benefits that come with it are lost.
Locally, the Solomon Islands has witnessed firsthand the effects of instability on tourism. The ethnic crisis that gripped our nation completely shut down our tourism industry, causing severe economic hardships and halting international arrivals.
More recently, ongoing riots and civil unrest have continued to affect the image of the Solomon Islands as a peaceful and welcoming destination. No tourist wants to travel to a war-torn or unsafe destination. Peace and safety are non-negotiable for the growth of tourism, and our future depends on maintaining stability.
The theme ‘Tourism and Peace’ serves as a powerful reminder of the need to nurture peace in order for tourism to thrive. It calls on the government, communities, and stakeholders—to ensure a peaceful environment where tourism can grow, benefiting not just the economy but the nation as a whole.
The International Visitor Survey shows that the people of Solomon Islands, are known for their friendliness and warm hospitality.
The country is encouraged to build on this strength, presenting a positive and peaceful image of the country. By doing so, Solomon Islands can restore and proudly live up to its ‘Hapi Isles’ brand once again.
To mark this significant occasion, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, in collaboration with Tourism Solomon’s, tour operators, accommodation providers, the Solomon Islands National University School of Tourism and Hospitality, and Solomon Airlines, organized a symbolic 3.8 kilometer Peace Walk from the Bloody Ridge National Peace Park to the Pagoda.
The choice of starting the walk at Bloody Ridge was particularly meaningful. Bloody Ridge is a place of deep historical significance, symbolizing peace and reconciliation.
It was there that the tides of World War II in the Pacific turned, and global peace was ultimately restored between former enemies. Beginning the Peace Walk at this historic site served as a reminder that peace is hard-earned, and its preservation is essential for the prosperity of the tourism sector and the future of the country.
As the industry commemorated World Tourism Day 2024, it is called on to reflect on the importance of peace in tourism and commit to creating and maintaining a peaceful Solomon Islands.
Together, a stable and secure environment can be created, where visitors can feel welcomed, the tourism industry flourishes, and the people prosper.
Source: MCT Press Release
