Gozo needs a revamp
One of the main challenges faced by tourism, Gozo's prime industry, is the highly seasonal element of the market. The tourism industry experiences heavy demand between mid-July to mid-September, with dwindling figures in the spring, autumn and winter...
One of the main challenges faced by tourism, Gozo's prime industry, is the highly seasonal element of the market. The tourism industry experiences heavy demand between mid-July to mid-September, with dwindling figures in the spring, autumn and winter months.
In Gozo, the bed stock reaches approximately 4,000, a figure which is equally shared between nine hotels and other self-catering establishments, such as apartments, farmhouses and houses of character. From the sparse occupancy figures that are collated, the annual occupancy rate in Gozitan hotels is just half the rate registered in Malta. For those involved in the tourism industry, this situation is not sustainable.
The private sector is trying to improve this situation with all possible means, but regrettably, this cannot be said with regard to the other competent authorities. The Gozitan tourism product is not being looked after. This unique destination, the jewel on the Maltese ring, is being left to deteriorate to a state which can be dangerous for the future of tourism.
Marketing and promotion for Gozo is next to zero. While the tourism establishments in Gozo are paying as much in contributions as their Maltese counterparts, nothing is being given in return. This situation is unacceptable to the Gozitan private sector. In fact, the general perception is that Gozo is being neglected in all aspects of the tourism trade.
The destination is crying for an upgrade and upkeep of the product. The whole island needs a revamp if we want to attract 'quality tourists'. Forget about the excuse of lack of funds and don't be stingy any more with Gozo! How long is it going to take to start delivering something concretely? Is tourism in Gozo only mentioned and used when Gozo Channel figures are published?
All parties concerned, the central and local government, the private sector and resident Gozitans have to take tourism more seriously. Responsibility falls squarely on all stakeholders, unless we we want to wake up one day and say that Gozo once had a tourism industry.