Estuardo Riley. Guatemala´s Tourism Advisor
Q- Mr. Riley, in what way could CATA influence Guatemala’s tourism development in Europe?
A- I’d say that’s a major step forward the Central American region is taking because CATA is destined to become the body or office that will definitely give us a niche in the European market as a multi-destination and, I must also say, as a region that has what it takes for international tourism.
Q- How will this merger with CATA and the budget required to keep the office running play out?
A- In the past, each Central American government had a budget of its own to promote itself in Europe. I believe the dynamics resulting from our budgets and strengths coming together will play a bigger and more active role when it comes to crafting a common strategy as a region and to giving all participating countries in the CATA initiative a much tighter grip of the market.
Q- Can you refer to actions being taken in Guatemala to beef up security?
A- I’d say that one of the main goals for the new Guatemalan administration is to make tourism a state top priority. It’s indeed a state policy right now and the Ministry of Home Affairs is taking all necessary actions to guarantee tourists a pleasant stay in Guatemala.
Q- How has the new Guatemalan government devised tourism development in the country and training of its employees?
A- The current Guatemalan administration has declared tourism development a state policy. On the other hand, the body that deals directly with this issue has gone stronger with the addition of officials from the private sector. Take, for instance, the Marketing Department that plays a hands-on and far-reaching role in the sale of the destination overseas. Well, this department has now pieced together a multidisciplinary team of experts with plenty of experience in the realm of tourism. I think this is the way in which INGUAT is going to strengthen itself, not only as an institution, but also as a marketing organization. This team is made up of people coming from the private sector who are eager to get down on their new job and serve Guatemala in so important a field as tourism.
Q- How do you assess the merger between Air Madrid and tour operator Aladatour?
A- I’d say all these combinations of effort play a major role in the development of our destinations. Something is very clear; when it comes to tourism development, you need to have plane seats. The appearance of new airlines and new air routes is extremely important to achieve any kind of sustainable development in the country.
Q- What about projected flights to your country? What can you say about that?
A- As we speak, we’re working with all major airlines from the U.S. and Central America. However, INGUAT’s new front office is determined to take bolder steps and invite more air carriers to operate in Guatemala. Something else we’re trying to do is hammer out a deal with those airlines already operating in the country to build a new airport like PETEL in the Mayan region. We’re talking about an airport that can conduct round-the-clock operations and can provide all conditions required for international flights.
Q- Is there any suggestion you’d like to give us?
A- You, the press, play a major role in the development of any travel destination, so I appreciate very much your presence here. Guatemala is ready to welcome you with open arms. We’re very happy of being here in this Convention. Cuba is a paradise-like destination that has developed greatly in the international markets. In a way, there’s a lot we can learn from what this country has attained and take those experiences back to Guatemala.
