Tourism by choice? This is what Bhutan, the South Asian kingdom that is already very picky about welcoming travelers (it only opened its borders to foreign tourists in 1974), intends to develop. In a press release issued on June 29, the government announced the reopening of the country without restrictions (the end of the fifteen-day quarantine) on September 23, 2022. However, all travelers must undergo a “test and go” test. Obligation to take a PCR test upon arrival and self-isolate in their hotel while waiting for the result.
Another major change was the elimination of the daily package (called the minimum daily package rate), which required travelers to spend a minimum of $250 per day ($200 off-season), a rate that included accommodation, meals and known taxes (Sustainable Development). fee), previously set at $65.
This elimination will give tourists more flexibility in choosing their accommodation, their guides and food options (no need to go through a government-certified tour operator to arrange their stay). The only counterbalance is that the tax does not go away. He even sees his money triple. Now it will be necessary to pay 200 dollars (about 190 euros) a day to the government to trespass on Bhutanese soil.
Promote “high value” tourism
According to a government press release published in June, this tax will be used “finance and build a more sustainable tourism sector“. An economic choice undertaken by Bhutan, which summed up this strategy in the following formula:High cost, low volume“. Obviously, respectful tourism rather than mass tourism. Tourism is a strategic value and a national valueBhutan Tourism Board Executive Director Dorjee Dhradhul said in a statement. “Ensuring its ecological sustainability is vital to ensure the safety of future generationsHe added: The holiday is meant for tourists who seek to explore the Himalayas.
Source: Le Figaro
