Significance of tourism industry in Yemen [Archives:2002/34/Culture]

YEMEN TIMES STAFF
It is a common held belief that tourism has become a universal trade business all over the world. It has so many multidimensional advantages.
On the human relations level, it enhances and strengthens relations between people as it makes them aquainted with different conventions, traditions, cultures, as well as arts.
It is also a way to start new relations based on love as well as peace for it creates a suitable atmosphere for making the long-waited dream of peace among nations.
Why do nations pay special attention to the tourism industry? Yemen has been endowed with all tourist potentials including antiques, fascinating beaches, green mountains, and spacious deserts.
Even though we feel proud of our tourist attractions; we are still using traditional methods in such fundamental aspects. We dont even think of proper ways to upgrade these factors to meet the requirements of the 21st century. There is clear negligence by the government in taking care of those tourist attractions.
For permanent success in this field, a transportation infrastructure should be established and tourist hotels and other facilities should be developed.
There are some other hindrances that impede the progress of the tourism industry in Yemen. Kidnapping incidents and tribal clashes have of course negatively affected the tourism industry in Yemen. In addition to this, some tourists in a way or the other are exploited by moneygrubbers.
We have to make every effort to put an end to such uncivilized behavior in front of other people. Unfortunately, no due attention has been paid by the concerned bodies. Historical sites have become difficult for antique lovers and tourists. This is because roads are in very deteriorating conditions.
Among the best tourist potentials in Yemen are; archaeological and historical sites, cave, castles, museums and traditional markets.
We should all work together to promote the tourism sector, which if developed could serve as an important income generating source for the whole country.

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