Hawaii’s tourism industry is forecasted to see slump in tourist arrivals as traveling become expensive and some airlines have reduced their flights.
As per the latest forecast by the Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, the tourist arrivals are projected to slump 6.7% in 2008, as reported by Pacific Magazine.
The state officials have predicted a sharp decline in tourist arrivals to Hawaii, with 0.8% fall next year (2009). However, the tourist arrivals are expected to surge 1.4% and 1.7% in 2010 and 2011 respectively. In the first half of 2008, the number of tourists visiting Maui, the Hawaiian island, stood at 1.1 Million, down 8.8% against the same period previous year. Lanai, another island in Hawaii, experienced slump of 5.6% whereas Molokai saw a rise of 5.5% in arrivals over the first half of 2007.
The low forecast for tourist arrivals in Hawaii this year is primarily due to rising traveling cost. Rising fuel prices have pushed up the traveling cost in the country and increased airfares along with surcharges and baggage fees are making Hawaii an expensive tourist destination.
Moreover, it is believed that failure of two airlines and withdrawal of two cruise ships serving Hawaii are primarily responsible for slump in tourist arrivals this year. In addition, weak US economy along with decrease in the number of flights are also contributing to low tourist arrivals forecasted for 2008. Also, the country’s banking and mortgage industry are facing tough time, forcing mainlanders to suspend their vacation plans and stay at home.
However, the tourism industry is taking all possible measures to raise the number of visitors coming in the country. It is also putting more proposals before aviation industry to increase the frequency of flights in the country. It has also given a fresh look to its Website by posting new images to attract tourists.
According to a Research Analyst at RNCOS, “The expected fall in the number of tourist arrivals will affect the country’s economy as it generates a big chunk of foreign revenue. Moreover, with slowdown in the tourism industry, other related industries such as hotel and travel agencies will also face the declining phase.”
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