GTA has been restructured to involve more private sector stakeholders and has a new director, Brian Mullis, from the US.

Mullis has more than 25 years’ experience in sustainable development, conservation and tourism, and was the founder of Sustainable Travel International.

A new GTA mission statement includes a focus on optimising the positive socio-economic and conservation effects of tourism, empowering Guyana’s tourism industry, championing the value of tourism to the country, and raising the profile of GTA as a professional organisation.

“We are in the process of launching a new website, undertaking a digital marketing strategy and working with key influencers and private sector partners to raise awareness and attract adventurous travellers and trade interested in experiencing Guyana’s wealth of natural and cultural heritage,” said Mullis.

Market representatives for the UK, Germany and North America are to be announced shortly.
The GTA is also to join the Latin American Travel Association (Lata) in the UK, and has become a member of the Adventure Travel Trade Association.

Tony Thorne, managing director of leading Guyana operator and DMC Wilderness Explorers, said UK representation could be a game-changer for the destination.

“The difference will be huge,” he said. “We’ve been the de facto tourist board in the UK for many years but having someone in that consumer-facing role will really help to raise Guyana’s profile worldwide.”

The country is also set to welcome its first route from a major international carrier, with American Airlines to commence Miami-Georgetown flights from December 20.

For UK travellers, this means Guyana can now be reached on the same day (on the outward journey).

American’s route launch follows the discovery of huge oil fields off the coast of Guyana by US oil and gas company Exxon Mobil.

Thorne said American’s launch had also encouraged Westjet and JetBlue to look at the route.