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Maldives Tourist Industry
The Maldives tourist industry is the biggest income earner for the country. Its tourism industry accounts for 20% of the economy and more than 60% of foreign exchange earnings, making Maldives a true tourist-oriented country. The first tourist resorts opened in 1972 in Bandos Island and Kurumba Village. The industry then picked steam in the 1980's and the 1990's helping Maldives increase per capita income by 400% in a 20 year span. Tourism also accounts for 90% of Maldives' tax revenues and import duties.
The tourism sector enjoyed unprecedented growth because of the infrastructure development geared on tourism. The industry created direct employment as well as trickle down income for its local population. In addition, establishments that support the tourism industry have flourished such that the whole economy depends on foreign tourists coming to the islands. In 2006, Maldives saw 467,154 tourists.
The growth of luxury Maldives resorts will further enhance the tourist industry. The government opened all the atolls for public bidding in 2004, signaling a massive tourism development project. The number of excellent luxury Maldives resorts is pushing prices up. Efforts are underway to conserve the natural uniqueness of the islands in the middle of large scale developments.
Maldives will continue to be a player in the global tourism marketplace especially in this region. Its main competitors in the Indian Ocean are Mauritius and Madagascar. Maldives also has to face similar competition from South East Asia and Oceania. However, the country is confident that they can offer a different brand that is unique to other tourist destinations.
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| Maldives Luxury Resorts |
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| Indian Ocean Holidays
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The Indian Ocean and the islands it encompasses have long
been sought by holiday makers wanting privacy and seclusion,
boasting a variety of luxury hotels. If this is what kind
of luxury holiday break you are looking for, the Indian
Ocean will certainly not disappoint. - [Full
Article]
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