What We Do
The three MAR Network partners have carried out the Global Sustainable Tourism Council’s (GSTC) Sustainable Destination Assessment (SDA) and Action Plan.
Our work is based on the results of the SDAs carried out on 2018 and 2019.
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GUIDING PRINCIPLES
The use of proven international methodology for visitor use assessment
To provide Quality Visitor Experience to Guests by avoiding overcrowding and ensuring health and safety
To promote new product development and diversification, ensuring safety, security, and guest satisfaction
Ensure Conservation of Environment and Social-Cultural Fabric
Secure the Longevity of the Destination and Attractions
Promote a balanced tourism product between overnight and cruise visitors in MAR Destination
MOVING FORWARD
In order to address issues and improve upon cruise visitor experience, we are securing funds to carry out
the following actions:
Visitor management studies at different levels on topics such as sewage, potable water and solid waste.
These are crucial to attain real impacts on the destinations’ ability to transform into a sustainable tourism destination and achieve coral reef health in the region. These studies are a first step towards regional stewardship.
Support in the building of the Destination Management Organizations (DMOs) for each destination.
Local DMOs will define and implement a publicly available multi-year destination strategy suited to the destination’s scale and developed with public participation, based on GSTC assessments recommendations.
The strategy must provide destinations with a vision towards stewardship of their cultural, social, and environmental assets.
Create regional standardized training materials for the MAR that can support destinations in delivering a common educational message to local communities, tourism professionals, and visitors.
While some progress has been made on the marine recreational activities, work is needed to conserve the integrity of other on-land sensitive ecosystems that end up impacting our resources.
