eTN, 28-11-2006
Plans to develop the most remote part of the Maldives into a new tourist zone have been unveiled to the tourism industry in London. The project will bring prosperity and new jobs to Addu Atoll, and particularly the island of Gan, in the southern-most part of the Maldives.
New career opportunities in the hotel and catering sector and demand for local expertise and opportunities to sample Maldivian culture will boost employment for the islanders and will contribute to the overall growth of the economy of the region, where there is an enduring longing and welcome for visitors especially from Great Britain.
Gan is a former British military base and the former Royal Air Force station is currently used as an airport for domestic flights from the capital Malé. Gan airport is being upgraded to international standards and could be ready to receive direct flights from London next year. The Maldives Tourism Development Board is in talks with charter flight operators in the UK and one well-known company has already been signed up.
