I am writing about the “prestigious” firm of McKinsey & Company hired by Bhutan to “advise” the country on its potential growth and/or development. I am not sure if the company’s task is related to “advising” the country in general or specifically in the tourism aspect of the country. In any case, knowing and loving [...]
The government’s decision to use Nu 26 million from the tourism development fund (TDF) as funding to market Bhutan as a tourism destination under the McKinsey plan has led to differences between the Association of Bhutanese Tour Operators (ABTO) and the Tourism Council of Bhutan (TCB) over the fund’s control and ownership.
The much awaited meeting between the Prime Minister and the various stake holders of the Bhutanese tourism industry was held on the 24th of February, 2010. Among other very importnt outcomes, one of the major decision was to NOT to adopt the much controversial McKinsey plans.
The government has already identified more than 100 acres of land across Bhutan for the creation of tourism infrastructure like quality hotels, spas, wellness centers. In total the government would acquire 500 acres with 180 acres in the centre, 120 acres in the south, 110 acres in the west and 60 acres in the east.
The Guides Association of Bhutan (GAB), which represents the country’s almost 1,300 guides voted against the policy to liberalize the existing US$ 200 tariff that Tourism Council of Bhutan proposed.
McDonald-ization of Tourism in Bhutan?