Old Damascus and neighboring markets are considered the meeting point between old and modern parts of Damascus. The touristic sector in Syria has been greatly influenced during the crisis, especially the hostelry domain, consequently the lodgers number decreased as a result of the tourists regress. what measures can be taken to compensate that shortage and go on working? How can we succeeded in preserving the prerequisite level to continue? Are there any promotion offers to attract lodgers, bearing in mind that Four Stars hotels have presented sundry offers to attract tourists?
At the beginning of the events impact was great and wide, yet the government tried to be positive. Therefore it worked on laying out a plan to attract tourists from inside Syria; meanwhile touristic and hostelry sectors were performing an promotion campaign to preserve Syria’s touristic presence abroad. Internally, we have fairly succeeded, there have been a set of offers such as cut rates on room rental, served meals, and long residencies; in addition to special deductions for foreign tourists, and some offers encouraging tourists to return. As a matter of fact governmental hotels have been trying to provide comfort and good service throughout all hotel sections.
Some think that the crisis has only influenced external tourism, on the other hand, some deem that the crisis has impacts on internal tourism , i.e. amongst local provinces. Under the crisis continuation and talk about stability reinstatement to some area, is it possible to restore internal tourism to its previous activities, particularly in the near future, bearing in mind that summer entertainment season is round the bend?
The crisis has influenced both internal and external tourism, however we are certain that it would be restored. Considering that more than two years and a half have passed since the breaking out of the crisis; yet the Syrian people majority never lacking insight, has realized the true image. Therefore, I foretell the internal tourism revival for summer is coming soon. More over traffic is better today than it has been previously, especially in the provinces, which witnessed some intensities. Nevertheless, thank God, today things are quite better. As God Willing will revive inside Syria, it will do on the foreign level.
Haifaa Mafalani