Internship Repor

Internship Report | Visa Assistance Officer | Honorary Consulate of Cyprus, Dhaka

Mijanur Rahaman Siddiki (razin) | Dept. of Tourism & Hospitality Management | University of Dhaka

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1.1 Origin of the Report

This report is an outcome of the Internship Program prepared as the partial requirement of

MBA program of Department of Tourism and Hospitality Management (THM), University of

Dhaka. This report was assigned by the academic supervisor PROFESSOR DR. MUBINA

KHONDKAR, Chairperson, Dept. of THM, University of Dhaka and was approved by the

organizational supervisor MR. MARIOS SAVVIDES, Education Officer, Ministry of

Education & Culture, Republic of Cyprus. Though, I have been working as a Visa Assistance

Officer in the Honorary Consulate of the Republic of Cyprus in Bangladesh since January,

2009, I was assigned to prepare this internship report by my academic supervisor. During this

period I have been dealing with visa process and administrative works.

1.2 Internship / Work Area

Position: Visa Assistance Officer

Organization: Honorary Consulate of the Republic of Cyprus

Address: ABC House (9th floor), 8, Kemal Ataturk avenue,

Banani, Dhaka - 1213.

Republic of Cyprus

1.3 Topic of this Report

A report must be based on a specific topic, so it is necessary to select a topic. A well-defined

topic reflects what is going to be discussed throughout the report. I had to be very conscious

about not to select any topic, where I need to disclose any confidential information as I am

working in a sensitive organization. I discussed with my supervisors, both the academic and the

organizational and finally came out this topic:

“A Tourism Developed Country that Bangladesh Can Follow:

A Case Study on Cyprus Tourism”.

1.4 Objectives of the Report

Study or working on any subject must have objective. It may be only one objective or a

combination of some objectives. My study also has objectives. Before submitting the report I

need to discuss briefly my Broad Objective and related Supplementary Objectives.



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Broad Objective:

The research was conducted for a two-fold purpose. First, to have a practical knowledge of the

professional life and to relate the two years of theoretical learning about business. More

importantly, it was required for the partial fulfillment of the MBA program. Secondly, to

analyze and evaluate the present scenario of tourism demand and to provide some

recommendations to improve the scenario for Cyprus and more importantly, formulate some

strategies of tourism sector in Bangladesh to raise Gross Domestic Product.

Supplementary Objectives:

The report is expected to attain the following supplementary objectives:

To analyze the strategies and policies taken by the Cypriot Govt. to attract more tourists.

To recognize the impact of activities in embassies and consulates to help generate more

tourism demand.

To identify the market potentiality of tourism in Bangladesh.

To find out whether tourism sector can contribute to raise growth rate of Gross

Domestic Product.

To provide some policy implications to raise Gross Domestic Product through arranging

strategic management of tourism sector of Bangladesh.

To perform as secondary source of information for the student of Tourism and

Hospitality Management.

1.5 Methodology of the Study

Methodology may refer to nothing more than a simple set of methods or procedures, or it may

refer to the rationale and the philosophical assumptions that underlie a particular study relative

to the scientific method. Combinations of such methods are also followed in my study. I have

used both the qualitative and quantitative methods to get primary data.

1.5.1 Sources of Data

The study was conducted on the basis of both the primary and secondary sources of

information. The details of these sources are highlighted below:

1.5.1.1 Primary Sources

Major sources of primary information were found through casual discussions with my

organizational supervisor MR. MARIOS SAVVIDES.



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Interview Method: I have discussed with other Cypriot Officers from Ministry Education

& Culture, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and from department of Immigration to collect both

primary and secondary data and related documents about Cyprus. I have visited some

tourism organizations in Bangladesh to take interview to get primary and secondary data

related to the topic. I have also discussed with some of my course instructors in MBA.

Observation Method: The things I observed are from my practical experience, most of

which are strictly confidential. I was forbidden to reveal any confidential information.

However, I have visited some popular tourist destinations In Bangladesh (Cox‘s Baxzar,

Saint Martin Island, Bandorban, Rangamati, Shundarban, Sylhet), in India (Darjeeling,

Mirikh, Calcutta etc.), in Thailand (Bangkok, Pattaya).

1.5.1.2 Secondary Sources

Sources of secondary data are widely used in this report. These can be defined as:

Internal Sources:

Ambassadorial updated archives

Brochures and other related paper from the govt. of Cyprus provided through

embassy.

Data and information from the web-site of High Commission of Cyprus in New

Delhi

External Sources:

Newspapers and Periodicals published both in Cyprus and Bangladesh

Different books, articles, journals etc. published by tourism related organizations

both in Cyprus and Bangladesh.

Updated Information from Websites and other electronic media

1.6 Scope of the Study

Although, the duration of an internship program is for 3 months, I have been working for

Honorary Consulate of Cyprus in Dhaka since January 2009. In these one and about half year

journey, I have been working as a Visa Assistance Officer, most of which about visa and some

administrative works. But the observations and report study was focused mainly on tourism by

securing confidentiality of my work. The scopes of the study as per proposal are as follows:

Organizational information of the embassy except the confidential information

Operations and research papers of tourism organizations

Strategies, objectives, and policies, for tourism taken by both Bangladesh and Cyprus

govt.

Financial performance of the tourism sector of both the two countries.

Potential tourist destinations and tourism product of both the two countries.



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1.7 Rationale of the Study

The report will definitely increase knowledge of the students of Tourism and Hospitality

Management to know about tourism as well as the corporate world and it will teach them to

apply theoretical knowledge in the practical life. This report will also help Bangladesh govt. to

take necessary steps by studying the case of a tourism developed country like Cyprus. Finally,

Cyprus govt. can evaluate the performance of their embassies and consulates, and try to

improve their effectiveness and efficiencies as these organizations are the representatives and

make first impressions.

1.8 Limitations of the Study

When I developed this report, then I had to face some problems, which disrupted the

preparation of this report. There were several constrains while preparing this report. During

preparation of my internship report I faced a number of problems, which may be termed as the

limitations of the study. These are as follows:

The main and topmost limitation is the nature of my work, dealing with sensitive and

confidential issues.

I was strictly ordered not to disclose any information regarding my work. Disclosing

such information will have negative effect on my job.

I had to discuss with my organizational supervisor about up-to-date information I

provided in this report to check the information is secured enough, which was time-

killing for me.

Sufficient records, publications were not available about Cyprus. The constraints

narrowed the scope of real analysis.

There is no website of the consulate office in Dhaka and the information provided on the

website of New Delhi High Commission was not sufficient.

Sufficient information was not attainable because officers were very busy with their day-

to-day work; they could hardly provide enough time.

I could not spend sufficient time required to make an in-depth study on such an

important subject because of my office time constraint.

It is too much difficult to comment and suggest based on limited information supplied

by the organization.

Topic related necessary data and information were not easily available. Besides, no

study in any topic was conducted before in the embassy.

Last but not the least, lack of time has also limited the scope for the research work.



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2.1 Introduction

Tourism is travel for recreational, leisure or business purposes. The World Tourism

Organization defines tourists as people who "travel to and stay in places outside their usual

environment for more than twenty-four (24) hours and not more than one consecutive year for

leisure, business and other purposes not related to the exercise of an activity remunerated from

within the place visited."

Tourism has become a popular global leisure activity. In 2008, there were over 922 million

international tourist arrivals, with a growth of 1.9% as compared to 2007. International tourism

receipts grew to US$944 billion (euro 642 billion) in 2008, corresponding to an increase in real

terms of 1.8%.

Tourism is vital for many countries, such as Egypt, Greece, Lebanon, Spain and Thailand, and

many island nations, such as The Bahamas, Fiji, Maldives, Philippines and the Seychelles, due

to the large intake of money for businesses with their goods and services and the opportunity

for employment in the service industries associated with tourism. These service industries

include transportation services, such as airlines, cruise ships and taxicabs, hospitality services,

such as accommodations, including hotels and resorts, and entertainment venues, such as

amusement parks, casinos, shopping malls, music venues and theatres.

2.2 Types of Tourism

1. International tourism

a) Inbound tourism: Visits to a country by nonresidents

b) Outbound tourism: Visits by residents of a country to another country

2. Domestic tourism: Visits by residents of a country to their own country

3. Internal tourism: The combination of Domestic and Inbound tourism

4. National tourism: The combination of Domestic and Outbound tourism

2.3 History

Wealthy people have always travelled to distant parts of the world, to see great buildings,

works of art, learn new languages, experience new cultures and to taste different cuisines. Long

ago, at the time of the Roman Republic, places such as Baiae were popular coastal resorts for the

rich. The word tourism was used by 1811 and tourist by 1840. In 1936, the League of Nations

defined foreign tourist as "someone traveling abroad for at least twenty-four hours". Its

successor, the United Nations, amended this definition in 1945, by including a maximum stay of

six months.



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2.4 Leisure travel

Leisure travel was associated with the Industrial Revolution in the United Kingdom – the first

European country to promote leisure time to the increasing industrial population. Initially, this

applied to the owners of the machinery of production, the economic oligarchy, the factory

owners and the traders. These comprised the new middle class. Cox & Kings was the first

official travel company to be formed in 1758.

2.5 Mass tourism

Mass tourism could only have developed with the improvements in technology, allowing the

transport of large numbers of people in a short space of time to places of leisure interest, so that

greater numbers of people could begin to enjoy the benefits of leisure time.

2.6 Sustainable tourism

Sustainable tourism is an industry committed to making a low impact on the environment and

local culture, while helping to generate future employment for local people. The aim of

sustainable tourism is to ensure that development brings a positive experience for the local

people, tourism companies and the tourists themselves. But sustainable tourism is not the same

as ecotourism.

Sustainable tourism development is a process which allows development to take place without

depleting the resources. This is generally achieved by managing the resources in such way that

they are able to renew themselves to support future as well as current generations.

2.6.1 Objectives of Sustainable tourism

The aim is to balance our economic, environmental, and social needs, allowing prosperity for

current and future generations. It conserves and enhances our resource base by changing or

adapting newer technologies. It has four objectives:

1. Social progress and equality

2. Environmental protection

3. Conservation of natural resources, and

4. Stable economic growth

2.6.2 Characteristics of Sustainable tourism

Minimize negative economic, environmental, and social impacts

Generates employment and economic benefits for local people

Involves local people in decision making that affect their lives



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Conserves natural and cultural heritage as a subject of world heritage

Provides more enjoyable experiences for tourists thru greater understanding of local

culture and environment

Is culturally sensitive and creates respect among tourists and hosts.

2.6.3 UNWTO Principles of Sustainable tourism

Scale, pace, and character of tourism development activities must be carefully controlled

to safeguard environmental, historical, and cultural assets

Sourcing of local goods and services and generating local employment

Spreading the benefits of tourism more wide geographically, socially, and economically.

Minimize adverse impacts of tourism through effective management and promotion of

environmentally sound practices. (Tajmahal environment, Caspian sea, Dead sea, Cox‘s

Bazaar)

Promotes intrinsic value of environment so that long term survival of environment is not

at risk, the host community is happy and cooperative, and ensures enjoyment for

futurity.

2.6.4 Impacts of Sustainable tourism

a) It is informative: about culture, politics, economy, and environment (Webpage,

Emerging Tiger, Incredible India, etc.)

b) It benefits Residents: employment, infrastructure development, training of manpower,

small and capital business grow.

c) It Conserves Resources: Conservation of manmade building and edifices, natural

beauty, scope for renewable energy, minimize pollution, etc.

d) It does not abuse its products: it applies limits and management techniques to prevent

unplanned development of tourist destinations.

e) It strives for quality, not quantity: Not the volume of visitors but by length of stay,

money spent, and quality of good experiences. Example; Cyprus, Bhutan, etc.

f) It means great trips: satisfied, excited visitors, gaining new knowledge and send friends

and family to experience the same hospitality. (Negative impacts – Bali Bombing,

Mumbai Taj Hotel, Massacre in Cairo, etc.)

2.7 Ecotourism Ecotourism, also known as ecological tourism, is responsible travel to fragile, pristine, and

usually protected areas that strives to be low impact and (often) small scale. It helps educate the

traveler; provides funds for conservation; directly benefits the economic development and

political empowerment of local communities; and fosters respect for different cultures and for

human rights.



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2.8 Porter Five Forces Analysis

Porter's five forces is a framework for the industry analysis and business strategy development

developed by Michael E. Porter of Harvard Business School in 1979. It draws upon Industrial

Organization (IO) economics to derive five forces that determine the competitive intensity and

therefore attractiveness of a market. Attractiveness in this context refers to the overall industry

profitability. An "unattractive" industry is one in which the combination of these five forces acts

to drive down overall profitability. A very unattractive industry would be one approaching

"pure competition", in which available profits for all firms are driven down to zero.

The five Forces:

1. The intensity of competitive rivalry

2. The threat of the entry of new competitors

3. The threat of substitute products or services

4. The bargaining power of customers (buyers)

5. The bargaining power of suppliers

2.9 Gross Domestic Product (GDP)

The gross domestic product (GDP) or gross domestic income (GDI) is a measure of a country's

overall economic output. It is the market value of all final goods and services made within the

borders of a country in a year.



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2.10 Archives

Ansari, Akter, Huq (2006) said that tourism activities in the island (St. Martin‘s Island)

have both positive and negative impacts on the natural as well as social environment of the

island.

Deegan and Moloney (2007) observed for Ireland west that strong correlation of the

tourist succor to economic growth and employment. In the context of overall macroeconomic

activity there is good reason to believe that tourism can be a significant contributor to economic

development in the years ahead if an appropriate emphasis and strategy is developed.

Lee (2007) mentioned that medical tourism is used to refer to travel activity that involves

a medical procedure or activities that promote the wellbeing of the tourist. For example, the

term 'healthcare' tourism has been used to cover travel and tourism that are related to medical

procedures, health and wellbeing purposes.

Rotherham(2007) argued that religious tourism and the visiting of sacred sites offer

experiences to meet both demands. They can cater for those demanding spiritual retreats or

provide –a priest to accompany a group of pilgrim. They commented that religious tourism-

including pilgrimage-is embedded within a complex of heritage tourism and mass tourism

activities.

Ali and Mohsin (2008) observed that for Bangladesh- spots and cost of services have

positive impact on the tourism sector. Authors suggested that tourism should be acted as an

important ingredient of economic development of the country for which synergy may be

applied between tourism marketing plan and its implementation process. Integrated marketing

communications channel should be used to develop tourism sector of the country

Yilmaz (2008) commented that one of the largest and fastest growing sectors of the

global economy, tourism consists of many small and medium size enterprises which try to be

successful in an extremely competitive and rapidly changing business environment. To create

competitive advantage in this environment, a small tourism enterprise has to choose a powerful

strategy.

Baisakalova (2009) argued that the tourism development is a win-win strategy as it leads

to creating jobs, developing infrastructure, and improving sustainability of the country.

Improving the business environment, eliminating barriers such as visa obtaining procedures,

providing incentives for innovations and knowledge development can result in growth of the

inbound and domestic tourism.

The New Nation (2009) reported that tourists‘ pressure may create problem of

biodiversity on St Martin.



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3.1 Key Info

Government: Presidential system

President: Demetris Christofias

Independence Day: 1st October

The flag:

Capital: Nicosia

Population: 850.300 (Dec. 2005)

Area: 9.251 sq. km

Official Languages: Greek and Turkish

Time Zone: GMT + 2

Currency: Euro (e)

International Dialing Code: 00357

Member of EU: 1st May, 2004

3.2 Location and Area

Cyprus is the third largest island in the Mediterranean (after Sicily and Sardinia) with an area of

9.251 sq kms, extending 240 kms from east to west and 100 kms from north to south. It is

strategically situated in the far eastern corner of the Mediterranean, at the crossroads of Europe,

Africa and Asia, and in close proximity to the busy trade routes linking Europe with the Middle

East, Russia, Central Asia and the Far East.

3.3 Climate

Mediterranean, with mild, wet winters (mean daily minimum 5°C, 41°F), and hot, dry summers

(mean daily maximum 36°C, 97°F).

3.4 Flora and Fauna

Seventeen percent of the island is woodland. The natural vegetation includes forests of

evergreen and deciduous trees, shrubs and flowers. The flora comprises about 1.800 species,

sub-species and varieties. About 140 or 7% of these are endemic to Cyprus.

There are also 365 species of birds but only 115 breed on the island. Two species and five sub-

species have been classed as indigenous to the area.

Among the animals the moufflon is the most noteworthy. It belongs to the sheep family and is

unique in the world.



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3.5 Economy

The free market economy in the government-controlled area has made remarkable recovery

since 1974 attributed to, among other factors: the adoption of a market-oriented economic

system, sound macroeconomic policies, a dynamic and flexible entrepreneurial community and

a highly educated labor force. The economy turned from agriculture to services and light

manufacturing. Today, Cyprus is a major tourist destination and a modern economy offering

dynamic services with an advanced infrastructure. The per capita income in PPS (Performance

Presentation Standards) reached 81,6% of EU 25 member–states average in 2004. Additionally,

Cyprus was ranked 29th in the United Nations 2003 Index of Human Development. On 29 April

2005 the Cyprus pound joined the EU Exchange Rate Mechanism II (ERM II) and expects to join

the euro-zone in January 2008.

3.6 Culture Step back in time with a visit to Choirokoitia, one of the best preserved sites of a prehistoric

settlement found in the Eastern Mediterranean, with its reconstructed round dwellings giving a

vivid representation of what life was like at the dawn of civilization.

Admire the exquisite floor mosaics of the Roman villas depicting scenes from mythology,

arguably the best in the eastern Mediterranean and the impressive underground Tombs of the

Kings nearby, carved out of solid rock and decorated with Doric pillars. Or enjoy an ancient

Greek play performed in a Roman theatre with the most spectacular view on a cliff overlooking

the sea.

3.7 Food and Drink

With emphasis on fresh local ingredients, a pungent mix of herbs and spices and a light

spattering of olive oil, Cypriot food is essentially Mediterranean, similar to that of Greece and

with a hint of the Middle East and Asia Minor.

Both poets and travelers past have praised the flavors of the island. In present times doctors and

health specialists have added their voices in extolling the virtues of the Mediterranean diet. The

grains and pulses, sun-ripened fresh fruit and vegetables, high-protein fish, lean meat and

poultry, olive oil and wine are both a healthy option as well as an irresistible temptation.

3.8 Coasts and Beaches

With a wealth of beaches to choose from, tourists are bound to find one that suits theirr taste.

From the quiet backwaters of the western peninsula, to the lively resorts in the east, the island

has something for everyone.



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Phinikoudes Beach - Blue Flag

Bordering Larnaka‘s (Larnaca) central coastal

promenade, Phinikoudes Beach is one of the most

famous in Cyprus. ―Phinikoudes‖ means small palm

trees (now grown into very big palm trees) that were

planted in 1922. The beach has fine grey sand and is

some 500 metres long. The area is popular for its cafes,

bars, restaurants and hotels. There are also a large

number of mini markets close to the beach.

Kapparis Beach

Located at the end of a one - kilometres track in the

Kapparis area outside Paralimni, this is a relatively

secluded beach with golden sand and shallow clear

waters. The furthest of the beaches in the free Famagusta

area, it has basic facilities and is popular with locals.

Agia Thekla Beach - Blue Flag

Located three kilometers west of the centre of Agia Napa,

Agia Thekla is a small beach named after a tiny old church

situated nearby. The beach is 300 meters long and 25 meters

wide and covered with fine golden sand. Seas are calm.

Lifeguards are on duty with lifesaving equipment from

10:00 to 18:00 during the bathing season..

Pachyammos Beach - Blue Flag

Pachyammos Bay has a narrow sandy beach with a very

few rocks. It is situated in the Pafos (Paphos) tourist

area, in front of the hotels by Poseidonos Avenue. Well

signposted, the beach is accessible by bus, car, motorbike

and bicycle. From June 1st to October 15th, water sports,

sun beds and umbrellas are on hire on site.



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4.1 The High Commission of Cyprus, New Delhi

4.1.1 The High Commission

The High Commissioner‘s accreditation extends also to ten other countries of South and South-

eastern Asia, namely Bangladesh, Brunei Darussalam, Malaysia, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal,

Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Vietnam.

The High Commission‘s main mission is to promote and further enhance the political,

economic, cultural and trade relations, not only between Cyprus and India, where strong and

traditional bilateral relations have existed for decades, due to the strong bonds of friendship,

but also between Cyprus and all the aforementioned countries of parallel accreditation, and,

moreover, to inform the concerned Authorities of the said countries about the situation in

Cyprus and the Cyprus problem.

One of the main goals and tasks of the High Commission is to provide general information on

issues concerning Cyprus and offer consular services to Cypriot citizens (visiting India and the

aforementioned countries of accreditation or living in these countries), but also to promote the

cultural heritage of the Republic. Moreover, the High Commission‘s Consular Section as well as

the Honorary Consuls General and Honorary Consuls provide foreigners, wishing to visit or to

establish trade and economic relations with Cyprus, with all necessary information.

4.1.2 The High Commissioner

Name: ANDREAS ZENONOS

Military Service: 1975-1977

Education:

1975 Graduated from the Lanition Gymnasium

(Limassol) of Cyprus

University of Aix-En Provence: DEUG of

Sociology (France)

Licence of Sociology, Maitrise of Sociology

D.E.A. in History (Specialization: Sociology and History of Development)



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4.1.3 Political Section

The political section of the High Commission deals with the enhancement of the political

cooperation between Cyprus and India as well as between Cyprus and the countries of the High

Commission‘s parallel accreditation (Bangladesh, Brunei Darussalam, Malaysia, Maldives,

Myanmar, Nepal, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Vietnam) on issues of bilateral and

multilateral interest.

The political section communicates to the Government of the Republic of Cyprus the positions

of the Government of India and of the Governments‘ of the aforementioned ten countries of

accreditation on various regional and international issues, as well as on important political,

economic and cultural developments.

Moreover, the political section works with politicians, journalists, officials, public figures and

academics in a whole range of fields, as well as with the diplomatic missions of the other EU

countries, the Delegation of the European Commission and the other diplomatic & consular

missions in India.

4.2 The Honorary Consulate of Cyprus in Dhaka

ABC House (9th Floor),

8, Kemal Ataturk Avenue, Banani, C/A,

Dhaka 1213

4.3 The Honorary Consul of Cyprus, Dhaka

Mr. Shahab Sattar

Honorary Consul of the Republic of Cyprus in

Bangladesh, and

The Managing Director of GMG Group



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4.4 My Activities

I have been working in the Cyprus Consulate of Dhaka since January 2009 as a Visa Assistance

Officer.

My main duty is to translate languages from English to Bengali and Bengali to English during

interviews conducted by Cypriot Officers for the approval of student visas to students, from

Bangladesh, wishing to study in Cyprus.

I am also responsible for administrative duties resulted before, during and after these

interviews. These duties included computer data entry, administrative work with documents

related to student visas as well as other visas including tourist visa, work permit visa,

permanent residence visa, transit visa, acquisition of citizenships, etc. and the production of

statistical results concerning the interviews.

I have been working under and paid by Cypriot govt. My direct supervisor is Mr. Marios

Savvides, Education Officer, Ministry of Education and Culture, Republic of Cyprus. There are

other Cypriot Officers I work with/under as an assistant for the smooth operation of visa

process and the consulate office. The officers are Mr. Minas Petrou, Mr. Michael

Trimikliniotis, Mr. Polydorou Polydoros, and so many. Most of my activities are confidential

enough for disclosing in any form of information outside the scope of my job.

From left: Marios Savvides, Me, Michael

Trimikliniotis, Minas Petrou

I am interpreting and helping Mr. Minas Petrou

during an interview process.



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4.5 Entry Requirements of Cyprus

4.5.1 General conditions of entry and visa information

Types of Visas:

Short-stay or travel visas: multiple-entry visas

This visa entitles aliens who seek to enter the territory of Cyprus, for reasons other than

immigration, to pay a continuous visit or several visits, the duration of which does not exceed

three months in any half-year from the date of first entry. As a general rule, this visa may be

issued for one or several entries. In the case of aliens who need to travel frequently to Cyprus,

for example on business, short-stay visas may be issued for several visits, provided that the total

length of these visits does not exceed three months in any half-year. This multiple entry visa

may be valid for one year, and in exceptional cases, for more than a year but for no more than

five years for certain categories of persons.

Airport Transit Visa (ATV) If tourists have to pass through the international transit area of Cypriot airports without

actually entering the national territory of Cyprus during a stop-over or transfer between two

stages of an international flight, tourists might need an Airport Transit Visa. The requirement to

have this type of visa is an exception to the general rule to transit without a visa through

Cyprus.

Transit visas

If tourists are travelling from one country to another country and tourists have to pass through

the territory of the Republic of Cyprus, to do so tourists might need a Transit Visa. This visa

may be issued for one transit, or exceptionally for several transits. The duration of each transit

case should not exceed five days. The transit visa is issued provided that the entry of the

traveler into the territory of the destination country is guaranteed and that the route taken

normally requires transit through Cyprus.

4.5.2 Immigration for Employment Purposes

Conditions of entry and stay of foreign workers

Applications for the issue of entry and work permits in general categories of employment are

submitted to the Civil Registry and Migration Department by the intended employer, through

the respective District Aliens and Immigration Branch of the Police, on condition that the

foreigners are abroad. The applications should be accompanied by a work contract stamped by

the Department of Labor of the Ministry of Labor and Social Insurance.



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4.5.3 Immigration for Study Purposes

Procedure for issuing the student visa

The entry, residence or practical training of foreign students comes under the jurisdiction of the

Civil Registry and Migration Department and every student should possess a relevant residence

permit from this Department.

The above permit is issued for a specific Educational Institute the foreign student will attend

and any change of the Educational Institute means that a new residence permit should be

secured.

Visas issued by the Embassy / High Commission / Consulate of the Republic of Cyprus

Nationals of countries where an Embassy / High Commission / Consulate of the Republic of

Cyprus is available in residency should submit to the Admission Office of the chosen

educational institution the required documents in order to obtain, on their behalf, a preliminary

approval for them to be interviewed at the Embassy/ High Commission/ Consulate of the

Republic of Cyprus, in their home country.

Student Visas issued by the Migration Department in Cyprus

Nationals of countries where an Embassy / High Commission / Consulate of the Republic of

Cyprus is not available in residency should submit to the chosen educational institution the

required documents in order to apply, on their behalf, to the Migration Department, for a

student visa.

4.5.4 Residence

Cyprus Permanent Immigration Permit

Foreign citizens may make an application to obtain an Immigration Permit on the basis of one

of the Categories referred to in Regulation 5 of the Aliens and Immigration Regulations of 1972.

An immigration permit will not be granted to anybody unless the Immigration Control Board

recommends to the Minister of Interior that such person belongs to one of the following

Categories:

I. Category A: Persons who intend to work as self employed in agriculture, cattle

breeding, bird breeding or fishing in the Republic of Cyprus, provided that they have in

their possession adequate land or a permit to acquire same, they have fully and freely at

their disposal capital of CY£250,000 (see exchange rate to EUR in basic info section 1)

and such an employment should not negatively affect the general economy of the

Republic of Cyprus.



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II. Category B: Persons who intend to work as self employed in mining enterprises in the

Republic of Cyprus, provided that they have in their possession an appropriate permit,

they have fully and freely at their disposal capital of CY£200,000 and such an

employment should not negatively affect the general economy of the Republic of

Cyprus.

III. Category C: Persons who intend to work as self employed in a trade or profession in the

Republic of Cyprus, provided that they have in their possession an appropriate permit,

they have fully and freely at their disposal capital of CY£150,000 and such an

employment should not affect negatively the general economy of the Republic of

Cyprus.

IV. Category D: Persons who intend to work as self employed in a profession or science in

the Republic of Cyprus, provided that they have academic or professional qualifications,

for which there is demand in Cyprus. Possession of adequate funds is also necessary.

V. Category E: Persons who have been offered permanent employment in the Republic,

which will not create undue local competition.

VI. Category F: Persons who possess and have fully and freely at their disposal a secured

annual income, high enough to give them a decent living in Cyprus, without having to

engage in any business, trade or profession. The annual income required should be at

least CY£5,600 for a single applicant and moreover at least CY£2,700 for every

dependent person, but the Immigration Control Board may demand additional amounts

as necessary.

4.5.5 Acquisition of Citizenship/Nationality

Cyprus citizenship can be acquired by:

Birth: if any of parents was a Cypriot citizen at the time of the birth;

By registration: if he or she is married to a citizen of Cyprus and the two have lived

together for at least 3 years; or by

Naturalization: persons of full age and capacity who were legally residing in the

Republic of Cyprus and who in the last 8 years before their application accumulated

more than 5 years of residence or more than 7 years of residence, if they are sports

players, sports technicians or coaches or work in International Business Companies, or

work for Cypriot employers etc.



19

5.1 The Tourism Sector of Cyprus: A Brief Overview

5.1.1 Tourist Capacity

At present there are 613 tourist establishments in operation. In addition, the Tourism Sector

comprises of 445 licensed travel agents with 162 branch offices, 2 940 licensed catering and

entertainment establishments, 264 licensed tourist guides and a number of other tourist

enterprises. The majority of them are small and medium size businesses.

5.1.2 Tourism Policy - OBJECTIVES - Strategy

The Cyprus tourism industry has been long established and has by now reached a mature stage.

Looking at the broader international tourism perspectives, as they enter the new millennium, it

is obvious that the industry is becoming more and more challenging, with competition getting

intense and the needs of the educated traveler becoming increasingly more diverse and

sophisticated.

The Cyprus Tourism Organization has recognized the importance of satisfying these needs. A

new strategic plan defining the vision, goals and strategic direction for the Tourism Sector in

Cyprus for the period leading up to the year 2020, has now been completed and approved by

the Government.

The strategy, therefore, centers on sustainability and focuses on quality rather than on quantity.

The basic objective of the strategy is the doubling of receipts from tourism, in real terms, by the

year 2020; this objective will be achieved through:

An increase in the per capita spending of tourists,

An increase in the average length of stay of tourists,

An increase in repeat business,

A more even seasonal spread of tourist arrivals,

An increase in the number of arrivals.

The strategy aims at offering value for money to the visitors, through the upgrading and

differentiation of the tourist product.



20

5.1.3 Liberalization of Foreign Investments

Cyprus has an open free market economy. The Island is often aptly referred to as a south-

eastern outpost of Europe. Per capita GNP is one of the highest in the Mediterranean.

In its effort to attract foreign investment, the Government has further relaxed the rules and

regulations applicable to inward investment. In the majority of cases, administrative

procedures have been simplified and foreign participation of up to 100 percent is allowed.

Applications by foreign investors are approved, provided that the proposed investment satisfies

the following basic prerequisites:

National security matters are not compromised

Natural environment conditions are not threatened

The Cypriot economy is not harmed

The level of investment is adequate

Other industry specific criteria, as well as the extent of foreign participation, are determined by

the tourism policy in force. Such applications are examined by the Central Bank in consultation

with the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Tourism. According to the tourism policy

currently in force, up to 49% foreign participation is allowed in hotels and other tourist

establishments (e.g. hotel apartments, villas etc), while in supplementary tourist projects, e.g.

golf courses, marinas, etc, up to 100% foreign participation is allowed.



21

5.2 Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Profile for Cyprus

The year 2008 had been a difficult one for the Travel & Tourism (T&T) sector. High oil prices

through the summer of 2008, diminished tourism demand due to the international economic

crisis, and concerns about terrorism have raised many challenges for the industry. Yet, despite

these difficulties, the T&T sector remains a critical one for the world economy, still accounting

for a significant share of global gross domestic product and employment, and providing an

important opportunity for developing countries to move up the value chain toward the

production of higher value-added services. In this context, an analysis of the T&T

competitiveness of Cyprus is particularly pertinent at this time. This is the fundamental

objective of this Travel & Tourism competitiveness analysis.

5.2.1 Key Indicators

The first section presents several key indicators that give a sense of the size of the country and

its economy. Population and surface area figures are from the World Bank‘s World Development

Indicators Online Database (December 2009). GDP numbers are from the International Monetary

Fund (IMF)‘s World Economic Outlook Database (October 2009 edition). The Environmental

Performance Index rankings are from YCELP, Yale University and CIESIN, Columbia

University. National sources have been consulted where appropriate.



22

5.2.2 Travel & Tourism indicators

The second section presents Travel & Tourism (T&T) indicators that aim to provide a measure

of the past, current, and projected future activity of Travel & Tourism in Cyprus. This section is

split into two parts:

The first part presents data from the Tourism Satellite Accounting Research carried out

annually by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC). Developed by the United Nations

World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the Organization for Economic Co-operation and

Development (OECD), and Euro-stat, the Tourism Satellite Accounting (TSA) framework is a

statistical tool—including concepts, definitions, aggregates, classifications, and tables—that is

compatible with international national accounting guidelines and allows for valid international

comparisons. The TSA also makes these estimates comparable with other internationally

recognized macroeconomic aggregates and compilations. Using the TSA approach, WTTC

estimates the current and projected future economic contribution of Travel & Tourism in terms

of an economy‘s GDP and employment. WTTC defines the T&T industry as a narrow

perspective of T&T activity that captures the production-side industry contribution (that is,

direct impact only). The T&T economy is a broader perspective of Travel & Tourism that takes

into consideration the direct as well as the indirect contributions by traditional travel service

providers and industry suppliers within the resident economy.



23

5.2.3 International Tourist Arrivals and Tourism Receipts

The second part of the T&T indicators presents data on international tourist arrivals and

international tourism receipts over the period 1995 to 2007. The graph shows all available data

during this period for Cyprus economy. The data for these indicators were provided by the

UNWTO.

The number of international tourist arrivals, expressed in thousands, is the most common unit

of measure used to quantify the volume of international tourism for statistical purposes. It

includes exclusively overnight visitors—that is, tourists who stay at least one night in a

collective or private accommodation in Cyprus visited. Same-day visitors are not included. The

number of arrivals does not necessarily correspond to the number of persons. The same person

who makes several trips to Cyprus during a given period will be counted as a new arrival each

time.

International tourism receipts, expressed in millions of current US dollars, are the receipts

earned by Cyprus from inbound tourism and cover all tourism receipts resulting from

expenditures made by visitors from abroad, on, for instance, lodging, food and drinks, fuel,

transport in the country, entertainment, shopping, and so on. This measure includes receipts

generated by overnight as well as by same-day trips. Receipts from same-day trips can be

substantial, as in the case of countries where a lot of shopping for goods and services takes

place by visitors from neighboring countries.



24

5.2.4 Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Index

It presents the economy‘s performance on the Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Index (TTCI)

and its various components for Cyprus.



25

5.2.5 Travel & Tourism competitiveness index in detail

Travel & Tourism competitiveness index in detail presents the rank achieved by Cyprus on each

of the indicators entering the composition of the TTCI. Indicators are organized by pillar.

Next to the rank, a colored square indicates whether the indicator constitutes an advantage

(blue square) or a disadvantage (gray square) for the country. In order to identify variables as

advantage or disadvantages, the following rules are applied:

• For the top 10 economies in the overall TTCI, any variables on which the economy is ranked

10th or higher are considered to be advantages. Any variables ranked below 10 are considered

to be disadvantages.

• For those economies ranked from 11th to 50th on the overall TTCI, any variables with a higher

rank than the economy‘s overall rank are considered to be advantages. Any variables ranked

equal to, or lower than, the economy‘s overall rank are disadvantages.

• For economies with an overall rank on the TTCI lower than 50, any variables for which the

economy has a rank of 50 or higher are considered to be advantages. Any variables ranked

below 50 are considered to be disadvantages.



26



27



28

5.3 Recent Trends in key Tourism Indicators for Cyprus

Objectives:

In these figures, I attempt to:

illustrate, in a graphical manner, recent trends in Cyprus tourism through a series of

indicators

focus on figures and survey results to paint a quantifiable picture of the current tourism

environment in Cyprus

Sources of Data

Cyprus Tourism Organization

Tourist Expenditure Survey

Licensed Accommodation Establishments Data

Statistical Service of Cyprus (Ministry of Finance, Republic of Cyprus)

Passenger Survey – Arrivals

Passenger Survey – Departures

5.3.1 Total Tourist Arrivals and UK Share

As it was a British colony, and a major

portion of it is possesed by the British

people, most of the tourists came from UK

previously.

After being a member of EU, tourists from

all over EU member countries come these

days.



29

5.3.2 Share (%) of Main Source Markets in Arrivals

Tourist arrivals have reached a plateau with

new markets replacing in some cases the more

traditional markets.

A major percentage of tourists come from the

countries like UK, Germany, Greece, Russia,

and Nordic countries.

The Nordic countries make up a region in

Northern Europe and the North Atlantic

which consists of Denmark, Finland, Iceland,

Norway and Sweden, etc.

5.3.3 Seasonality Analysis – Share (%) of Quarters

Seasonality problems persist as evidenced

by both monthly arrivals and the

accommodation units‘ average days in

operation.

In most of the time the weather is very

cold there.

So, it is high time to visit Cyprus in

summer, specially for the tourists from the

countries of cold like Cyprus.

That‘s why the summer season (July-

September) consists of major percentage of tourists.

5.3.4 Type of Tour (Package / Individuals)

There is a clear shift from package tourism

to individuals.

Package tour was dominating individual

type of tour and still dominating but at a

decreasing rate.

The tourists from EU member countries are

traveling Cyprus individually now days.

The change in political stability encourages

tourist to visit Cyprus individually now days.



30

5.3.5 Tourism Revenue and GDP (% Real Change)

A great fall in tourism revenue had occurred

just after 2001.

It is due to change in total tourist arrivals.

But it has been getting positive in recent

years.

5.3.6 Tourism Revenue – Contribution to GDP

Tourism‘s contribution to the GDP is

shrinking as a result of negative /small

growth relative to the economy as a whole.

5.3.7 Analyzing Tourism Revenue (Arrivals and Expenditure)

Percentage real change in expenditure is

dependent on percentage change in total

tourists arrivals.



31

5.3.8 Expenditure Analysis (Length of Stay and Daily Exp.)

The post-2001 negative trend in real

daily tourist expenditure seemed to

have been reversed until 2008.

5.3.9 Arrivals in Licensed Accommodation Units

A frontier is a political and geographical

term referring to areas near or beyond a

boundary. 'Frontier' was borrowed into

English from French in the 15th century,

with the meaning "borderland"--the

region of a country that fronts on

another country.

5.3.10 Type of Accommodation Used by Tourists

Proportion of tourists staying with friends

and relatives or in own residences has

increased.

So, the licensed accommodations have a

decreasing rate.

Tourists love to stay as paying guests now

days.



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5.3.11 Domestic and Outbound Tourism

Both domestic and outbound holiday trips

have shown steady increase.

Domestic tourism: Visits by residents of a

country to their own country.

Outbound tourism: Visits by residents of a

country to another country.

Increased propensity for shorter trips.

5.3.12 Environmental Impact of two-week trip to Cyprus

By some measures tourism is the world‘s largest

industry, accounting for 11% of global GDP and a

similar proportion of world employment.

The chart represents each person‘s annual share of

the Earth‘s resources, if they were divided up fairly

among the entire population. The World Wide Fund

for Nature estimates that a two-week trip to Cyprus

takes up half of our annual ―earthshare‖.

5.4 Cyprus Tourism Targets Indian Outbound Tourists

Mumbai, Maharashtra, November 5, 2009 /India PRwire/ -- Cyprus, a year-round

Mediterranean island destination with a population of close to 800,000 is eyeing the lucrative

Indian outbound market. It announced its foray in the Indian market today.

Addressing the press in Mumbai, Vassilis Theocharides, Director, Middle East and Gulf, Cyprus

Tourism Organization said, "Cyprus is the closest European destination for Indian travelers.

Though a modern island nation, it retains an essentially Mediterranean character." He further

adds, "English is widely spoken in Cyprus as it was a former British colony and it has more

than 19 Indian restaurants, which makes it even more comfortable for the Indian traveler.''

Cyprus is part of the European Union and Indians need a visa to visit Cyprus. They can also

visit on a Schengan visa provided they have entered a Schengan country preceding a visit to

Cyprus.



33

Based on the findings about the tourism in Cyprus, the following Recommendations I

propose to improve the tourism condition not only for Cyprus but also for the

developing countries, especially for Bangladesh.

6.1 Targets

The maximization of the socio-economic benefits will be pursued mainly through the increase

of revenues; this will be the basic index of the success of the strategic plan. The maximization of

revenue from tourism will be achieved through the:

Increase of the tourists‘ expenditure

Improvement of seasonality

Increase in arrivals

Increase in duration of stay

Increase in repeat tourism

Crucial to the achievement of the target of the increase of tourism revenue will be the

abandonment of the traditional practice of concentrating mainly on the increase of new arrivals

and the turning to the maximization of income earned from tourism. The overall revenue target

will be met through the achievement of the predetermined growth rate and the priorities of the

different parameters that constitute the ‗revenue‘ target.

6.2 Repositioning

The enhancement of the competitiveness of Cyprus is of critical importance to the achievement

of these goals. Cyprus will attempt to reposition itself on the tourist map by exploiting the

comparative advantage that allows it to differentiate itself from the competition – the great

diversity in the tourist experience that Cyprus offers in a relatively small geographical area.

The strategic effort for repositioning by 2015 is supported by three component strategies:

Marketing Strategy

Product Strategy and

Quality-Value Added Strategy.

6.2.1 Marketing Strategy

The strategic direction that the marketing of the tourist product is expected to follow calls for a

focused and aggressive approach, aiming at developing these markets and market segments

that can yield the most for Cyprus tourism.



34

Market Prioritization and Market Segments

The segmentation of the tourism market was carried out with the new positioning of Cyprus as

a tourist destination in mind, and it was based on the motives/reasons for travel (motivational

segmentation) for trips as these have been identified in relevant studies and as they are

expected to be transformed over the next 10 years according to the changing characteristics and

expectations of the tourist clientele.

The following are the criteria used for the evaluation of these segments:

Per person expenditure of tourists

Tourist arrivals

Average length of stay

Improvement of seasonality

Repeated tourism

Product fit

Investment (in marketing and product)

Environmental, socio-cultural and economic impact

Potential to complement the tourist experience (add-on)

In terms of the geographical segmentation of the market, countries that can constitute

source markets for Cyprus were identified, evaluated and prioritized in accordance

with the following criteria:

daily per person expenditure

average length of stay

size of the market towards the Mediterranean in relation to direct competitors

the share of Cyprus in the specific markets

ability to positively contribute towards the improvement of seasonality

accessibility

product fit

the match of the targeted segments and markets

overall trends and market potential

Domestic Tourism

The development and promotion of Domestic Tourism may contribute positively towards the

improvement of hotel occupancy rates and the strengthening of the local economies. In addition

to that, it enables the locals to become acquainted with their culture and civilization and

strengthen their ties with the island.



35

Communication Strategy

The Communications Strategy aims at creating a clear and unique image and identity for

Cyprus and at repositioning the island in the international tourist market. The CTO will take

advantage of advertising and the various promotional and public relations tools to

systematically project a coherent and unique image on the basis of repositioning. It will also

attempt to target selected markets and market segments in the most effective possible way.

Distribution Strategy

For the time being the greater part of the tourist flow will continue to be channeled to Cyprus

through the Tour Operators. However, a differentiated approach to collaboration with the Tour

Operators will be followed, so as to cover new areas (upgraded presence in tour operator

brochures, inclusion in specialized programs, extension of specialized programs) and to

strengthen the cooperation with specialist Tour Operators and Cyprus specialists. In the longer

term, a gradual decrease of the dependence on tour operators will be pursued.

6.2.2 Product Strategy

The tourist product offered by a destination determines the type of customer it will attract. The

success or failure of a tourist destination in the international tourist market depends to a large

extent on the range and quality of the tourist product it offers. In an extremely competitive

contemporary marketplace, the winning product is the one that covers and satisfies to the

maximum degree possible, the needs and requirements of the customers to which the

destination appeals.

The proposed Product Strategy aims at the development of a product that:

Will exploit the comparative advantage of Cyprus as a tourist destination and will also

create the conditions for repositioning the island on the tourist map as a destination

offering a multifaceted tourist experience in a relatively small geographical space.

Will be based on the sustainability of the tourist sector.

Will cover the needs and requirements of the targeted market segments.

Special Interest Products

Cyprus has the potential to develop a wide range of special interest products.

Special interest products are products that will function as points of attraction and at the same

time they will present opportunities for different activities and recreation. The development of

the proposed products is necessary in order to create and offer the multi-dimensional tourist

experience on which the repositioning of Cyprus is based, and these products are mainly aimed

at the targeted market segments. At the same time, special interest products will combat the

most fundamental weakness of the Cyprus tourist product, as it has been identified in the

various studies and surveys i.e. the limited opportunities for various activities.



36

Suggested Special Interest Products

The methodology used identified the following special products, which are aimed at the

different targeted market segments and are listed here, in no particular order:

Museums Agro tourism Marine Parks

Routes: Football Grounds Botanical Gardens

-Cultural

-Composite

-Thematic

Infrastructure for Swimming,

Track & Field and other sports

of priority

Exhibitions

Information Centers Golf Events

Conference Centers National Forest Parks Cycling Routes

Coastal Cruises Organized Tours Marinas/Fishing Shelters

Most of the above products also cover the basic segment of the «Sea and Sun plus» clientele.

To develop these special products investment will be required from the public sector, (including

the local authorities) and the private sector alike.

Accommodation

In order to identify the types of accommodation that should be offered, the needs of the selected

market segments were linked to the corresponding types of establishment. The prioritization of

the latter was based on the number of the market segments to which they appeal. Based on

criteria such as the potential for development of new beds, the required new capacity to satisfy

demand until 2015, and on the conclusions drawn from the evaluation of the existing bed stock,

the following strategic directions/intervention areas are proposed:

The new types of accommodation that will be developed must fall into these categories

and classes where a need for new beds was identified; these are the 3 to 5 star hotels,

tourist villages, mixed use destination resorts, small units of character and agro-tourist

establishments.

In order to better serve the targeted market segments, there is a need for the

development of new types of accommodation such as mixed use destination resorts and

small units of character.

The existing accommodation must be upgraded.

Accommodation in lower categories must be encouraged either to upgrade to the

priority categories and classes or withdraw from the market.



37

6.2.3 Quality and Value-Added Strategy

The primary aim of the Quality/Value-Added Strategy is to increase the value for money

offered to the tourist by improving the relationship between price and quality.

Based on the aims of the Strategic Plan, the special targets of the Quality/Value-Added Strategy

may be summarized as follows:

The maximization of the visitor‘s satisfaction.

The offer of a rich and multifaceted tourist experience.

The development of a unique character and identity for the destination.

The supply of tourist facilities and infrastructure of a greater breadth and attractiveness,

and their constant maintenance at high quality levels.

The respect and protection of the natural and cultural environments and social values.

The attainment and maintenance of high quality service levels.

The enhancement of the flexibility, readiness and effectiveness of the tourist sector.

The attainment of more rewarding but still competitive prices that will be in line with

the quality and the value-added offered.

The increase in the productivity and performance for the sector in general.

The better use of investment in tourism, and the improvement of its returns.

The recruitment of Cypriot citizens for the most part, to meet the human resource needs

of the tourist industry.

The preservation of the notion of hospitality and authenticity in the dealings of the locals

with the tourists, and the development and nurturing of tourist awareness and

consciousness.

The elevation of the levels of professionalism.

There are three basic areas of intervention for the Quality/Value-Added Strategy:

Quality

Human Resource Development

Prices

Both the Marketing and the Product Strategies cover in part certain aspects of the above sectors,

and contribute positively to the value offered to the tourist.



38

7.1 Introduction

Tourism refers to travel for recreation, leisure, religious, medical or business purposes from one

place to another place for maximum one year or less time period. This travel may be domestic

or transnational. Tourism is one of the vital service industries and is generating huge revenues

for the tourist country. Tourism has become one of the world's most important sources of

employment. Initially requires enormous investment in infrastructure but ultimately helps to

improve the living conditions of local people. It provides governments with substantial tax

revenues. This also helps for transfer of technologies from one place to another. Tourism related

jobs and businesses are specially created in developing countries, helping to equalize economic

opportunities and keeping rural residents from moving to overcrowded cities. This will in turn

create positive impact on gross domestic product.

Bangladesh is a land of scenic beauty. The country needs proper strategic management to

attract both domestic as well as foreign tourists. For local tourists change of habit to tour

different areas of the country is one of the main important components. And for the foreign

tourist environment as well as other related facilities and worthy places are being required.

Government as well as private sector may come forward to create the base of the tourism. In

turn this will create employment generation for the country and add value in the gross

domestic product. Though Govt. and private initiatives have been taking but still long way has

to go for developing tourism sector. Foreign direct investment in the tourism sector is also being

required. Efficiency and effectiveness in the tourism sector is necessary to expand this sector for

which strategic leadership, strategic formulation and strategic implementations are being

mandatory. This will ultimately help to raise gross domestic product.

Tourism sector of Bangladesh needs to be boosted up through strategic management to raise

gross domestic product of the country. As such linkage among vision, mission, goal and result

are required. This will enhance tourism opportunity of the country .Ultimately this will have

positive impact on raising gross domestic product through improving variables of macro

economy of the country.



39

7.2 Analysis of Porter’s Five Forces Model

Porter‘s (1979) five force model for competitive analysis is done for Tourism sector of the

country which is given below:

Competitive Rivalry between Supplier: Both Govt. and private initiatives for developing

entrepreneurial activities in the tourism sector should be utilized to provide better services to

the tourists. Starting from natural beauty, historical places, good hospitals and health

management system, visit of religious places, security, safety, accommodation, and easy

transportation etc. should be arranged. Pricing of tour related product should be charged lower

than neighboring countries.

Threat of New Entrance: In tourism industry of Bangladesh the private and foreign investors

are reluctant to invest in tourism sector for the following reasons: The bureaucratic system,

involving the approval from several ministries or their agencies; Difficult situation is prevailing

in possessing appropriate land at reasonable prices; Low rate of returns on tourism investment

particularly outside Dhaka may create hindrances. For the lack of advanced technology man

made tourist spots cannot attract foreign tourists. To develop advanced technology the country

needs huge amount of investment but due to instability in political/legal environment and

image problem, foreigners do not feel encouraged in investing .Without attractive tourism

facilities, tourists may change destination.

Bargaining Power of Customers: Buyers of this industry are tourists. They should be well

conversant about the facilities and get the product at low price but high quality. Information

about the facilities should be available for the customers. Websites, Bangladesh Embassies,

Non-resident Bangladeshis may help prospective foreign tourists in this aspect .In case of local

tourists, tour operator should facilitate the process towards the prospective domestic tourists.

Bargaining Power of Suppliers: Outgoing tourists from China are expected to exceed 100

million in the next three years. Indians will also be moving around as tourists. Bangladesh

needs to attract them and improve relationship and communication system with China and

India will be helpful for attracting tourists. Tourists from other countries should be attracted

through providing better services at a cheap price.

Threat of Substitute products: Arrangement for entertainment, transportation facilities, and

travel places must have substitute products. For medical tourism different criteria of health

related services and hospitals must be available. Depending on the product facilities tourists

may choose best alternatives otherwise they may switch to another country where they get

better services.



40

7.3 Integrated Strategy for Developing Tourism Sector of Bangladesh

Following strategies may be pursued in Bangladesh:

Fig: Integrated strategy for developing tourism sector of Bangladesh

Without strategic leadership, organization cannot be built. Both Govt. and private organizations

need to be readdressed the issue and seriously consider to develop strategic leadership. Quality

leadership will develop the organization and driven out the inefficiency and ineffectiveness.

Below the study will discuss different strategy formulation and implementation.



41

The study will discuss different strategy formulations and implementations in the following

Table:

Types of Strategies should be taken for

Strategy Formulations

Strategy Implementations

Strategy for raising Gross

Domestic Product

To increase employment generation,

redistribution income effects, increase of

purchasing power to raise gross domestic

product. Bangladeshi artistic handicrafts and

monuments can be popularized.

The local people adjacent to the tourism products are reaping benefit of the tourism business. In Cox‘s Bazar, the world‘s longest sea beach, various number of tourism activities are taking place. The rate of unemployment is almost negative. The poor people may find tourism as their livelihood through producing and selling handicrafts, monuments etc. to the tourists. Small entrepreneurs should come with the ventures. Similarly people of the Kuakata can also enjoy positive benefits for tourism. They may get employment opportunities as well as business opportunities.

Long term policy should be taken to

develop health sector and to utilize religious

tourism.

Investment for establishing International standard hospitals and preparing doctors, nurses, technologists are essentially required. Religious spots and gathering should be arranged. Safety and security should be provided for which law and order situation should be improved.

Strategy for increasing

foreign exchange earnings

To raise interest in tourism activities and

creating low-cost tourist facilities. Development,

preservation and maintenance of tourism

resources of the country. Opening a

field of investment for private and foreign direct investment.

Many Tourist Information Center are going to establish in different important points of the country especially at Airports and land ports. Different standard accommodations and various facilities are being established like: Construction of Parjatan Motels at Cox‘s Bazar, Kuakta, Bogra, Dinajpur, Rajshahi, Chittagong, Rangpur, Chittagong Hill Districts (Rangamati, Khagrachhari, Bandarban) and Teknaf, Heron point. Construction of world class hospitals and establishment of medical colleges under joint venture or outer campus of high ranking Medical colleges of the developed countries and recruiting doctors, nurses and technologists by the initiatives of private sector is essential.

Creating favorable image of Bangladesh

abroad.

As a part of publicity & marketing activities, two video films named ‗Visit Bangladesh‘ and ‗Discover Bangladesh‘ have been produced. Colorful Brochures and folders have been printed describing the tourism products/ places of attractions in Bangladesh. Aggressive marketing is needed not only within the country but also outside the country. Bangladesh Embassy at abroad should work as a publicity campaign to encourage foreigners to tour.

Creating recreational facilities for foreign

tourists.

Special entertainment arrangements may be allowed for the tourists in special areas. Only those who are tourists can enjoy these recreational facilities.



42 Strategy for

Environment-tal

Management

Conservation of eco- system in coastal zone

and islands and build up eco-tourism in the area

based on the natural bio-diversity for

tourism

The world‘s largest mangrove forest has been designated only for the eco-tourism activities. Bangladesh has formed a taskforce, which determined five objectives for the development of tourism in Bangladesh. However, negative repercussion should be cautiously handled.

Strategy for product

diversifica-tion

To attract local and foreign tourists through

development and maintenance of products

Total tourism products are diversified with: Archaeological sites; ecotourism products; Natural Products/Tourist Attractions; Religious products; Modern or Manmade tourism products; Historical or other potential tourism attractions; Cultural Attractions; Medical products

Strategy for

infrastructural development

To develop the infrastructure at tourist sites BPC, NTO. Private and foreign initiatives and investment also

required.

BPC has been promoting and creating various tourist facilities across the country. It has created as many as 29 tourism units at different places of tourist attractions of Bangladesh in order to facilities to the tourists. BPC‘s vacant lands are being leased out to private sector investors to create tourist facilities. Private sector and foreign direct investment is required to establish world class hospitals, preparing good environment, management of hospitals hiring doctors and nurses and others from not only Bangladesh but also from abroad. They can consider establishing outer campus of the high ranking and well reputed medical colleges of the developed nations. Bishwa Ijtema and other religious festivals can be more systematically arranged to attract both domestic and foreign tourists. As such religious places infrastructure should be developed with greater vision and mission

Strategy for improving

transportation system

To improve and develop easy and best

traveling way

Improvement in road communication should be connected north to south and east to west cities without much trouble and hindrance. Bus services should be improved; Rail-way intercity train service has considerable network to cover the major cities with the capital city. However, services of the railway should be better; Railway line should be established up to Teknaf from Chittagong; Hill tract area should be come under well connected Railway and air system. The inland waterway facilitates easy and cheaper sources of transportation and possesses a great potential for tourism development; The government should maintain international standard of airport in Chittagong, Sylhet, Syedpur and Cox‘s bazaar for easy movement of tourists. Private airlines should come forward to cover different tourist spots; Heron point should be well connected not by only sea transport but also air system.

Strategy for Human

Resources Development

Human Resource Development in Tourism sector is

necessary to develop quality tourism

professionals and products.

Actually strategic leadership should be developed in all sorts of organizations related to tourism sectors to enhance tourism and obtaining as a source of income generations for the individual organization as well as national level of the country. Bangladesh has created National Hotel and Tourism Training Institute through which it has been providing 2-year long diploma in Hotel Management as well as



43

training on six disciplines (Front Office and secretarial operation; Travel agencies and tour operation; food and Beverage production; Food and Beverage services; Housekeeping and Laundry operation; Bakery and pastry production). University of Dhaka has established Tourism and Hospitality Management dept. and providing BBA and MBA degree. Moreover, some private university has started this Tourism and Hospitality dept. Recently under private sector initiatives some good hospitals and diagnostics centers has been established. But these hospitals numbers should be raised at least ten times. Moreover, the country needs highly qualified doctors, good nurses and technologists who can also be recruited from abroad. Especially nurses should be recruited from abroad unless the quality and behavioral attitude of the nurses of the country cannot be developed.

The government should appoint a high-powered board to regulate tourism related industries

under holistic approach by taking the services of knowledgeable persons both from private and

public sectors. This should help in policy formulations and assist in boosting this sector by

removing all barriers that currently hamper a smooth growth. The negative image of

Bangladesh, depicted abroad for some time, needs to be corrected. This will require holistic

approach and a massive marketing campaign to improve image of Bangladesh outside the

country. The government may arrange confidence to attract investment by the private and

foreign sector in hotels, motels, restaurants, theme parks, entertainment centers, hospitals,

religious places and the like. Tax holidays and other incentives could encourage investment by

both local and foreign entrepreneurs. Trade fairs and other promotional activities and

marketing campaigns, from time to time, will be good for obtaining its results.



44

Conclusions

In case of tourism, Bangladesh is far from take-off stage. This stage should be pushed upward.

In terms of tourism beautification out of total 136 countries, Bangladesh's position which is 129

should be improved for which massive investment from the private and public sector is

required. As such special provision should be taken in the Sixth Five year plan which will be

prepared by the Ministry of Planning of the Government of Bangladesh.

The visa restrictions for the tourists must be relaxed. Immigration officials need to be friendly.

Trained manpower can do miracles. The tour operators need to be professional in providing

those services. Good law and order and uninterrupted power supply are essential as it would

be necessary to have all support infrastructures in place. The public and private universities and

professional human resource development institutes have to pay attention to create the

professionals for the tourism and hospitality industry for domestic and foreign employment.

I have never been to Cyprus, but I know much about this tourism developed country both from

my job and the courses I studied in my MBA. It is a great pleasure for me to work for the

Cypriot govt. as well as to help people from Bangladesh willing to go to Cyprus. In one and

about a half year journey of my job, I have achieved practical knowledge regarding Embassies

and the visa process. Importantly, the activities of Embassies and Consulates have direct

impact on tourism. So, that‘s a great experience for me. In my internship report, I tried to

highlight overall tourism of Cyprus which is represented in the findings of the report. I invest

my best effort to prepare this report in where I have tried to find out several problems and

suggested major some recommendations for Cyprus and Bangladesh. I hope, my suggestions

will help to improve tourism both in Bangladesh and Cyprus.



45

References

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"Comparative indicators 2007" (.xls). Statistical Service of the Republic of Cyprus. 2007.

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MPARATIVE-INDICATORS-TABLE2-EN-240107.xls?OpenElement.

http://wapedia.mobi/en/Accenture



46

Ali,Mobasher(2008):Bangladesh Studies(Bangladesher Sandhanaya),Student Ways,Dhaka,4th Edition.

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47

Appendixes

Some pictures of the work place and the people of my organization are given below:

January ’09: We are with Cypriot Officers Ms.

Petrolla, and Ms. Christia

January ’09 at a Restaurant: We are with the

Cypriot officers Ms. Christia, Ms. Petrolla, Mr.

Costa, Mr. Popoulas, and former Director

Admin of GMG Airlines Mr. Moin Uddin.

January ’09 at a Restaurant: We are with the

Cypriot officers Ms. Christia, Ms. Petrolla, Mr.

Costa, Mr. Popoulas, and former Director

Admin of GMG Airlines Mr. Moin Uddin.

June ’09 at office: With my organizational

supervisor Mr. Marios Savvides, and Mr.

Minas Petrou.



48

January ’10 at Westin hotel: From left: Mr.

Marios Savvides, Mr. Michael Trimikliniotis,

Me, Mr. Minas Petrou.

January ’10 at Dhaka Airport, we were

going toChittagong: From left: Mr.

Polydoros, Mr. Minas Petrou, and me.

September ’09 at Basundhara City, waiting

for Azan to take my Iftar in Ramadan:

From left: Mr. Minas Petrou, Mr. Marios

Savvides, and me.

June ’10 at the front desk of Jamuna Resort:

From left: Mr. Polydoros, Mr. Michael

Trimikliniotis, and Mr. Tasos.

Internship Repor

Documents

cyprus tourism

report study

strategies of tourism

republic of cyprus address

internship program

market potentiality

education officer

specific topic