For Kutaisi’s hotel sector, increasing tourist numbers is not the only challenge. Central Hotel co-founder Tekla Meburishvili says the city needs to attract higher-spending visitors who can generate greater economic value.
Speaking to BMGTV’s Women’s Narrative, Meburishvili said tourists’ origins and spending power affect how much they spend in Georgia and specifically in Kutaisi. “It is not only important how many tourists come to the country, but also how much each of them spends. Higher-spending tourists leave more money in the country, benefiting hotels, restaurants, cafes and other businesses, as well as the city budget,” she said.
The sector also faces challenges from the country’s political situation. Meburishvili said the hotel has recently lost bookings as some foreign guests cancel their trips after following developments in Georgia through the media and social networks.
“When there are protests and internal unrest, foreign tourists can easily see this through the media and social networks. Everyone is careful with their time and resources and naturally tries to choose a country where they will feel safe, relax and enjoy their planned trip peacefully,” Meburishvili said.
