Wednesday, June 9, 2010

Imitation the most sincere form of flattery? Or the last acts of desperation………..

Something I/we have been pondering for a while now, there is an element on Mafia that appears to follow our every move, butting in on our conversations on social media sites, telling tour operators all sorts of bizarre nonsense about us, poaching our staff, posting misleading information on travel forums and other websites. This has stepped up since the publication of the latest Rough Guide to Tanzania which gave us a very good review. Perhaps there’s jealousy creeping in?

But here’s the thing; there is more than enough room on this Island for every one of the small number of Lodges/camps. Each offers something different, aimed at different types of client, ranging from extreme sport types to beachcombers and lovers! There’s also a range of prices to cover all types of traveller and holidaymaker. So why the need for any dirty underhand dealings? It may be that we are naïve in our approach to business. However, these activities don’t seem to achieve much and could be damaging to the reputation of the islands tourism industry. The biggest losers would be the islanders themselves, not the likes of us and the owners of most of the other lodges who always have choices if the going gets bad.

We’re all concerned with survival during these difficult economic times but surely it’s better to concentrate on providing the best experience for tourists and promoting this wonderful island in a positive manner?

6 comments:

  1. Sadly it happens a lot. I was stunned a while back to find that a local town had refused to have a farmers' market because it would 'impact' on the local shops (the perception being negatively)...Yes, it would impact on them but surely only for the good?
    In a small community such as yours (and ours) we do all have to pull together. The more Mafia (and Exmoor) is seen as a niche destination, the better for everyone. *sigh* People are SO short-sighted.

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  2. Too true, sadly the only time 'pulling together' happens is when there is an outside threat.

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  3. It's happened to us at every stage of our development even now. Low lives!

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  4. Hey there,

    Try to ignore them! You know that you are doing a great job so keep your head down and keep doing what you do well.

    We had a fantastic time when we came to stay with you in Aug 2008, remember? The mad couple who lived in Dubai. We finally got out! Check out the blog http://haybalehappiness.blogspot.com/

    We still yearn for Africa though!!!!! and envy the likes of yourselves that have had the courage to go for it.

    So glad to see that things are still going well for you.

    Keep up the good work.

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  5. Hi Ceri

    Wow, some move honey, the pictures are beautiful (not surprising knowing the photographer!)

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  6. @Richard, low lifes doesn't even begin to cover it,some of the antics could literally drive you crazy if you let them. I've found laughing at them is the best way, they really are ridiculous. To be honest the ones they hurt the most are themselves and sadly the local population.

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