Masqueraders performing for visitors at the Cheddi Jagan Airport in Guyana
In excess of 1000 passengers arrived on Monday on several international flights at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, (CJIA) Timehri, where they were warmly welcomed as part of the Tourism Ministry’s Christmas programme.
The Tourism, Industry and Commerce Ministry in collaboration with CJIA and several private businesses, including Banks DIH limited, Madewini Resort and Beharry Group of Companies, provided an opportunity for passengers to sample the true traditions of the Guyanese Christmas.
Upon disembarking the planes and entering the arrival terminals at CJIA, passengers were greeted by carol singing and masquerade dancing, and were treated to black cake and some of Guyana’s fine beverages.
According to a Government Information Agency (GINA) release, Housing and Water Minister Irfaan Ali, who has responsibility for tourism, was on hand to welcome the passengers.
In an invited comment to GINA, Minister Ali said that CJIA is the only international airport in the Caribbean that welcomes passengers so warmly on every occasion.
“This is a long held tradition of the Guyanese people to share the joys of life at very occasion… we are known in Guyana for our warm hospitality, the traditional black cake and of course, the finest rums,” Minister Ali said.
This welcome tradition which was started by former Tourism Minister Manniram Prashad has helped to lift the celebration of festivities in Guyana, Ali said. “On behalf of myself and the government of Guyana, we would like to welcome all the passengers arriving in Guyana, whether it is Guyanese or tourists coming here to spend time with their families during the festive season,” Minister Ali said.
For this reason, he said the Tourism Ministry has planned a host of events for the festive season, including the Christmas tree lightup, the Main Big Lime and the many other festivities in and out of the city for tourists and Guyanese returning home for the holidays.
Minister Ali, sharing his thoughts on Christmas, said it is not only a time for celebrating achievements accomplished during the year, but a time of sharing and integrating the family.
Commenting on arrival figures, he said this year’s figure has already surpassed last year’s by more than six per cent. “So the rumours of people not coming to Guyana because of national and regional elections have no merit… in fact, we have more than 1000 passengers arriving every day, that alone speaks of the magnitude of work for the airport staff and customs,” Minister Ali explained.
He expressed satisfaction with the quality of service being offered by the management and staff of the airport to passengers on their arrival.
In addition, he expressed his gratitude to the several new airlines serving Guyana, including EZjet, Air Jamaica and REDjet.
In relation to security for tourists during the festive season, Minister Ali said that the Guyana Police Force has already pumped up its security activities throughout Guyana.
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