SOLOMON Islands tourism should go digital to make it easier for operators to find markets and tourists to find Solomon Islands with ease.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Mr Andrew Nihopapra made the statement during the digital tourism workshop on “How to Drive More Sales and Improve Profitability Using the Internet”, which was held yesterday.

He said, “The online space is becoming the tourism distribution channel and your participation at this sort of workshop will ensure you are aware of the latest trends in online marketing in holiday decision-making process.”

Mr Nihopara said one of the biggest and influential names (or medium) in the tourism online marketing space is TripAdvisor.

“I gathered that TripAdvisor has somewhat shifted from an online medium where independent review about tourism experience posted by a traveller is used as an advice to guide the decision by another travellers.

“TripAdvisor evolved into a highly convincing medium for travellers and became the bandwagon of online travel marketing.

“In any or all of our marketing efforts and medium, the bottom line is how it will enhance profitability.

“This should also push us to explore and where possible, adopt the marketing medium that will place you ahead of the rest.

“I cannot overemphasise the importance of the online marketing platform that supports the whole decision-making cycle in the market place,” he said.

Mr Nihopara acknowledged the Pacific Islands Trade and Invest (Australia) towards this very important workshop for the SI tourism sector.

He applauded that it is encouraging to note that the Australian Office (PITAI) is strategically supporting the growth of the sector in the region and Solomon Islands in particular.

Mr Nihopara also acknowledged the partnership between the Solomon Islands Visitors Bureau and TripAdvisor and Hotel Links Solutions for facilitating the workshop.

He stated that it is an exciting new destination in the region, where SIVB is strategically establishing the partnerships that will yield positive results and growth for the sector.