Embassy of the United States

On May 26-30 the embassy hosted the visit of Thomas Tait, the president of the Nevada Tourism Alliance and former tourism commissioner from the state of Nevada. In Dushanbe Mr.Tait met with private tourism operators, international donors, and government officials to discuss opportunities for expanding tourism in Tajikistan and ideas about how to bring more people here to experience the spectacular landscapes and unique cultural and historic heritage.

At a press briefing May 30 Tait summed up his recommendations on how to stimulate tourism in Tajikistan.  He said Tajikistan has the four elements necessary to compete in the international tourism market - scenic beauty, rich culture, history, and recreational activities.  To draw tourists in, the government needs to establish an official website for tourists; ease visa restrictions; and, establish a tourism council of government representatives and entrepreneurs to formulate tourism policy.   He also said that tourism can be an economic engine in any country, and Tajikistan can realize those benefits by making it easier for tourists to travel here.