If properly run, this program would open up a huge natural resource like Coiba National Park to people who would not normally travel to Panama to go there. As is stands now, it is a long boat ride out to the island and mostly by local pangas that are not the most comfortable ride and open to the weather. And when you finally get there the accommodations are primitive.
It has been announced that public use regulations that will allow construction of hotels, restaurants, transportation systems and other tourist infrastructure within protected areas will be issued midyear.
The regulation is being prepared by the Tourism Authority of Panama, the Panamanian Chamber of Tourism and the Ministry of Environment, as part of the EcoturAP project, announced by the Varela administration in March this year. This initiative aims to exploit protected areas in order to develop sustainable and ecological tourism.
Prensa.com reports that “… within Ecotur AP they are designing public use regulations, including guidelines to be followed by investors who are interested in building infrastructure within protected areas. Under this regulation the construction of hotels, restaurants, transport systems and other activities that improve the experience of tourists will be allowed. “
“… The regulations for public use will not be the same in all protected areas, because each has unique characteristics and limitations to support a certain amount of visitors, such as Coiba. ”
EcoturAP spokespeople indicated that it is expected that the regulation of concessions within protected areas will be ready mid year.
Source: Prensa.com
A great idea! I trust good minds will come up with a sensible balance between preservation of the environment and development for reasonable enjoyment by the people. I for one would love to be involved in developing and operating a modern and safe marina.