'Booking system key to high-quality ecotourism'

The Hong Kong government is urged to implement a reservation system for popular ecotourism locations as part of its strategy to deliver top-notch ecotourism experiences to visitors. This suggestion was made by lawmaker Perry Yiu on Monday following a survey conducted by his office and the New Youth Forum. The poll revealed that roughly 76 percent of the 650 residents surveyed believed that a booking system is essential for developing Hong Kong's countryside resources into high-quality ecotourism destinations.

Yiu pointed out that the government could learn from the recently introduced real-name reservation trial scheme for the Po Pin Chau trail in Sai Kung East Country Park and apply similar crowd management techniques to other ecotourism sites.

Yiu called for a thorough review of the pilot scheme once it ends, urging the government to collaborate with relevant stakeholders and the tourism sector to improve the system and make it more user-friendly for residents and travelers. He also proposed establishing an interdepartmental ecotourism coordination team to streamline the permit application process.

Furthermore, authorities should explore the potential creation of a certification scheme for travel agencies and tour guides with expertise in ecology. Tommy Tam, chairman of the Travel Industry Council, emphasized that only those with accredited credentials should be permitted to guide tours at certain ecological hotspots. The Travel Industry Authority should also monitor social media platforms to tackle tours organized by unauthorized groups, thereby safeguarding travelers.