Demand for construction permits to build sea resorts in Gilan Province is growing, indicating that the marine tourism potential of Iran’s coastal regions has attracted the private sector.
Quoting Reza Alizadeh, the head of the provincial office of Iran’s Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts and Tourism Organization, MANA News Agency reports that the growing demand coincides with the successful implementation of developmental projects, including the construction of new roads and widening of existing ones, which have eased the flow of tourists into and out of the region.
“We predict that the number of tourists will notably increase this summer compared with the corresponding period of last year,” he said.
Alizadeh maintained that most travelers to the northern province choose to spend their vacation in coastal cities, such as Rasht, Lahijan, Astara and Bandar Anzali.
“Therefore, promoting outdoor attractions and developing infrastructure in these popular cities is a must to help the industry grow in the region,” he added.
The province has 40 sea resorts, which provide a variety of water sports, such as surfing, skiing and boating.
“Clubs play a key role in strengthening marine tourism and improving the local economy by encouraging more people to visit the region and persuading them to stay longer,” he said.
Alizadeh emphasized that due to a lack of four- and five-star hotels in the region, completing unfinished hotel projects is the organization’s top priority.
“Developing tourism is Gilan’s only way to have a better, more prosperous future,” he said.
