Plans to Develop Qeshm Community-Based Tourism

The government plans to develop community-based tourism for Gouran Village on Qeshm Island.

The plan, devised by Qeshm Free Zone Organization, was among the top three proposals for the educational course on ecotourism management and planning offered by Japan International Cooperation Agency earlier this year, the organization’s official website reported.

The program involves a visit to a local boat building workshop and learning about the methods of making wooden boats and their advantages over other types of marine vessels.

Tourists will then set sail on a wooden boat and learn about traditional sailing methods and practice a local fishing method known as Moshta.

By demonstrating how the locals work in tandem with nature, “the tour seeks to promote conservation of the environment as well as the customs and traditions of the region,” Farzin Haqdel, QFZO’s deputy for tourism, said.

“The message is that preservation of local culture results in the protection of the sea and the lives it supports,” he added.

The official said uncontrolled tourism can lead to loss of identity and traditions, while community-based tourism can help prevent that.

Such programs, according to Haqdel, can encourage tourists to respect local communities.

In the pilot study, the tour was organized by Gouran Historical Port’s Cooperative Company for a group of JICA members. The travelers were reportedly happy with the experience and the key message of the tour was conveyed successfully.   

An educational course on ecotourism management and sustainable tourism in Iran was held during Jan. 29–Feb. 26 in Japan for Iranian experts from state organizations and NGOs.

Conservation of the environment, crisis management, improving the standards of living in rural communities, management of water resources and development of domestic industries were among subjects covered during the month-long workshop.