Dili spending more on tourism

DILI, East Timor: The East Timor provincial government has allocated a budget of Rp 16.3 billion ($7.7 million) this year for the development of the territory's tourism industry.

Chief of the Tourism Office Thomas Corriera told Antara that part of the money will be taken out of the administration budget and the rest will be raised from other sectors.

The funds will be used to develop more accommodation facilities, training for tourist guides and the upgrading of tourist objects in Manatuto and Liquisa regencies in East Timor.

The administration is also considering a promotional campaign in Indonesia and abroad.

Corriera said the biggest drawback for East Timor's tourism is the lack of transportation in the province. (emb)