First Base is the equivalent of an 'Editorial'. It is the opportunity for S & A to provide comment and provoke discussion on topical issues relating to leisure and tourism. This will be provided each month and we would welcome your feedback on the matters raised.

Fist Base 22: The Danube Floods!

Date: 20/5/2004

Last week I was on holiday in Budapest watching CNN report horrendous flooding in an area of the City in which I was staying.

Needless to say I experienced no discomfort or interruption to the holiday. The media clearly has the potential to put whatever spin is relevant, useful, or expedient at the time of going to press.
Four years ago S & A had the privilege to host two groups of Hungarian tourism specialists interested in experiencing city and rural tourism. We took them to Bath and South Somerset. Our Hungarian colleagues were appreciative of their access to quality rural accommodation providers and interesting rural visitor attractions. They were less impressed with our city and spa product. Now I can see why ... eight evenings in Hungary, eight meals and none less than 100% quality! All staff were enthusiastic, welcoming and helpful. We have much to learn!

That is an important statement ... as competition increases globally we must heed what is happening on our doorstep. Hungary, Poland, Slovenia, Croatia .... the new competition for UK tourism. These countries are working hard. To compete we must work twice as hard.

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