By Bernadette H. Carreon
Horizon news staff

Japan Airlines said that Palau’s natural environment will attract high-end tourism and should remain undamaged.
Shunzo Shiina, Vice President Industry Affairs of Japan Airlines International Co. Ltd in his presentation during the National Economic Symposium however said that although Palau’s strength is its environment, the infrastructures are not "tourist friendly."
Shiina said that for the Japanese market, Palau is one of the most popular overseas destinations rated by divers and frequently featured by magazines for divers.
He said that due to the direct air service by the JAL charters, Japanese tourists can easily travel to Palau.
However Palau has a limited market segment have a hard time attracting non-divers.
Shiina said that Palau should put up street signs and public transportation and also provide more high-end hotels and resorts.
He recommended that Palau should also consider providing possible new attractions other that diving such as fishing, glass bottom boat, hotel/ resort with private beach.
Palau should also offer non-marine activities to tourists such as nature trekking, golf course and casino.
Shiina however said that Palau should be cautious with putting up a golf course and casino.
JALs charter operation to Palau began in 1195 with Boieng 767 and has operated 430 flights and carried more than 70,000 visitors in 12 years through 2006.
Shiina said that Japan’s travel market is changing through departure from traditional package tours.
Shiina added that for further promotion of tourism from Japan Palau should "not achieve rapid growth that is likely to cause adverse side effects."
He added that Palau should undertake a " step-by-step approach will result with steady and sustainable growth."
Shiina said that JAL will continue its support for the promotion of Japanese tourism to Palau as a high end resort destination.