The Maldives tourism ministry has ordered all of the island's spas and health centres to close following allegations by an opposition party that they were being used by prostitutes. The move, which takes immediate effect, was prompted by the Adhaalath party of conservative religious members, when they protested last week saying that the centres were being used as brothels. A government spokesperson has told the AFP agency that "An Islamic party has been agitating against spas hoping to embarrass the government."
The Maldives Association of Tourism Industry, along with thousands of tour operators around the world, is worried that the ban could seriously harm the industry in the country on which it relies heavily and has called for the government to reconsider. It is expected that the ban will be lifted precisely because spas are so important as part of holiday packages which costs thousands of pounds.
According to The Telegraph, the Huvafen Fushi resort is indeed aware of the ban but has kept its spa open and is taking bookings for the New Year.
No comments:
Post a Comment