As part of the integrated
plan the historic village will be rehabilitated and become
an Interpretation and Education Center for visitors and
tourists. This area to be reached by boat from the main
resort and by main road will contain several buildings,
displays of natural history found in the area, cultural
traditions, educational displays and the opportunity for
NGOs to showcase and sell traditional crafts, products
and handicrafts. Cultural activities will feature art
displays, cultural performances and other forms of arts
and crafts. Storytelling about the areas’ past tales
and legends will highlight the uniqueness of the site.
The main objective of the project is to develop the area
through responsible and sustainable tourism recognized
practices and to attract new tourism to the region while
contributing towards the regeneration of the natural beauty,
cultural and heritage resources of the area, all in consultation
with all stakeholders. From the start, Stichting Plantage
Berg en Dal, a foundation established to coordinate and
promote the interests of families living in the historic
village of Berg en Dal, is an important stakeholder actively
involved in the development of this project. The stakeholders
also comprise the local communities of the impact zone,
officials and the private sector that will provide some
of the many direct and indirect services required for
the implementation and execution of this ambitious project,
and also donor organizations interested in participation
in one way or another with capital and resources to enhance
the total product.
Benefits will be generated on different
levels. The most significant ones are the impact on the
regional economic development, poverty eradication, development
of the hospitality industry in Suriname, as well as the
creation of a flagship premium eco-cultural boutique resort,
the contribution to our GDP and balance of payments, employment
and training, and in general the regeneration of an entire
area from a sustainable economic, natural and cultural
perspective.
Overall, Berg en Dal will open a new and important
chapter in Kersten’s
existence, in the region and the country. As a unique
development Berg en Dal will attract tourists to the area
and its surroundings for many types of tourists that desire
to connect with nature, culture and heritage in a unique
setting.
Be it for nature and heritage lovers, individuals
searching for cultural experiences, adventure and education,
at Berg en Dal everyone can experience a rewarding and
unforgettable time.