Honiara late 1990s had a devastating impact on the economy due to the fact that virtually all tourist organisations around the world specifically warned tourists wishing to visit the islands to stay away, especially in 2002 and 2003 at the peak of the troubles. In 1998, the country earned around $13 million from tourism and just $629,000 in 1999, equating to an average spend per visit of only US$254 (about US$35/day). In 1999, tourism in the city and nation accounted for just 4.38% of the total GDP. As the capital of Solomon Islands, Honiara contains the majority of the major government
Honiara Central Market being the Kukum Market). For more information, cf. § Management. The market has its own water frontage at Iron Bottom Sound, in order for boats to be pulled in. As such, fisherman can take their catches straight to the market via a boat ramp, seen as significant symbol of how the freshness of fish is valued by Solomon Islanders. Selling occurs both in the permanently covered building, as well as at its sides. The market offers the cheapest food in Honiara. Some women migrate temporarily to Honiara to sell their products at the market. The market is seen as a