A ‘stately’ twist to tourism

Commenting on the response for the Gujarat Travel Mart 2013 ( GTM), Kaul said, “Last year, we received tremendous response from both domestic and international buyers and witnessed a 40 per cent increase in participation over 2012.” GTM 2013 comprised State Tourism Boards, NTOs, travel trade associations, transportation partners, travel agents and tour operators, MICE operators, technology providers, hotels and resorts, specialists in Wellness and Medical, Adventure as well as Ecotourism. The Gujarat pavilion showcased the different facets of the state such as its festivals, beaches, heritage, which will include the Gandhi Circuit and Buddhist Circuit, heritage hotels, National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries, Medical Tourism facilities, handicrafts, pilgrimage sites, etc.

According to Jyoti Kapur, President, ADTOI, the associa- tion has adopted a strategy to promote the state during the GTM as well. “In collaboration with our Gujarat Chapter, we are looking at launching the State Specialist Plan next year. This will be a one-week training programme to enhance the knowledge of the travel trade about attractions and destinations of Gujarat thus enabling them sell the state more effectively.” The Travel Mart, which was scheduled to happen this year in the month of March, was postponed due to the national elections.

The first edition of Madhya Pradesh Travel Mart - The Wildlife, Heritage, Culture and Tourism Showcase was also concluded recently. The B2B event witnessed over 100 registered buyers from over ten countries exploring business opportunities for travel and tourism products. Madhya Pradesh Travel Mart 2014 offered two exhibitor segments, namely Destination Madhya Pradesh and Incredible India Section.