The Balkans come calling
In 2016, Slovenia recorded 20,000 Indian overnights. Indo European Travels in collaboration with Indo Asia Holidays is working hard to introduce the destination to the Indian market to increase this number.
In collaboration with Indo Asia Holidays, Air India and CII from India–under the aegis of the Embassy of the Republic of Slovenia and Slovenian Tourist Organisation (STO)–Indo European Travels, a DMC specialised in European travel for the Indian market, is promoting Slovenia, Central Europe and the Balkan region. The organisation conducted its roadshows in New Delhi, Mumbai and Kolkata.
Dragan Ljusic, Business Owner, Indo European Travels, notes that when compared to 11 million overnights derived from more than 4 million tourists in 2016 in Slovenia, the Indian arrivals of 20,000 is a very small figure. Elaborating on the destination’s tourism assets, Ljusic says, “There is no dearth of tourism products for MICE, FIT and leisure travellers. Products such as thermal spa resorts, casinos, golf tourism, activities like hiking, skiing, kayaking, adventure parks, adrenaline parks, mountain biking, zip lining, paragliding, scenic flights or special experiences like tours through wine regions, food tasting, cycling through abandoned underground mines etc. are on offer.”
Slovenia offers accommodations ranging from deluxe to luxurious 5-star hotels while an increased number of luxurious boutique hotels are also opening up. Slovenia is also a cost effective destination and can be combined with neighbouring destinations like Austria, Italy and Croatia, claims Ljusic.
Sudesh Behal, Director, Indo Asia Tours, elaborates, “India is a maturing market and an increased number of people are looking at exploring new destinations. I believe Slovenia and the neighbouring countries offer this opportunity and we are geared up to handle all queries for this region. It is also interesting to note that Slovenia has the biggest casino in Europe and there is a segment of travellers in India that may be interested in exploring this product.”