Oman to be guest of honor at Grand Pavois 2017
The 45th edition of the Grand Pavois boat show in La Rochelle, France has chosen a Middle Eastern country as its guest of honour for the first time. The internationally acclaimed Grand Pavois be- gins on Wednesday and concludes on October 2.
Alain Pochon, president, Grand Pavois Organisation, said, “It is a great honour and a true joy for us, the Grand Pavois La Rochelle, to welcome the Sultanate of Oman as the 2017 guest of honour. Its 5,000 years of his- tory has forged many unique cultural, human and architectural treasures among landscapes of extreme diversity and beauty.
“Of course, the sea is intrinsically linked to Oman thanks to its immense coastline, and sailing with Oman Sail, is one of this country's privileged lines of com- munication. Oman will awaken the curiosity of the expected 85,000 visitors and its hall will be one of the main attractions.
“We also believe that many water sport professionals will be very interested in this country which is attracting interest and developing responsible tourism.”
The Oman pavilion will be inaugurated under the patronage of the Ministry of Tourism, and in the presence of an Omani delegation and some private sector partners. The 700sq m pavilion, decorated in Omani style, will allow visitors to discover the sultanate through various experiences.
The pavilion will feature a souq, a restaurant, henna application and calligraphy demonstrations. An Omani folklore group will perform at the show and on the streets of La Rochelle. Visitors will also have a chance to win a chance to tag along with Oman Sail on a Class 40 or Diam 24 vessel at the boat show, and a trip for two to Oman.