Maldives has been exhibited at BIT – International Tourism Exchange in Milan to promote the destination in one of its most traditional markets, Italy.
During the three day exhibition from February 10-12, the Maldives is represented by 17 officials from 10 industry partners. The delegation is led by Thoyyib Mohamed, the Managing Director of Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC).
Maldivian officials are meeting with industry professionals to explore means to further develop and strengthen the presence of the destination in the Italian market. In addition to business meetings, the Maldivian delegation will directly engage with major tour operators and top travel trade media at an informal press briefing scheduled for February 12.
The Maldives stand, which is built in a 74 sqm space located at the first floor of the World Pavillion, Pavillion 4, showcases various aspects of the destination through colourful images that represent the segments most identified with the Italian market. Although most travellers visiting the Maldives wish to engage in gastronomic experiences, adventures, wellness and exploration, Italian tourists are mostly motivated by the options offered by Maldives for relaxation. Snorkelling, diving and honeymoon are also major motivational factors for Italian tourists.
Additional activates at the stand include food tasting of local snacks. Other highlights include virtual reality experience of Maldives with colourful underwater flora and fauna, swim with whale sharks or the serene sunny beaches of the Maldives. Visitors also stand a chance to win a free holiday to to Paradise Island Resort & Spa, sponsored by Villa Hotels & Resorts.
An event organised by Fiera Milano, BIT has brought tourists and travellers from all over the world to Milan since 1980. BIT 2018 recorded 46,000 visitors, including 2,550 representatives accredited by the Italian and global media, 500 travel bloggers, 1,500 top Italian and international profiled buyers from 79 different countries.
Despite a generalised stagnation of the economy and political uncertainty, the Italian travel industry has posted a positive outlook for both inbound and outbound tourism. After a decade of stagnation, expenditure by Italian travellers abroad rose by 8.9 per cent in 2018 when compared to 2017.
Italy is the fourth largest source market to the Maldives, with 105,297 arrivals recorded in 2018. This is a growth of 18.5 per cent compared t0 2017. The Italian market holds 7.1 per cent of the total tourist arrivals to the Maldives.