Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) has announced plans to take part in PATA Travel Mart 2019, organised by the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA).
The event, which is set to be held in Astana in September, will be co-hosted by the Ministry of Culture and Sports of Kazakhstan and the Kazakh Tourism National Company JSC, a key organisation in the country’s tourism industry.
“We are excited to hold the first-ever PATA event in Central Asia in the Republic of Kazakhstan. As the destination stands at the crossroads between Asia and Europe, it is the perfect venue to organise the Association’s signature travel trade exhibition in a uniquely transformational city that blends various cultures and heritages of both the East and West,” PATA CEO Dr Mario Hardy was quoted in a statement, as saying.
“We look forward to working with the host in showcasing this truly unique destination.”
Kazakhstan is the heart of Eurasia. Located simultaneously in two parts of the world — Europe and Asia — it is at the junction of several of the world’s largest civilisations and borders with China, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and the Russian Federation. Due to its key strategic location, it is amongst the strongest supporters of the Belt and Road Initiative strategy adopted by the Chinese government.
According to the World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), the country received a total of over 7.7 million total visitors in 2017.
Kazakhstan has a unique geography with a rich and diverse landscape, which includes numerous lakes, lowlands, deserts and valleys framed by mountains in the east and southeast. Due to the large territory and variety of natural conditions, there are over 6,000 species of plants, 172 species of mammals, 500 species of birds, 52 species of reptiles, 12 species of amphibians, and 150 species of fish.
The country’s new capital Astana has become a showpiece for 21st-century Kazakhstan, with a fantastical skyline marked by landmark buildings designed by leading international architects in a variety of Asia, Western, Soviet and futuristic styles. Astana, also known as the ‘Singapore of the Steppe’, is a growing city with a young, forward-looking vibe, where Kazakhstan’s ambitious and talented youth are increasingly drawn. This ever-growing city – host to the Expo 2017 world fair – offers a glimpse into a town of tomorrow.
Special discounts are available for sellers located within Central Asia.
PATA and MATATO continues to have a collaborative partnership for international travel trade events, and MATATO is the designated seller in Maldives for the PATA Travel Mart 2019. Special discounted rates are available for tourism businesses who register for the exhibition through MATATO, which is taking part in PATA Travel Mart for the fourth consecutive year.