SA's tourism attractions to be showcased in India

A TOTAL of 14 South African exhibitors representing all sectors of the tourism industry and including leading hotel groups, tour operators and provincial tourism organisations, yesterday embarked on a week-long roadshow to India, organised annually by South African Tourism in partnership with South African Airways, the South African High Commission in New Delhi and the South African Consulate General in Mumbai. Accompanied by SA Tourism's general manager: Asia/Oceana hub, Sarel Opperman, the group will host workshops in Mumbai, New Delhi, Chennai and Bangalore between October 8 - 11 before returning to South Africa on October 12. With close to five million departures a year – of which 69% are business travellers, 26% leisure and 9% VFR (visiting friends and relatives) - India has one of the fastest growing outbound markets in the world, with the MICE (meetings, incentives, conference and exhibition) and family travel sectors promising to be especially valuable. Interest and awareness in South Africa is particularly strong at the moment due to the fact that this year's International Indian Film Awards were held here in June, and because several Indian films have been shot in the country. Prior to the group's departure, Opperman said he was heartened by the fact that, despite the recent US tragedy and the continued threat of unfolding hostilities, not one participant had withdrawn from the trip, out of which he has continued hopes for the further growth of the important emerging Indian market that last year contributed increased inbound arrivals to the tune of 25 951 visitors. (Adéle Mackenzie)