Tourism is the backbone of any economy and when it comes to USA we all know how much potential it holds for tourists from all walks of life and all corners of the world. Continuing with its zeal to strengthen tourism ties between the two countries, Brand USA recently organised the eighth annual India travel mission to highlight the remarkable journey of tourism in the country in the last few years. Appended below are the excerpts from the event –
Arushi Bajaj
A delegation comprising 53 delegates from 38 US tourism organisations travelled to Chennai, Mumbai and New Delhi to educate the Indian travel industry on the limitless potential of the United States as a tourist destination. Besides knowledge distribution, the aim of the event was to enhance, build and renew relationships with the trade partners in India. The finale of the week was the media day in New Delhi, wherein a satisfied delegation, awed with Indian hospitality and geared to take tourism between the two countries further, was more than welcoming to the India media.
John Percy, CDME, President & CEO, Destination Niagara, who was revisiting India as part of the delegation after nine years, enthusiastically shared, “Niagara Falls is a sight to see as one can have an up-close experience with the falls while touching and feeling it. There are amazing fireworks at night; the sunset is magnificent, which makes the entire place nothing but just gorgeous.” He further went on to share that one needs to spend at least two nights in the town to relish the adventure and fun in the vicinity as there is a lot to see around. He mentions, “There are 22 wineries in the region and attractions such as old fort Niagara give offers tourist a unique kind of experience.”
Ashley Abney, Manager of International Marketing, Visit California, illuminating on the destination says, “It is a very busy destination with plenty to offer to the discerning traveller. India is the number one opportunity market as the people are affluent and willing to spend. Honeymooning in California is gaining a lot of importance and millennial of course cannot be forgotten.” The destination is a mix of corporate and leisure simultaneously, making it a year round destination. Attractions such as Jurassic World, Lego Land, etc. bring something new to the table. She concluded, “One must stay for at least 10 days to get a hang of California as a destination.”
Jackie Ennis, Senior Director, Global Trade Development for Brand USA, enhancing USA’s image said, “For sure there is a growing interest in the destination and we see a lot of potential in the India market. There has been a 7.2% increase in tourist arrivals from India. It is a very important market in terms of interest, reach and spend. The sense of exploration among Indians is totally different in terms of willingness to self-drive, night life, food, history and culture. 10 year VISA has been an encouragement and icing on the cake bringing in a lot millennials.”
Last but definitely not the least, the dynamic and pleasant lady behind the initiative, Sheema Vohra, Managing Director, Brand USA, India said, “The event has been remarkable, with the engagement in each city generating noteworthy opportunities and avenues for future business expansion with our Indian partners. This year’s tremendous turnout further enhances USA as the most preferred travel destinations, offering diverse range of immersive experiences.”
