Gunjan Sabikhi
OTOAI, a leading travel association in India, represented outbound tour operators and travel agents is committed to promoting international travel from India. Its recent collaboration with TGA reflected a shared commitment to nurturing tourism partnerships and facilitating meaningful exchanges within the travel industry, further strengthening ties between India and Türkiye.
The familiarisation trip or Mega Fam as it was referred to, offered OTOAI members an immersive journey through Türkiye’s iconic destinations, ensuring an unforgettable experience rich in cultural exploration and scenic marvels. Covering the enchanting cities of İstanbul, Antalya, and İzmir with specific visits to Pamukkale and Kuşadası, participants explored the diverse array of attractions that Türkiye had to offer, ranging from ancient ruins to breathtaking natural wonders. Each stop on the itinerary was meticulously curated to highlight Türkiye’s rich cultural heritage, spectacular landscapes, and renowned hospitality, providing OTOAI members with a comprehensive understanding of the country’s tourism offerings.
In addition to sightseeing excursions, the trip also included strategic B2B meetings scheduled in İstanbul, where Turkish tourism sector representatives and Indian travel agents convened to foster meaningful discussions and forge valuable partnerships. These meetings served as a pivotal platform for collaboration, allowing industry professionals to explore innovative avenues for enhancing tourism between India and Türkiye. By facilitating dialogue and exchange, the aim was to strengthen bilateral ties and promote sustainable growth in the tourism sector that both nations could benefit from.
Sharing his thoughts on the completion of the Mega Fam, Riaz Munshi, President, OTOAI said, “We are delighted with the success of the FAM trip. As India’s leading association of outbound tour operators, we are dedicated to promoting international travel and fostering collaborations that benefit our members and the global tourism industry. This familiarisation trip offered our members invaluable insights into Türkiye’s tourism offerings and facilitated networking opportunities with key stakeholders in the Turkish tourism sector. Indian tourists have shown a strong preference for a variety of tourism experiences in Türkiye and after this Mega Fam, we are confident that tourist traffic from India to Turkey will only grow further.”
Türkiye, a premier destination for travellers worldwide, continues to see a remarkable surge in tourism from India. In the first 5 months of 2024, the number of Indian visitors reached an impressive 1,26,000, representing a 34% increase compared to the same period in 2023. This surge is notable against the backdrop of 2023, wherein Türkiye welcomed a total of 2,74,000 Indian tourists for the entire year. This significant growth highlights Türkiye’s ongoing appeal and its strategic efforts to attract more Indian tourists.
Highlights of the Trip:
Antalya:
– Participants experienced the serene beauty of Antalya with visits to Side Ancient City, the iconic Land of Legends, and the historic Antalya Old City. Luxurious stays and dining at Alibey Resort Sorgun and Gloria Serenity Resort showcased the region’s top-notch hospitality.
Denizli:
– The group explored the remarkable Pamukkale Travertines and the ancient city of Hierapolis. A relaxing stay at Lycus River Thermal Hotel complemented the historical exploration, providing a perfect blend of culture and relaxation.
Izmir:
– The trip included a fascinating visit to Ephesus Ancient City, one of the world’s most significant archaeological sites. The vibrant Alsancak and Kordon districts offered a glimpse into the local lifestyle, while Alacati charmed everyone with its unique ambiance.
Istanbul:
– In Istanbul, participants engaged in productive B2B meetings with Turkish Tourism Industry Representatives, visited iconic landmarks such as The Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and the Basilica Cistern, and enjoyed a picturesque Bosphorus dinner boat tour. The stay at Swissotel Bosphorus and dining at Madhu’s Istanbul highlighted the luxury and modernity of the city.
The FAM trip provided an unparalleled opportunity for participants to experience the diversity and richness of Turkey. From the ancient ruins of Ephesus and the thermal travertines of Pamukkale to the bustling streets of Istanbul, attendees were treated to a comprehensive overview of Turkey’s offerings. The luxurious accommodations and curated experiences highlighted Turkey as a prime destination for Indian travellers.
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