World Travel Market has announced that Azerbaijan will participate in the 2008 show. Europe remains a growth area at World Travel Market, with both visitor and exhibitor numbers increasing year on year, but this is the first time that Azerbaijan has exhibited at the event, reflecting the country’s development into a desirable destination for business and leisure travellers…
World Travel Market has announced that Azerbaijan will participate in the 2008 show. Europe remains a growth area at World Travel Market, with both visitor and exhibitor numbers increasing year on year, but this is the first time that Azerbaijan has exhibited at the event, reflecting the country’s development into a desirable destination for business and leisure travellers.
Located at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Azerbaijan was once a major stopover for travellers on the Great Silk Route, and is now quickly becoming a hotspot on the modern tourist’s map. Renowned for its carvings, carpets and medieval mosques, the capital Baku is booming with new hotels in both the business and boutique sectors.
The country’s abundance of natural oil and gas has brought an influx of international business and investment in tourism, facilities and attractions. The ancient oil and gas sources also provide their own attractions for visitors keen to learn why the country is called the ‘Land of the Fires’, such as Yanar Dag (Fire Mountain), a 33 foot wall of fire blazing from the underground springs.
Azerbaijan’s debut at World Travel Market comes as the country’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism launches a 10-year programme to stimulate tourism development in the region. Leyla Verdiyeva, spokesperson for the Ministry, said: “We are delighted to be participating in World Travel Market this year. Azerbaijan has begun its integration into the European tourism community through participation in travel exhibitions, and World Travel Market marks its debut onto the world tourism stage. We hope to communicate the country’s unique appeal as the European charm of the Orient.”
Alongside Azerbaijan, World Travel Market will welcome over 400 other exhibitors from the Middle East region this year. More than 47,000 travel professionals, senior management, buyers and opinion formers from regions, countries and industry sectors throughout the world are expected to attend the 2008 show at ExCel, London. The event takes place from 10-13 November.
Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.
