TAAI Convention to be held from 6th – 9th July 2023.
The Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) is thrilled to announce its TAAI 67th Convention and Exhibition, scheduled to take place in the beautiful city of Colombo, Sri Lanka. In association with the Sri Lanka Association of Inbound Tour Operators (SLAITO), this eagerly anticipated event will be held from July 6 to July 9, 2023. TAAI’s decision to host the convention in Sri Lanka this year demonstrates their steadfast commitment to the country, which has made significant strides in recovering from the economic challenges faced in the previous year.
Discover the Allure of Sri Lanka
With post-tours planned as part of the convention, attendees will have a wonderful opportunity to experience the captivating attractions that Sri Lanka has to offer. Known for its natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, Sri Lanka promises to provide an unforgettable experience for delegates attending the TAAI Convention.
Creating Synergy and Driving Tourism
Mrs Jyoti Mayal, the President of TAAI, expresses her excitement about hosting the convention in Sri Lanka, emphasizing the strong potential for collaboration between TAAI members and local tour operators. By fostering partnerships and collaboration, the aim is to boost tourist traffic between India and Sri Lanka, which are already connected by a spiritual bond. The Sri Lankan Tourism Promotion Board (SLTPB) has expressed its desire for the Indian tourism industry to be an integral part of Sri Lanka’s growth story and witness the resurgence of this island nation. In 2023 alone, Sri Lanka has already welcomed approximately 75,000 Indian visitors, making India its most significant source market. To extend a warm welcome to the 500 Indian delegates, including media professionals, attending the convention, Sri Lanka is eager to roll out the red carpet. The convention serves as an opportunity for TAAI members to engage in meaningful discussions and debates, empowering them to strengthen their businesses.
Theme and Schedule Highlight
Mr Amish Desai, a Managing Committee Member of TAAI, revealed the convention’s theme – “Transcending Borders – Transforming Lives.” This theme encapsulates the essence of TAAI’s mission to overcome barriers and make a positive impact on the lives of individuals involved in the travel industry.
Mr. Jay Bhatia, Vice President of TAAI, shared an overview of the convention schedule with the media. On July 6, delegates will arrive in Colombo, followed by a media briefing between 3 pm and 5 pm for both local and Indian media representatives. The opening ceremony, scheduled for 7 pm at BMICH, will mark the official commencement of the convention. The subsequent days, July 7 and 8 will feature engaging business sessions and knowledge discussions from 10 am to 1 pm. Between 2 pm and 5 pm, approximately 200 delegates will participate in B2B meetings, while the remaining attendees will have the opportunity to explore the city and its attractions through city tours and sightseeing activities.
Additionally, a theme dinner is planned for July 7 at Temple Trees, the official residence of the Prime Minister of Sri Lanka. On July 8, delegates will enjoy a memorable gala evening at the scenic Heritance Negombo Hotel, located along the pristine beach. The convention will conclude on July 9, offering delegates the option to embark on day excursions from Colombo to breathtaking destinations such as Bentota, Kandy, and Galle. Overnight tours to these locations are also available, with a maximum of 50 delegates per excursion. Detailed information on speakers and sessions will be shared in due course.
Seamless Registration Process
Mr. Lokesh Bettaiah, Honorary Secretary General of TAAI, emphasized that online registration is mandatory for all delegates attending the convention. To facilitate a user-friendly experience, the TAAI website provides comprehensive details regarding hotels, airlines, and convenient payment gateways. Online registrations will commence on May 28, and TAAI encourages all interested individuals to register promptly and secure their participation.
Airline Bookings and Logistics
Mr. Paras Lakhia, another Managing Committee Member of TAAI, will oversee the airline bookings. TAAI has successfully negotiated pricing with four esteemed partner airlines: Sri Lankan Airlines, Air India, IndiGo, and Air Vistara. Delegates can benefit from competitive rates and reliable service when making their travel arrangements.
Exciting Developments Await
In collaboration with the Sri Lankan Tourism Ministry, TAAI has submitted a request to the Honorable President of Sri Lanka for free visas for all convention delegates. This favourable initiative could potentially extend to all Indian tourists visiting Sri Lanka, further fostering bilateral relations between the two nations. Mrs Mayal commends the unwavering dedication and commitment displayed by Mr Harin Fernando, the dynamic Sri Lankan Tourism Minister, and the hospitable team of SLAITO in hosting TAAI for a successful convention. She assures delegates that there will be surprising elements throughout the event, making it an even more memorable experience.
The TAAI Convention in Colombo, Sri Lanka, is poised to be a transformative event, bringing together travel industry professionals from India and Sri Lanka. By transcending borders and embracing collaboration, TAAI aims to shape the future of the travel industry, empower its members, and strengthen the ties between the two countries. Attendees can look forward to engaging sessions, enriching discussions, and unforgettable experiences that will leave a lasting impact. Register online starting May 28 and be a part of this remarkable journey to transform lives through travel.
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