The German National Tourist Office (GNTO), India has witnessed a 10% increase in overnights from India during January to August 2015, and is hopeful to close the year with an overall 10% increase. Romit Theophilus, Director – Sales and Marketing, GNTO India, said, “From January to August 2015, we have recorded a 10% increase as compared to the previous year. By the year end, we are looking forward to 700,000 overnights by Indian travellers, a 10% increase over 2014.” Theophilus added that they plan to launch the ‘Destination Germany – Online Training Program’ for Indian tour operators by mid next year.
After conducting the roadshow in New Delhi, Bengaluru and Ahmedabad, the event will be held at The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, Mumbai on November 27. The roadshow comprises 14 suppliers, with Accor, IHG and Rail Europe being the new partners.
“The main theme for 2016 is ‘Natural Landscapes – Holidays in the Heart of Nature’ highlighting the sheer diversity of holidays and activities on offer in Germany’s rural regions, including national parks, biosphere reserves and nature parks. Other campaigns next year include the 500th Anniversary of the German Beer Purity Law, the 800th Anniversary of the famous Dresdner Kreuzchor (boys’ choir) and Luther – the 500th Anniversary of the Reformation, which culminates in 2017,” Theophilus elaborated.
GNTO India has increased promotional activities on social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. We are focusing on India-centric communication through all channels, he said. Going forward, we look forward to promote Germany as a nature destination.
Hans Jorg Hadbawnik, Regional Director – India & Russia, Stuttgart Marketing exclaimed that the South West Germany (SWG) has recorded 173,000 Indian travellers to the region, a 22.6% increase from January to October this year. They stay for an average of 5.8 day per visit and spend about EUR 200 per day.
Gregor Gosciniak, Head – Marketing, Cologne Tourist Board, added that India is a promising growth market for them. Despite the current weakness of the Indian rupee, the market is expected to grow in the medium to long term.
Wolfgang Gartner, Head – International Marketing, Visit Saxony, revealed that there is a slight increase in overnights from India but the number of people coming opting for a day-long trip is rising. The majority of groups are coming via Prague and Berlin, he said.
The 42nd edition of GTM (Germany Travel Mart) will be hosted by the GNTB in conjunction with Magdeburg Marketing Kongress und Tourismus GmbH, Magdeburg from April 17-19, 2016.
