The forthcoming annual convention of the Travel Agents Federation of India (TAFI) has been scheduled from 22nd – 25th February, 2015. The host country this year will be the historically, spiritually and culturally vibrant country of Israel. Israel is nestled between Europe, Asia and Africa and lies at the eastern end of the Mediterranean Sea. The country known as the cradle of three great religions i.e. Judaism, Christianity and Islam is blessed with a rich and ancient history and culture. It is known for its natural beauty which comprises of exotic beaches, mountains, valleys and deserts. It also boats of a pulsating nightlife and the famous Dead Sea.
Talking about hosting Indian travel trade in Israel, Mr Hassan Madah, Director – India, Israel Ministry of Tourism, says, “India is an important market for us and with an intention of attracting Indian travelers, the Israel Ministry of Tourism opened its office in Mumbai in 2014. The Ministry of Tourism along with the hospitality industry of Israel is working to meet the needs of the Indian traveler including their culinary requirements. We found the TAFI convention a great platform to showcase Israel to the Indian travel agents and are keen to welcome the esteemed delegates to the country. There are several misconceptions and perceptions that people have about Israel and through the convention we hope all the myths regarding the destination will be cleared. When the travel trade and media visits and explores the country they will understand that Israel is more than a pilgrimage destination. It has a lot to offer to the leisure, honeymoon and MICE traveler as well.”
Mr Zakkir Ahmed, President, TAFI, adds, “TAFI has always believed in being a path breaker and under this guiding principle this year we have chosen Jerusalem as the venue for the annual convention. We felt Israel is a destination that should be explored by Indians because it has diverse attractions and charm. We have received letters of endorsement and support from the Israel Ministry of Tourism, the mayor of Jerusalem and the Indian ambassador to Israel assuring us and promising a heartfelt welcome.”
TAFI along with Israel Ministry of Tourism has invited 600 delegates from travel trade and media to register for the convention. The convention will also consist of pre/post FAM tours of Israel. The pre convention FAM tours will be held from 19th – 22nd February while the post convention FAM tours are scheduled for 25th – 28th February, 2015. Both tours will include itineraries that will showcase Israel’s exotic and diverse charm and allow delegates to explore places like Tel Aviv, Dead Sea, Nazareth, Tiberias and much more. In order to experience the wonders of Israel, TAFI has created an attractive package price of INR 59,999 PP on twin share for its delegates for 6 nights which will include 3 days of a pre/post FAM tour offered by Israel Tourism and 3 nights of the convention. The package cost includes return airfare, visa, accommodation, meals, transfers and activities mentioned on itineraries.
Israel Ministry of Tourism will issue a group paper visa for all delegates who register before 27th January, 2015 and there will be no entry / exit stamp on their passport. The delegates can choose to fly either on Turkish, Elal or Air Arabia. Extension of stay in Israel or stopover at Turkey is also possible for delegates who are flying on Turkish Airlines while Jordan stop-over is possible for delegates flying through Amman.
The convention will comprise of B2B sessions to be held at ICC Jerusalem from 22 – 24th February 2015 which will bring buyers, sellers and key speakers of travel industry together to exchange ideas and build business for the future.