NTO
Maldives to celebrate Golden Jubilee year in 2022 News Desk
T
he year 2022 marks a milestone for Maldives as the island country is set to celebrate 50 years of its globally recognised glorious tourism offerings. Tourism Ministry is in discussion with the industry stakeholders to plan the activities for a grand celebration. While Maldives initiated the countdown for the anniversary on 1st January, 2021, Ministry of Tourism unveiled the logo for ‘Golden Jubilee Year of Maldives Tourism 2022’ in March 2021. Commenting on the marketing strategies adopted to reach out to a wider Indian audience in 2021-22, and hinting that the temporary travel restrictions imposed on Indians will be eased soon, Thoyyib Mohamed, MD, MMPRC said, “Due to the Covid, we had to re-strategize our marketing activities in order to accommodate the current trends. We studied consumers’ behaviour and planned our efforts accordingly for the coming year. Undoubtedly, India is an important market for us. It has always been one of the top source markets for Maldives.” “Our strategy for India is to greatly focus on increasing visibility of Maldives in the
India market and to showcase it as a ‘Safe Haven’ for holiday makers through activities directly targeted at consumers and travel trade. Some of these activities include digital campaigns, online and offline fairs, roadshows and virtual events,” said Thoyyib. “This year, we will also work on reaching as many regions as possible within the India market via these platforms. Regarding the temporary restrictions imposed on Indians travelling to the Maldives, I would like to say that we are optimistic about an ease in restrictions soon,” he added. Maldives is one of the most popular and desired tourist destinations around the world. It is famous not only for its white sandy beaches and crystal clear turquoise water, but also for its unique ‘one island one resort’ concept that offers guests a safe and private holiday option. Whether it is the adrenaline-filled experience of diving with the sharks or spending a romantic vacation with your significant other, Maldives is the perfect holiday destination for everyone. From relaxation and wellness options to adventure and culinary experiences, here, you will be spoilt for choice! Amidst the global pandemic, Maldives gained immense traction among worldwide
travellers for its uniquely located islands. In the month of January 2021 alone, it recorded a 14 per cent increase in tourist arrivals as opposed to the previous year. According to the Ministry of Tourism, 10,004 arrivals were from 1st to 4th February, 2021, with a daily average of 2,501 arrivals. Among Russia and Ukraine, India has consistently remained one of the top source markets for Maldives. Although, Maldives is perceived as a luxury destination across the globe, over the past few years, it has managed to diversify its tourist offerings thus, creating a shift in its global image. Currently, it has 159 resorts with different star categories that cater to everyone, 552 guesthouses which are located in local islands, perfect for the budget travellers and those seeking to experience local culture and cuisine. And, 130 liveaboards that cater to a comprehensive range of accommodation facilities on board.
Tel Aviv Pride Parade received over 100,000 participants News Desk
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ver 100,000 people gathered along Tel Aviv's seafront promenade on June 25th, 2021 to march in one of the largest pride parades held worldwide since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Tel Aviv Pride Parade marked the climax of the annual Pride Month celebrations in the city, taking place every June since 1998 and attracting hundreds of thousands of Israelis and foreign visitors who join the citywide festivities every June. Tel Aviv Pride Parade, widely recognised as one of the world's leading LGBTQ+ events and the largest event of its kind in the Middle East, returned in its mass-participant format courtesy of Israel's high vaccination rates and lifting of all restrictions on public and private gatherings.
10 July 2021
Ron Huldai, Mayor of Tel Aviv-Yafo: "I am delighted to be here and celebrate with you again! LGBTQ+ rights are not simply a matter for the gay community. They are a matter of democracy and humanity. I wish everyone a wonderful Pride Month. Let's always meet on such happy occasions!" Sharon Landes-Fischer, CEO of Tel Aviv Global & Tourism: "Tel Aviv Pride came roaring back, reminding the world that our city is the leading LGBTQ+ destination in the Middle East. This year's parade had added significance, with tens of thousands reunited as we return to normal following the COVID-19 pandemic. We are already looking forward to June 2022 when all our friends from overseas will join us along the parade route again. See you soon in Tel Aviv-Yafo."
Pride festivities continued through the weekend, with tens of thousands of partygoers joining major after-parties, including one featuring internationally celebrated DJ and gay icon Offer Nissim. This year, the slogan ‘A Community That Creates Change’ has been at the center of the Pride Month events, born of the desire to strengthen social involvement and shared activities within LGBTQ+ community groups and wider society.
