Maldives showcases luxury and sustainability at IFTM Top Resa 2024 to capture French market

The Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC/Visit Maldives) is showcasing the Maldives’ diverse holiday offerings at IFTM Top Resa 2024, a leading travel trade event taking place from September 17th to 19th in Paris, France. This event targets key travel buyers across various sectors, including business, leisure, and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions). A total of 35 representatives from 21 companies within the Maldivian tourism industry are participating alongside Visit Maldives.

The Maldives’ exhibition stand, spanning 121 square meters, highlights the destination’s distinctive combination of luxury, sustainability, and natural beauty. It features the country’s luxury resorts, vibrant marine life, and scenic landscapes, with a particular focus on honeymoon and underwater experiences. Visitors can also enjoy displays of local cuisine and promotional videos showcasing the Maldives’ breathtaking landscapes, eco-friendly initiatives, and world-class hospitality.

To engage with potential travel partners and agents, a range of activities are being organised at IFTM Top Resa 2024. These include pre-scheduled meetings with travel trade professionals, marketing agencies, and media representatives. Additionally, a raffle offering free holidays in the Maldives, sponsored by Brennia Kottefaru, Joy Island Maldives by The Cocoon Collection, and Robinson Noonu Maldives, is adding an interactive experience for attendees. Visitors can participate in the raffle by completing surveys at the Maldives stand. A French-language press pack is also being distributed to provide updated information to trade representatives and reinforce the Maldives’ strategic position in the French market.

As of August 2024, the Maldives has recorded 35,202 tourist arrivals from France, positioning the French market as the 8th largest for the country. MMPRC is focused on increasing arrivals in the luxury, family holiday, and sustainability segments through targeted promotional campaigns and marketing activities. One key initiative includes the global “Discover Maldives” Webinar Series, which initially launched with the French market in mind.

Looking ahead, the Maldives is planning additional efforts to strengthen its presence in France. These include a media familiarisation trip, the continuation of the “VeryChic” JMP campaign, the “Discover Maldives” Webinar Series, and participation in the prestigious ILTM Cannes event. Through these initiatives, Visit Maldives is dedicated to enhancing the Maldives’ brand in France and ensuring it remains a top destination for French travellers seeking the “Sunny Side of Life.”