New Frontiers Award nominates 10 destinations
Reed Travel Exhibitions, the organisers of Arabian Travel Market, the
region's premier travel and tourism exhibition, has announced that ten
destinations have been nominated for this year's New Frontiers Award.
Now in its third year, the prestigious award consists of US$10,000
worth of complimentary exhibition space at Arabian Travel Market 2009,
which will be given to the destination that has made an outstanding
contribution to tourism development in the face of overwhelming
adversity.
The destinations were chosen considering a number of decisive factors
such as their utilisation of aid packages, support from local and
national government, tangible efforts of recovery and the sheer
determination of human spirit. California; Peru; Greece; Bangladesh;
India; Pakistan; Nicaragua; China; Mozambique and Vietnam are all making
tremendous strides after suffering from either man-made or natural
disasters.
Chairman, Reed Travel Exhibitions Tom Nutley said, "The concept for
the award was borne out of the remarkable achievements that have been
observed over the last three years. The way in which some destinations
have recovered from overwhelming disasters was humbling and awe
inspiring. In recognition of those extraordinary efforts in the face of
such adversity, we wanted to salute their exceptional achievements.
The reward is both pragmatic and a valuable contribution to increase
their marketing efforts still further."
Judges are currently reviewing the nominations to select three
destinations that will go forward to the final round. The panel of
judges is made up of a cross section of industry professionals.
Last year's winner the Mexican resort of Cancun was honoured for its
remarkable recovery and positive contribution to tourism development in
the face of the overwhelming devastation caused by Hurricane Wilma in
October 2005.
With considerable support from local state and federal government
plus international aid agencies such as the Red Cross, they have rebuilt
the battered coastline and improved the resort's shattered economy. The
effort has resulted in tourism figures fast approaching former levels.
This year's recipient will be announced during a special awards
ceremony at the Arabian Travel Market's annual exhibitors' party, which
will be held on May 6, at the Grand Hyatt Dubai. |