Tourism Breaking News
The Travel Agents Federation of India (TAFI) has opened registrations for its upcoming TAFI Convention 2025 that will be held in the Ninh Binh province in Northern Vietnam from 17 to 20 January. The theme of the convention is ‘Tourism for Tomorrow: Protecting the Planet.’ Elaborating on the choice of destination and the theme, Ajay Prakash, TAFI President, said “Indian tourism is booming. While inbound numbers are still below pre-Covid levels, outbound and domestic tourism are breaking all records. But an industry that is totally people-centric and which thrives on the natural beauty and the amazing diversity in the world also has a duty to protect the Planet. Sustainability has gone beyond being a mere catchword, it is the single most important need today for the tourism industry and if we are to rethink our business models and think beyond profit, the move has to come from within the industry. As the leading travel association in the country TAFI will take the lead in sensitizing our members who in turn will guide their clients towards Responsible Tourism practices.”
Anil Kalsi, Vice President added “The Provincial government of Ninh Binh has been extremely supportive, and the Department of Tourism has laid out the red carpet for TAFI delegates.” Speaking about the format of the convention, Abbas Moiz, National General Secretary, adds, “TAFI is offering members a three-night convention at an incredible price of Rs. 15,999/- per person on twin sharing. We have also negotiated great prices with DMCs for some exciting pre- and post-convention tours. Our members can contact them directly to take advantage of the special prices. Similarly, members are free to choose between the various airlines offering direct or connecting services to Vietnam and take a stop enroute.”
Hitank Shah, National Treasurer clarified that the Convention package starts and concludes at Hanoi airport. “We will have shuttles from Hanoi airport to Ninh Binh from early in the morning on 17 Jan until midday and again back from Ninh Binh to Hanoi airport on the 20th to facilitate our members arriving and departing on different flights.”
Seeraj Sabharwal, Chairman of the Convention committee, shared that by mentioning the various options for additional tours that the delegates can take to Da Nang and the Bana Hills, or a cruise in Halong bay, or a visit to the lovely beach at Ho Tram. Participation is restricted to official agency representatives and their spouses, TAFI is restricting numbers and will close registrations at 400 delegates, the Early Bird offer closes on 6th December.
Message from Le Quang Bien, Consul General of Vietnam in Mumbai:
“We are honored to welcome the TAFI Convention 2025 in the beautiful province of Ninh Binh, a destination that truly represents the natural and cultural heritage of Vietnam. This event reflects the deepening ties between Vietnam and India, as tourism plays a vital role in strengthening our relationship. We greatly value the efforts of TAFI in promoting lesser-explored destinations like Ninh Binh to Indian travelers, who are increasingly choosing Vietnam for their journeys.
The theme, ‘Tourism for Tomorrow: Protecting the Planet,’ aligns perfectly with Vietnam’s commitment to sustainable tourism and preserving our environment for future generations. We look forward to showcasing the unique experiences that Vietnam has to offer and welcoming TAFI delegates to discover the charm and hospitality of Ninh Binh. Together, we can inspire a new wave of responsible tourism that benefits both our people and the planet.”
