Now in its 8th year, ‘Where Else’ conference is the official tourism conference held annually by the Israel Ministry of Tourism for the world travel fraternity. The week-long convention from February 7-13, 2019 was attended by 80 travel agents from 18 countries. With a grand opening ceremony in Tel Aviv, senior members of the tourism industry from around the world participated in tours of key sites in Israel with support from the regional Tourism Associations, Hotels Association and the Israel Incoming Tour Operators Association.
Israel is a multicultural destination with a perfect mix of modernity and history, culture and religion, innovation and conservation. The purpose of the conference was to expose attendees to the travel brands in Israel alongside the country’s recreation, entertainment and leisure choices. Speaking about the familiarization trip, Hassan Madah, Director, Israel Ministry of Tourism – India and Philippines said, “Israel is currently witnessing tremendous momentum in tourism with a record of 4.12 million tourists in 2018. Arrivals from India have also increased to 70,800 visitors last year making it the 12th source market for the destination. Bearing this in mind, it was imperative for us to showcase Israel to the travel trade of India through our biggest annual tourism conference in Israel. Travellers today are evolved and informed and are constantly scouting for newer and niche experiences. Through the conference and FAM, it gave us an opportunity to display varied tourism offerings of the country while connecting agents to key stakeholders in Israel”.
In attendance were 6 top travel agents from India such as Odyssey Tours and Travels, A Travel Duet – Celebrating Togetherness, Bigbreaks.com, Gainwell Enterprises Pvt. Ltd., Quintessential Vacations and Swastika Holiday Solutions accompanied by Mr. Hassan Madah - Director, Israel Ministry of Tourism, India and Philippines. The group explored the culturally rich Old City of Jerusalem, home to the world's three largest religions with its holy sites and breath-taking biblical landscapes as well as emerging culinary, art and nightlife scenes.
Furthermore, they visited the modern city of Tel Aviv, charming town of Jaffa, Dead Sea and Masada region followed by a tour of Herzliya in the central coast of Israel. In addition to this, business meetings were held between the Indian delegates and Israeli wholesalers and hoteliers.