The Hindu Business Line : It's now focus EU for AP Tourism

AFTER creating a strong brand in the Indian tourism industry, Andhra Pradesh Tourism has now set its eyes on the global market, with a particular focus on European Union countries.

Besides deputing high-level delegations to leading tourism and travel expos like Moscow International Travel and Tourism Fair (MITTF-2004), the AP Tourism Department has decided to have physical presence abroad to woo tourists.

The department joined hands with the UK-based East West Corporation Ltd to open a marketing office in London. At a later stage, the department would expand to other European countries making the UK office as a hub.

"The London office will provide information on tourism potential of the State. It will also handle package tours and reservations," Ms Chandana Khan, Principle Secretary to Government of AP (Tourism), said.

The office was set up at Crystal Hall of IK London Residency run by East West Corporation.

Addressing a press conference here on Wednesday, she said the State stood a good chance of getting more tourists from Europe in general and the UK in particular.

At present, visitors from Europe comprised 31 per cent of total tourist inflows into the State. "Of this, the UK alone comprises 10 per cent, while Germany contributes 5 per cent," she said.

She said some European tourism players were operating chartered aircraft to Goa. "We are talking to the operators in Berlin to persuade them to extend their services to Andhra Pradesh. The tourists will have a variety fare, while the Government can earn foreign exchange," she said.

Incidentally, the State Government is sending a team lead by Capt. S N Reddy, Aviation Adviser to Government, to Goa to talk to international tourism operators.

A top official of the department said a team would take part in the international fair to be held in Dubai in May.

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