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Promote an emerging destination

The 8th edition of the International Tourism fair Madagascar took the 13 to the 16 June to the center of the Conference International Ivato (Antananarivo). This exhibition, which is part of the calendar of the "vanilla island" is to promote the destination while the Government intends to give priority to tourism in the context of the economic development of the country.

300 exhibitors, showcase of Malagasy tourism, welcomed 14.000 visitors to an exhibition space of 30.000m², among which 60 Travel agencies and tour operators invited by the ONTM (National Office of tourism of Madagascar) who had been able to discover the country at eductours. The presence of these professionals is essential to demonstrate that it is possible to visit the country in peace.

A severe lack of financial resources

« To haul Madagascar to the rank of major destination, many efforts remain to be undertaken including the increase in the number of hotel establishments, the diversification of tourism offers and activities, the allocation of a budget for the promotion, the development of access to transport infrastructure, but also the development of national tourism », explains the Minister of transport, tourism and meteorology, Joël Randriamandranto during the International Tourism fair Madagascar. To this statement, should be added back to a perfect security. International air links opening can take place only after an effective opening of the sky, far from assured.

One of the major obstacles to the achievement of the objectives of affluence (It is pointed out 500.000 tourists on the horizon 2023) remains the weakness of the budget allocated to the ONTM. Just € 450,000 (which only 35.000 from the Ministry of supervision) is near 30 times less than for example Mauritius.

The ONTM nevertheless multiplies initiatives to position the country on the international stage of the recognized worldwide destinations. The new leadership of the country must now associate their intentions with actions by financing the actions of promotion up to the expectations.

Coco Lodge Majunga, was present with its activities and services: Hôtel★★★, Gourmet restaurant, Tour operator, Rental of 4 × 4 with driver guide and event organizer (conferences, seminars, workshops, lunches/dinners with themes, wedding, anniversary, boy-girl stag). Coco Lodge TO also organizes these circuits and many others such as the caves of Anjohibe, Park National Ankarafantsika, Sacred Lake, Katsepy lighthouse, …