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Namibia to host 2013 Adventure World Travel Summit

Namibia has been chosen as the destination to host the Adventure World Travel Summit in 2013, from 26 to 31 October 2013, writes Jean Haupt.

Held on an annual basis, the Adventure Travel World Summit (ATWS) brings together decision makers of the global tourism industry, as well as travel enthusiasts keeping abreast of current tourism trends.

According to the organisers of the summit, the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA) “Namibia offers one of the most compelling success stories in tourism today, one of joint venture tourism and partnerships between communal conservancies and tourism enterprises,” said ATTA President Shannon Stowell. “Namibia’s model of conservancies, joint venture partnerships and conservation is a model that we should put on display. It’s a story that should be told. I’d previously heard the discussions, watched the films and I still didn’t understand it fully it until I came and saw it in action. Our delegates are sure to gain immense insights from their experiences in Namibia.”

For the first time ever, the ATWS will be hosted in Africa which will result in not only creating awareness of this diverse travel destination, but will also yield positive returns to the Namibian economy in terms of increased tourism bookings and future arrivals, with direct economic impacts for Namibia as host of this international event. This event can also further improve the diplomatic positioning of brand Namibia as a stable, forward-looking, progressive country open for visitors and investment alike, by showcasing its unique tourism offering coupled with a steady and established business sector.

While Swakopmund is the designated summit venue, the official opening is planned for Namibia’s capital city, Windhoek. The conference is set to provide an excellent and extensive marketing platform for Namibia, as the conference will attract tourism executives from around the world who specialise in adventure tourism which includes nature, wildlife, volunteer tourism, adventure sports and ecotourism.

Pre- and post-tour options are definitely worth considering for ATWS delegates. From the sun-kissed dunes of Sossusvlei, complete with hot air balloon rides providing breathtaking views over the southern Namib Desert, to adventure activities for adrenalin junkies in Swakopmund in the form of quad biking and sand boarding or even some spectacular game viewing in the famous Etosha region, Namibia is a land worth exploring. Visit Namibia’s World Heritage at Twyfelfontein with its massive open-air art gallery, consisting of delicate rock art drawings; or take the opportunity to boost your knowledge of Namibia’s heritage and culture with a visit to Windhoek’s museums, monuments and art galleries.

For more information visit www.namibiatourism.com.na or www.adventuretravel.biz

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