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Adequate Budgeting Is Essential To Overcome Challenges In Promoting Maldives Tourism – MATATO

Chinese tourist walk on foot bridge over the sea in Maldives on Jan. 16, 2012. More and more Chinese tourists go to Maldives for holidays. MATATO
MATATO - has been apprehensive continually over the importance of destination marketing followed by governments decision

Following the proposed government’s budget for 2017 and it’s submission to the parliament, Maldives Association for Travel Agents and Tour Operators has been apprehensive continually over the importance of destination marketing.

In November, the first-of-its-kind Travel Conference organized by MATATO included a whole segment, which contributed to destination marketing with expert speakers from PATA, CNN and TTG Asia. The association lobbied to the Parliament, relevant government bodies and MMPRC in paying attention to the immense growth of bed capacity; the openings of over twenty new resorts, with the addition to the increasing number of guesthouses. Besides the Parliament, the association also approached other tourism NGOs in their efforts to raise concern.

As per the recent studies by World Travel Monitor that reflects UNWTO reports, it was indicated that many Asian destinations reported double-digit growth. Countries such as Vietnam (+36 percent), the Republic of Korea (+34 percent), Japan (+24 percent) and Sri Lanka (+15 percent) had a noticeable increase in tourist arrivals in the first three-quarters of this year. Chinese tourists traveling out of China has a growth of 18% with an average of 11% outbound travel growth from various Asian countries.

The last arrival statistics released by the Ministry of Tourism in October this year revealed the short growth rate of 3.6% in Maldives as compared to 2015, and the Chinese market decline with a significant 10.6%.

It is believed by many sources that for 2017, the Ministry of Tourism has received less than 25% of the requested budget, which is significantly less compared to this year and the last. It is the fact that over two-thirds of the economy relies on the tourism industry in the country that is why MATATO presses on this issue gravely. Competing destinations such as Sri Lanka, Mauritius and Seychelles have marketing budgets that would surpass the budget set for Maldives by ten folds.

MATATO regards it crucial that the Ministry of Tourism is given an adequate budget by the government in order to meet their goal of destination marketing. This is necessary given the challenges of regional competition from emerging beach destinations and the PR challenges the destination has faced recently.

As a highlight in their press release, MATATO stated that their intention in taking part in various travel trade fairs independently is not to substitute MMPRCs efforts but to compliment them. They believe it is critical for Maldives to be showcased on the global tourism stage. This issue can have serious consequences if the budgeting is continuously ignored, causing an eventual decline in arrivals. MATATO is concerned that this may lead to poor ROI for investors in the tourism industry.

STR, global leading market research, and analysis firm reported in Third Quarter of 2016, that the reporting for Maldives is decreasing across the three key performance metrics: Occupancy, ADR (Average Daily Rate) and RevPAR (revenue per available room).

Requests have been made to the MMPRC about the travel trade shows in January, February and March, but they go unattended as December passes by. MATATO expresses concerns about travel plans needing time to arrange for various stakeholders with planning flights, accommodation, and logistics. Such inconvenient last minute planning risks the Maldives’ brand presence at traditional travel shows in Spain, India, Germany, Switzerland and Turkey.

MATATO considers marketing as one of the few expenses that have a direct Return on Investment. Their only concern is to increase tourists for Maldives and in effect, attain more tax income for the government directly via TGST, Green Tax and indirectly from a more stimulated local economy.

(icon photo source- http://travelcentremaldives.com/maldives-blog/tourist-arrivals-to-maldives-increased-in-may\\ )

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Lily Beach Resort & Spa Nominated for Prestigious World Travel Awards 2025

Lily Beach Resort & Spa Nominated for Prestigious World Travel Awards 2025

Lily Beach Resort & Spa, located in the Maldives, proudly announces its nominations for three prestigious honors at the 2025 World Travel Awards. Specifically, the resort has earned recognition in the categories of Indian Ocean’s Leading Family Resort 2025, Maldives’ Leading All-Inclusive Resort 2025, and Maldives’ Leading Family Resort 2025. These nominations celebrate Lily Beach for its unwavering commitment to exceptional service, top-tier luxury, and family-friendly offerings, making it one of the top destinations in the Maldives.

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One of the resort’s most notable features is its renowned Platinum Plan, which stands as one of the most comprehensive all-inclusive packages in the region. This plan offers a variety of premium dining options, top-shelf beverages, exciting excursions, and a wide range of water activities. As a result, guests can enjoy a carefree and indulgent experience, with the Platinum Plan providing both variety and value. Consequently, it sets a benchmark for luxury all-inclusive offerings in the Maldives.

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For families, Lily Beach provides the ideal getaway, offering a perfect balance of togetherness and privacy. The resort features spacious multi-bedroom accommodations, such as the Beach Residence and Beach Family Villa, which allow families to stay close while still enjoying personal space. Furthermore, the Turtles Kids’ Club provides a fun-filled environment with supervised activities, while adults can unwind in adults-only spaces, such as AQVA, the overwater bar and restaurant. In addition to this, the resort offers a gym and tennis court, giving guests plenty of opportunities to stay active and enjoy family-friendly recreation.

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Dining at Lily Beach is also an experience in itself. Guests can indulge in everything from international buffet selections at Lily Maa to Asian fusion cuisine at the overwater Tamarind restaurant. Not only do the diverse dining options cater to a wide range of tastes, but the spectacular ocean views and the warm hospitality of the Maldivian staff also contribute to an unforgettable culinary journey.

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Moreover, for those seeking rest and rejuvenation, the Tamara Spa offers a peaceful sanctuary with a variety of healing treatments. Set over the water, the spa provides an ideal setting for guests to unwind with restorative massages. Additionally, Lily Beach’s Wellness Week with Ali Young, taking place this November, offers a unique opportunity for guests to engage in a transformative wellness retreat. This seven-day program blends ancient sound healing techniques with the Maldives’ tranquil environment, helping guests rejuvenate both body and mind.

A Commitment to Excellence and Luxury

These nominations reflect Lily Beach’s consistent dedication to excellence, further cementing its reputation as a premier destination for families, couples, and luxury travelers. Whether it’s indulgence, adventure, or relaxation, the resort offers something for everyone, and these nominations only highlight its exceptional offerings.

Voting for the 2025 World Travel Awards is now open, and Lily Beach Resort & Spa invites its guests and supporters to cast their votes and help secure these well-deserved accolades. Click here to vote

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