THE Monaco Government Tourist and Convention Authority (MGTCA) has introduced The Passport to Monaco programme in India as part of its plan to grow Indian arrivals by 25 per cent.
Rajeev Nangia, associate director of Monaco’s marketing representative in India, Trac Representations, said the programme consists of a folder of coupons that grants free entry to the principality’s main attractions and museums. This includes the Exotic Garden, the Oceanographic Museum and the prince of Monaco’s collection of antique cars. Useful information about the destination and its best shops and restaurants are also included.
“The programme is available for travel consultants to offer their clients on a minimum two nights’ stay in Monaco,” said Nangia.
MGTCA is also looking to collaborate with the Indian travel trade on fam trips, workshops and seminars, gunning for luxury travel, MICE and weddings.
Monaco is committing 30 per cent of its tourism promotion budget to BRIC countries.
Patrick Medecin, Monaco’s ambassador to India, said: “India is increasingly becoming a niche strategic market for us and we are witnessing a good growth in the number of tourists visiting Monaco from India.
“Our objective is to showcase Monaco as one of Europe’s finest destinations. It is also essential to emphasise that despite its image, five-star hotel rooms in Monaco are generally at least 30 per cent cheaper than hotels in London and Paris. Therefore, Monaco is an affordable luxury destination.”
Tri Star Holidays director, Ankur Khanna, said: “Monaco has an aura of luxury, glamour and exclusivity that appeals to high-end Indian clients. With such emphatic promotion, I expect both leisure and MICE business to grow in 2013 and beyond.”
