MATATO and MMPRC hosts US travel advisors for an exclusive familiarization trip in the Maldives. (Photo/MATATO)
Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO), along with the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) and the Maldives Mission in New York, has recently arranged an exclusive familiarization trip to enhance the Maldives' presence in the competitive US travel market.
The familiarization trip brought together a select group of travel advisors from Intele Travel, the largest and most well-established travel host agency in the United States, providing them with an exclusive firsthand experience of the Maldives' unmatched beauty, luxury, and hospitality.
The familiarization trip offered the travel advisors a rare opportunity to discover some of the Maldives’ renowned properties, such as Stone Hotels K. Dhiffushi, Villa Resorts, and Diamonds Athuruga Resort and Spa. The properties were chosen for their diverse offerings, allowing the delegates to experience a full spectrum of the Maldives’ tourism offerings, from local island culture to luxurious beachfront resorts, overwater villas, and exclusive services. The advisors also had the chance to explore the Maldives’ rich marine life, pristine beaches, and vibrant local culture—key attractions for US travelers.
Turkish Airlines partnered as the official airline sponsor to ensure the delegation’s travel was comfortable and convenient, offering the highest standards for their journey to the Maldives. This seamless travel experience allowed the participants to focus entirely on the Maldives’ destinations and services. Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA) and the Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) also supported the logistics for the group’s trip.
A notable highlight of the fam trip was a special networking event in Malé, where local travel agents, tour operators, and key industry players had the opportunity to engage directly with Intele Travel’s travel advisors. This event played a crucial role in knowledge exchange and collaboration, fostering partnerships between the Maldives’ tourism industry and the US market. It also assisted in strengthening Maldives' efforts to enhance its appeal to US travelers and build stronger relationships with US travel professionals.
US remains one of the Maldives' top 10 source markets, with substantial growth potential. As more American travelers seek exclusive and luxurious experiences, the Maldives is increasingly becoming a top choice for those seeking world-class resorts, exceptional service, and breathtaking natural beauty. The US market is a central focus of the Maldives' long-term tourism strategy, and this fam trip is just the first of many initiatives aimed at positioning the Maldives as a must-visit destination for American travelers.
MATATO and MMPRC are collaborating to ensure the Maldives stays at the forefront of the US market by building stronger relationships with travel agents, highlighting the wide range of experiences on offer, and promoting sustainable tourism practices.
In addition to the familiarization trip, MATATO and MMPRC have developed plans for further joint initiatives aimed at boosting the Maldives' presence in the US market. Their goal is to foster stronger relationships with US travel advisors, tour operators, and consumers, increasing awareness of the Maldives' diverse offerings and positioning it as the perfect destination for luxury getaways, honeymoons, family vacations, and adventure-filled trips.