Alice Kanterian

Egypt has also been actively developing new destinations and upgrading travelers' experience at archaeological sites by establishing new destinations and improved, faster, and environmentally friendly ways to commute to key destinations such as Luxor. For example, in the fourth quarter of 2025/first quarter of 2026, Hurghada and Luxor will be connected by a high-speed train.

 

Transformative reform and infrastructure development

 

The Egyptian tourism industry is going through a transformative reform towards deregulation that paves the way for new investors and redefines the relationship between government and the private sector. Combined with the reform, Egypt's strategic deregulation efforts and allocating 22% of GDP to infrastructure development over the past seven years are paying off, demonstrating its resolute commitment to strengthening the country's global reputation in tourism.

 

 

 

with Anasha Campbell, Minister of Tourism of Nicaragua at the 8 am press conference at the Plaza Hotel in Berlin

Nicaragua

Anasha Campbell's mission is to showcase the unique Creole culture, stunning landscapes and an authentic way of living which are the hallmarks of Nicaragua. Her country is largely unknown as a tourist destination. 

Nicaragua is probably the most diverse of all Central American countries and it has it all: gorgeous Spanish-colonial architecture, a wealth of indigenous culture, idyllic white-sand beaches beneath swaying palms on Caribbean islands, climbable volcanoes, world-class surf beaches and huge swathes of protected jungle, home to numerous bird and animal species.

Anasha Campbell, Minister of Tourism gave a passionate press conference at the Plaza Hotel highlighting the diversity of the landscape of Nicaragua.

The Embassy of Mexico in Berlin invited the international press for an early morning presentation on 07.03 and in the focus was the city of La Paz www.golapaz.com and Baja California Sur. 

The main attraction in La Paz is certainly the opportunity to swim with the majestic whale sharks. Not only is this dangerous but ethically not suitable to touch these beautiful creatures.

But there is much more to explore in La Paz. Dolphins, sea lions aswell as manta rays populate the waters around La Paz. Mountain biking, golfing, kitesurfing or just chilling on the beach are among the other experiences that make a holiday in this region unforgettable, if you have a few free weeks and the opportunity to discover Mexico from this new side.

Minister of Tourism and Sports Nikolina Brnjac with Ambassador Mr. Gordan Bakota atthe Embassy of Croatia in Berlin

Croatia

Many have to know Croatia as a popular filming location, where hits such as "Game of Thrones" and "Mamma Mia" were filmed.

Croatia is a popular tourist destination, visited by millions of tourists from all over the world. The beauty of nature, farytale mountains, exciting history, rich culture amd heritage, delicious and fragrant food and friendliness of the people there, have turned this Balkan country with 50 habited islands into an attractive travel destination. 

Croatia opted for a reception hosted by the Minister of Tourism and Sports Nikolina Brnjac at the Embassy of Croatia in Berlin on the day of the official opening, on 04.03.

Leipzig/Germany 

This was also the case of the German city Leipzig Leipzig International - Stadt Leipzig which traditionally also invites the press on the day prior the start of the ITB to a restaurant in the afternoon getting in competition with the oficial opening, this year highlighling the Oman as the Host Country.

Other two embassies, opted for an evening reception the day after on 05.03, the first day of the ITB. India and Uzbekistan promoted their touristic highlights followed by folcloric music and dance.

Uzbekistan 

In the case of Uzbekistan, The Uzbek delegation was presented by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of Uzbekistan, SUE "National PR Centre", JSC "Uzbekistan Airways", the management of the newly established tourist complex "Silk Road Samarkand", and a number of travel companies of Uzbekistan.

Uzbekistan has been regularly participating in the annual International Tourism Exhibition ITB Berlin since 2009 until today.

Besides introducing the rich historical and cultural heritage of our country, ancient monuments and cities of Uzbekistan worth visiting, colorful traditions and national Uzbek costumes to the international audience, new tourist destinations and tourist products of Uzbekistan were also presented to visitors and participants of the fair and at the reception which took place at the Embassy where I enjoyed the best plov I had since the last ITB, the authentic Uzbek plov cooked by the embassy's own chef was served. And while I was running late, running from one embassy to the other and arrived towards the closing of the Uzbek reception, I had the great pleasure of enjoying the plov with the diplomatic corp of the Embassy of Uzbekistan.

India

And last but not least Indian food from the best Indian restaurant in Berlin Swadesh (www.swadesh-restaurant-berlin.de) was served at the Embassy of India. 

Nobody less than Mr. Parvathaneni Harish, Ambassador of India to Germany inaugurated the Maharashtra stand which attracted significant attention from international travel professionals, media representatives, and potential visitors. Adorned with captivating imagery and informative displays, the stall effectively showcased Maharashtra’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and vibrant attractions.

The Maharashtra Tourism delegation led by Dr. Bhagwantrao Namdeo Patil, Director, Directorate of Tourism-Maharashtra, and the co-exhibitors engaged in meaningful discussion with industry stakeholders, showcasing Maharashtra’s diverse cultural heritage and tourism offerings, the delegation emphasized the stated commitment to sustainable tourism practices and its unique blend of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and cultural experiences.

In line with the event’s theme of “Pioneer the Transition in Travel & Tourism. Together.”, Maharashtra Tourism highlighted its commitment to sustainable tourism practices. This resonated with environmentally conscious attendees, showcasing the state’s efforts toward responsible tourism development.

Ladakh /India

Ladakh is one of the most sparsely populated regions in India. Its culture and history are closely related to those of Tibet. The region  is administered by India as a union territory and constitutes an eastern portion of the larger Kashmi region that has been the subject of a dispute between India and Pakistan since 1947 and China  since 1959. Ladakh is bordered by the Tibet Autonomous Region to the east, the Indian State of Himachal Pradesh  to the south, the Indian states of Jammu and Kashmir to the east, the Indian states Jammu and Kashmir and the Pakistan region Gilgit-Baltistan to the west and borders with China in the north. It extends from the Siachen Glacier to the north to the main Great Himalayas to the south. 

In the past, Ladakh gained importance from its strategic location at the crossroads of important trade routes,but as Chinese authorities closed the borders between Tibet Autonomous Region and Ladakh in the 1960s, international trade dwindled. Since 1974, the Government of India has successfully encouraged tourism in Ladakh as s Ladakh is strategically important.

I met Phuntsog Tundop from Ladakh at the ITB promoting with his company Kailash Expeditions www.kailashexpeditions.com the region of Ladakh as a touristic destination for adventurious travellers. Ladakh is unlike the rest of India, it is authentic, with unexpected moon-like landscapes, for travellers who are looking for untouched nature and very important! inspiration. Ladakh is famous for preserving the Buddhist culture and philosophy, wilde tracks along wich if you are lucky you can even spot the snow leopard.

My interview with Phuntsog Tundop:

Phuntsog Tundop von Kailash Expeditions im Interview mit Zauberhaft Reisen (youtube.com)

Alice Kanterian