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MVA in Taiwan’s largest travel fair
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Posted on Dec 02 2004
The Marianas Visitors Authority recently participated at the Taiwan International Travel Fair in Taipei. The MVA jointly promoted the destination and the new direct flights with Continental Airlines, Dai Ichi Hotel, and Century Tours.
The MVA delegation included acting deputy managing director Martin Duenas and marketing manager Wayne Pangelinan.
With over 114,000 visitors and over 740 exhibitor booths, this year’s show has increased by 23 percent overall from previous year.
“With the resurgence of flights from Continental airlines to the CNMI, the MVA will provide the necessary support to capture a fair market share of travelers from Taipei,” said Pangelinan. “Diversifying our travel markets is key to the survival of the islands’ tourism industry.”
Taiwan has a population of over 23 million. The traveling population is estimated to be a third of the total population.
“We see that this market has potential for the CNMI, and therefore, it is imperative that we build a strong partnership with the airline, travel agents and businesses on island to prepare for this new market, “said MVA managing director Vicky Benavente.
Continental Airlines sponsored a press conference in Taipei, Taiwan, in October, to announce the launch of the flights to Saipan. This resulted in immense coverage of the islands from the Taiwan media. Additionally, the MVA will be supporting the Taiwan direct flights with advertising, PR events, familiarization tours, and travel/trade shows.
The Northern Marianas has seen this market flourish in the early 90s with the first direct Continental flight service in 1992. With the service, the Northern Marianas welcomed more than 11,000 Taiwan visitors in 1992 and 1993. However, due to the termination of the direct service and the travel without US visa regulation, the Northern Marianas has since then seen a steady decline in this market. With the launch of Continental Airlines’ Taiwan/Saipan direct flights, the MVA is optimistic that it will see an increase in visitors from this market and the airlines.
