Tourism Expo 2006 kicks off

THE eighth Namibia Tourism Expo will start tomorrow at the Windhoek Showgrounds.

The annual three-day expo is an interactive tourism and travel showcase that aims to promote the local tourism industry. The expo is also a showcase of what Namibia has to offer in terms of tourist attractions, accommodation and adventure travel.Speaking to The Namibian yesterday, expo organiser Glenda Manthe-Grobler said the show had helped promote the tourism industry as a vital economic sector in Namibia.This year, more than 150 exhibitors including several operators from the small and medium enterprise (SMEs) sector will showcase their wares and services to visitors and fellow exhibitors; at the same time having a networking platform.Although being generally a local event that attracts visitors and viewers from all over the world, Manthe-Grobler said other regional and international organisations had also taken an interest in the expo and would be part of the exhibition.This year outside showcasing will come from South Africa, Zimbabwe, India, Indonesia and Malaysia.Manthe-Grobler added that the expo had many facets which made it unique and interesting for participants and visitors alike.The popular Chefs-In-Action Theatre will share cooking tips and prepare tantalising meals, and the annual chefs’ competition will choose the best of them all.The expo will also feature events such as food and wine tasting, a 4×4 show, a photographic competition and exhibition, in addition to various other related events.Said Manthe-Grobler: “The expo represents different aspects and has everything for everyone.”The expo will be officially opened tomorrow.The expo is also a showcase of what Namibia has to offer in terms of tourist attractions, accommodation and adventure travel.Speaking to The Namibian yesterday, expo organiser Glenda Manthe-Grobler said the show had helped promote the tourism industry as a vital economic sector in Namibia.This year, more than 150 exhibitors including several operators from the small and medium enterprise (SMEs) sector will showcase their wares and services to visitors and fellow exhibitors; at the same time having a networking platform.Although being generally a local event that attracts visitors and viewers from all over the world, Manthe-Grobler said other regional and international organisations had also taken an interest in the expo and would be part of the exhibition.This year outside showcasing will come from South Africa, Zimbabwe, India, Indonesia and Malaysia.Manthe-Grobler added that the expo had many facets which made it unique and interesting for participants and visitors alike.The popular Chefs-In-Action Theatre will share cooking tips and prepare tantalising meals, and the annual chefs’ competition will choose the best of them all.The expo will also feature events such as food and wine tasting, a 4×4 show, a photographic competition and exhibition, in addition to various other related events.Said Manthe-Grobler: “The expo represents different aspects and has everything for everyone.”The expo will be officially opened tomorrow.