Upcoming MHRA conference to welcome top international tourism speakers

“Our foreign guest speakers, both of whom hold extremely prominent positions within the industry, were chosen for their area of expertise  on subjects which are extremely relevant in prevailing market conditions, and will talking  about the latest  developments affecting the tourism industry,” explains MHRA President George Micallef.

In a statement, the MHRA said the first presentation will be by Jörn Gieschen, Director of Destination Strategy & Marketing for THR International Tourism Consultants. “He will be discussing the importance of ‘destination innovation’, and will be calling on his experience gained from working with one of the world’s leading and most established tourism consulting firms.”

In the second presentation, the MHRA said that Helena Egan, TripAdvisor’s Destination Marketing Director,” will talk about the ‘power of positive opinion’. Ms Egan brings over 13 years’ experience in the travel and tourism industry to the conference. She joined TripAdvisor from Travel Weekly, U.S, and has also worked for Visit Britain and numerous cruise lines during her career.”

Additionally, the conference will feature an address by Opposition Leader Dr Joseph Muscat, and a closing speech by Prime Minister Dr Lawrence Gonzi, the MHRA added.

Dr. Mario De Marco will also be addressing the Association members during the first session. “This conference gives us the opportunity to report on the issues affecting Malta’s performance in the tourism industry, as well as the chance to highlight issues that the MHRA would like the authorities and stakeholders to address,” said Micallef.

“We want to create more awareness of the issues affecting the industry, both locally and internationally, and to create a debate between the private industry and the government in order to continue to successfully develop this important sector of the economy.”    

Top government officials, former Ministers for Tourism, constituted bodies, key industry stakeholders and former Association presidents have also been invited to the AGM, the MHRA said.

The conference, which will he held immediately after the AGM, will take place at the Phoenicia Hotel, Floriana, on the 26 November, 2010, at 11:00am.