Sunday, October 27, 2024
The Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) recently hosted a promotional event in Spain, titled “Macao Night,” to enhance Macao’s appeal as a premier destination for “tourism + conventions and exhibitions.” The event took place on October 25, during the 49th Congress of the Portuguese Association of Travel and Tourism Agencies (APAVT) in Huelva, Andalucia. It aimed to showcase the destination’s unique offerings and foster stronger ties with European markets. The initiative is part of MGTO’s broader strategy to diversify Macao’s visitor sources and boost post-pandemic travel recovery from Europe.
Flag Handed Over for 50th APAVT Congress in Macao
A highlight of the evening was the ceremonial handover of the APAVT Congress flag to MGTO and co-host Galaxy Entertainment Group (GEG), marking the official announcement that Macao will host the 50th APAVT Congress from December 2 to 4, 2025. Approximately 640 Portuguese travel industry delegates attended this year’s event, reinforcing collaboration between Macao and the Portuguese travel trade.
Strengthening Ties with Europe
MGTO Director Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes emphasized Macao’s readiness to host next year’s congress, citing strong ties with European travel markets and ongoing efforts to rejuvenate visitor flows from Portugal, Spain, and other parts of Europe. She expressed optimism that the 50th APAVT Congress would be a key milestone in Macao’s recovery and growth as a world center of tourism and leisure.
APAVT President Pedro Costa Ferreira echoed these sentiments, noting the deep relationship between Macao and Portugal as not just a tourism link, but a longstanding friendship. He promised that the upcoming congress would be an unforgettable experience, celebrating Macao’s rich cultural diversity, blending tradition with modernity.
Showcasing Macao’s “Tourism +” Offerings
The “Macao Night” dinner featured an east-meets-west gastronomic experience, highlighting Macao’s status as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy. Delegates were treated to traditional Macanese delicacies prepared by renowned chef Graça Pacheco Jorge. The entertainment program included culinary-themed performances, traditional Chinese dances, and a music ensemble playing both Chinese and Western instruments, offering a vibrant preview of what Macao has to offer as a destination for tourism, conventions, and exhibitions.
Multi-Channel Approach to European Promotion
MGTO has been actively working to re-engage European tourists post-pandemic. This includes collaborations with APAVT through the “Macao – APAVT Preferred International Destination 2024” campaign, joint promotions at travel fairs like FITUR in Spain and the Lisbon Travel Market, and organizing European travel trade and media visits to Macao. Earlier this year, Macao also hosted the “European Travel Agents’ and Tour Operators’ Associations (ECTAA) 2025 Macao Summit,” further enhancing its visibility in the region.
Established in 1950, APAVT is the leading representative of the Portuguese travel industry, and its annual congress is one of the most important gatherings for industry professionals. The upcoming 50th Congress in Macao will be the sixth time the destination has hosted the event, following previous editions in 1982, 1990, 1996, 2008, and 2017. This event is expected to offer Portuguese tourism stakeholders firsthand insights into Macao’s latest offerings and contribute to diversifying international visitor markets.
Looking Ahead to 2025
With its dynamic blend of eastern and western influences, rich cultural heritage, and cutting-edge convention facilities, Macao continues to position itself as a global tourism hub. The successful promotion at “Macao Night” in Spain is just one part of a broader strategy to increase visitor numbers from Europe and showcase Macao as a top destination for both leisure and business travelers.
The collaboration between MGTO, APAVT, and other European tourism stakeholders is set to further bolster Macao’s international reputation, ensuring that the 50th APAVT Congress in 2025 will be a pivotal event for the region’s tourism sector.