Belize Hosts Its Bi-annual Belize Tourism Expo 2008

The Belize Tourism Board alongside The Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA) has once again come together for the bi-annual Belize Tourism Expo (BETEX). BETEX is sponsored by the BTIA, as well as major sponsors, the Belize Tourism Board, Atlantic Bank Ltd., Tropic Air, Idea Lab Studios, Discovery Expeditions Belize, and Caribbean Treasures Ltd., Astrum Helicopters, Chaa Creek, Belize Audubon Society, and airline partners such as American Airlines, Continental Airlines, and TACA Airlines, in addition to a host of local sponsors and supporters throughout the country.

This year, BETEX has turned heads and gained interest by many international trade attendees, Belize-based suppliers, and both local and international press with the changing of this year’s Expo format, which was a five-day travel industry familiarization resort desk visits was a gratifying experience for all participants. BETEX was held from July 30th to August 4th, 2008. The opening day started with a welcome reception at Old Belize Museum, and continued with a scheduling of BETEX mini marketplaces in different destinations around Belize from July 31st – August 3rd. Destinations visited were Belize City, Punta Gorda, Placencia, San Pedro, Dangriga, Hopkins, and Cayo. Various business meetings were held giving local tourism service providers an opportunity to showcase their products and interact personally with international partners. Travel professionals also participated in several day expeditions which included Sea & Caye, Diving, Adventure,- Archaeology, Rainforest/Jungle, Culture, Family, Luxury-Spa, and Romance where they could better immerse themselves in the Belizean product.

The Belize Tourism Expo provided an incomparable opportunity for the private sector to stimulate attendees on the attractions and beauty Belize offers. Belize-based suppliers increased their profitability with travel agents and wholesalers by educating them on the destination as well as creating an unforgettable experience which in return, will continue to nurture the relationships and strengthen increased tourism.