''Bienvenue à France'' says Maison de la France at ''French connection 2007'' in Mumbai

Mumbai: Of late the Indian market has become an important destination for several tourism suppliers. A proof to this, the fifth edition of the ''French Connection 2007'' was organised by the Maison de la France (French tourist office) at the Taj Mahal Palace and Tower, Mumbai. This two-day annual road show kicked off at Mumbai with a view to showcase France as a prime tourist destination and to attract more Indian tourists to France.

The main focus of the French tourist office is to display France as an ideal destination for Indians by introducing as many people to the richness of France, its beauty, gastronomy, culture, activities and shopping. Promoting France as ''a unique rendezvous'', 42 delegates from 28 companies took part in the event.

"The Indian market is becoming increasingly affluent and is an emerging market for us. The French Connection 2007 is part of an ongoing project for French companies to gain greater access in India and identify opportunities for the long-term growth in both countries," said Karim Mekachera, director Maison de la France.

While addressing questions posed by the media, Pascal Visintainer, marketing director, Maison de la France, said, "France has the whole world in it. It has something new to offer every time one sets foot in this wonderful country. However language and food seems to be a barrier for the Indian tourists visiting France. Keeping this in mind we have encouraged the use of English in most of the tourist destinations. Language will no more be a barrier between Indians and this wonderful experience. Also we have many Indian restaurants in France and the concept of vegetarian food has been popularized to cater to the Indian tourists."

Focusing on their niche market, Visintainer said, "The younger generation of India are good money spenders and could potentially be good brand ambassadors for tourism.", Mekachera added. " Also we believe that our integrated marketing and communications campaign will successfully boost our arrivals from India. By closely working with several key operators and airlines, we expect an increase in the number of Indian tourists in the regions of France."

Covering a spectrum of services and products, the exhibitors at the road show included - Rhone Alpes, Alpe D''Huez Tourism, Arfdeche, Air France, Rail Europe, Alsace Tourism, Evian Royal Resort, Avalon Waterways, Best Mont Blank and many more.