ASIA Travel Tips.com

(http://www.asiatraveltips.com)

The ASEAN Tourism Forum (ATF) is a travel trade show which rotates annually among the member countries of ASEAN.

The Travel Exchange (TRAVEX), which is the exhibition part of the ATF with buyers from around the world and sellers ASEAN, will be held at Vietnam Exhibition Fair Centre, 148 Giang Vo Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi, Vietnam, from 10-12 January 2009 as part of the official programme of the ASEAN Tourism Forum 2009 to be held from 5-12 January 2009.

The event will include a meeting of tourism working groups with experts and senior officials of tourism agencies of ASEAN countries; a meeting between ASEAN Tourism Agencies, ASEAN and partners; ASEAN Tourism Ministers meeting, ASEAN and partners.

Before the severe impact of the current global economic crisis really hit home, organisers of TRAVEX were expecting around 450 exhibitors at the 2009 event showcasing the tourism industry of ASEAN countries.

However, considering that the economy around the world seems to be worsening, and that the Asian and global travel trade only just recently met at the successful ITB Asia in Singapore as well as the popular WTM in London, it would not be surprising to see less numbers than expected at a show which is so early in the year, and just a couple of months before the must-attend ITB Berlin.

With budgets getting tighter and tighter, the economy worse and worse, we would suggest that if ASEAN, and Asia as a whole, is a priority for your company then book the ITB Asia which will take place in October 2009, and then consider whether you can also afford to attend the ITB Berlin in March 2009, the Arabian Travel Market in May and WTM which takes place in November 2009 in London.

Hanoi is a truly beautiful city, with outstanding French architecture which at times will leave you almost believing you are in the French capital, Paris. It is also however not cheap, and hotels should be booked well in advance. When booking do make sure you check whether internet is included, the prices etc.

For other travel trade shows and events check out our Calendar of Travel Trade Shows, and be sure to read our reviews of Vietnam.