The Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) and the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC), in collaboration with the Maldives Mission in New York, recently organised a high-profile familiarisation (fam) trip aimed at strengthening the Maldives’ position within the highly competitive US travel market. The fam trip brought together a select group of travel advisors from Intele Travel, the largest and most established travel host agency in the United States, offering them a firsthand experience of the Maldives’ unparalleled beauty, luxury, and hospitality.
The fam trip provided the travel advisors with a unique opportunity to explore the Maldives’ renowned properties, such as Stone Hotels K. Dhiffushi, Villa Resorts, and Diamonds Athuruga Resort and Spa. These properties were selected for their diverse offerings, providing the delegates with a comprehensive view of the Maldives’ rich tourism landscape, from the local island culture, stunning beachfront escapes, to overwater villas and exclusive luxury services. The advisors were also given a chance to experience the Maldives’ diverse marine life, pristine beaches, and local culture, all of which are core attractions for travellers from the US.
To facilitate smooth travel arrangements, Turkish Airlines partnered as the official airline sponsor, ensuring that the delegation received the highest standards of comfort and convenience on their journey to the Maldives. The seamless travel experience allowed the participants to focus on the destinations and services that the Maldives has to offer. Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA) and Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) also extended their kind support to manage the group’s logistics.
A key highlight of the fam trip was an exclusive networking event held in Malé, which provided a platform for local travel agents, tour operators, and key industry stakeholders to engage directly with the travel advisors from Intele Travel. This event served as a vital opportunity for knowledge exchange, fostering connections and partnerships between the Maldives’ tourism industry and the US market. By encouraging collaboration and enhancing communication, the event helped reinforce the Maldives’ commitment to expanding its reach among US travellers and deepening relationships with travel professionals.
The USA remains one of the Maldives’ top 10 source markets, with a significant potential for growth. As more US travellers seek unique and luxurious experiences, the Maldives is increasingly becoming a destination of choice for those looking for world-class resorts, exceptional customer service, and unparalleled natural beauty. The US market has been a focus of the Maldives’ long-term tourism strategy, and this fam trip is the first in a series of initiatives aimed at positioning the Maldives as a must-visit destination for discerning American travellers. MATATO and MMPRC are working together to ensure that the Maldives remains at the forefront of the US market by strengthening relationships with travel agents, showcasing the diversity of experiences available, and promoting sustainable tourism practices.
In addition to the fam trip, MATATO and MMPRC have outlined plans for further joint initiatives that will continue to raise the profile of the Maldives in the US market. The goal is to cultivate deeper connections with US-based travel advisors, tour operators, and consumers, creating greater awareness of the Maldives’ diverse offerings and ensuring it is seen as an ideal destination for luxury holidays, honeymooners, family vacations, and adventure seekers.