CzechTourism has successfully concluded a three-city roadshow across India, marking its first such initiative since the pandemic. From October 7-10, the roadshow made its way through Delhi, Bengaluru, and Mumbai, with the aim of reigniting Indian travelers’ interest in Czechia as a prime destination for both leisure and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) travel. The roadshow was organized by VFS Global, Czechia’s strategic partner in India, and featured representatives from CzechTourism, the Czech Embassy, and CzechTrade who collaborated to highlight Czechia’s diverse offerings to India’s travel trade and media professionals.
The roadshow’s objective was clear: to promote Czechia’s cultural and architectural landmarks, which go far beyond its famous capital city of Prague, and to present new opportunities for Indian businesses and organizations in the growing MICE industry. With India recognized as an emerging market, CzechTourism seeks to establish the country as a key destination for Indian travelers, offering everything from historic architecture to modern wellness and gastronomy experiences.
Czechia: A Safe, Scenic, and Diverse Travel Destination
Czechia was ranked the 8th safest country in the world by the Global Peace Index (GPI) in 2021, positioning it as an attractive option for Indian travelers seeking a safe yet captivating destination. From the spellbinding beauty of Prague, known as the “City of a Hundred Spires,” to the tranquil medieval allure of Český Krumlov, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Czechia offers a wide array of travel experiences that blend history, culture, and modernity. During the roadshow, these offerings were highlighted as key attractions for Indian tourists.
In addition to these cultural treasures, other noteworthy destinations showcased included:
- Karlovy Vary, Europe’s largest spa town, famed for its healing hot springs, elegant 19th-century architecture, and grand colonnades.
- Plzeň, the birthplace of the world-famous Pilsner beer, where visitors can explore the historic Pilsner Urquell Brewery and its award-winning interactive beer museum.
These cities, along with Prague, exemplify the range of experiences awaiting Indian travelers, from luxurious spa getaways to rich culinary and historical tours.
Targeting Indian Travelers Through Strategic B2B Events
The roadshow was more than a promotional event—it served as a platform for fostering B2B interactions. Through meetings and presentations, CzechTourism and its partners engaged with India’s top travel trade professionals to explore new collaborations. The event sought to highlight Czechia’s readiness to welcome Indian tourists post-pandemic, while also showcasing MICE opportunities for Indian businesses looking to hold international conferences, incentives, and exhibitions in the heart of Europe.
Ms. Jana Štumpová Konicarová, Director of Marketing and Foreign Offices at CzechTourism, emphasized the importance of the Indian market, stating:
“It was a true pleasure to engage with passionate travel professionals from both the leisure and MICE sectors across key Indian cities. India is a priority market for us in the coming years, and we are committed to fostering a strong, steady flow of Indian visitors to Czechia, catering to diverse demographics and interests.”
With the goal of expanding the leisure travel segment, CzechTourism is also focused on tapping into the MICE market, offering tailored solutions to Indian organizations. The agency is working closely with stakeholders to establish direct connectivity between India and Czechia by 2025, which will make traveling to the European nation even more accessible for Indian tourists.
Fostering Strong Government and Tourism Ties
One of the highlights of the Delhi leg of the roadshow was the involvement of Her Excellency Dr. Eliška Žigová, Czech Ambassador to India, and Ms. Laura Vlachová, Economic and Commercial Counsellor at the Czech Embassy, who shared valuable insights into visa facilitation and Czechia’s tourism policies. The sessions also provided crucial updates on Schengen visas, a key point of interest for Indian travelers wishing to explore Europe.
In Bengaluru, Mr. Janardhan HP, Joint Director of Tourism for Karnataka, attended the event and discussed India’s rising demand for experiential tourism—a trend that aligns well with Czechia’s offerings. This interaction further underscored Czechia’s appeal not only to leisure travelers but also to those seeking cultural and experiential travel experiences.
Expanding Visa Accessibility and Future Plans
As part of its strategy to attract more Indian travelers, CzechTourism announced plans to reopen its Mumbai Consulate by early 2025, enhancing visa accessibility and encouraging longer stays beyond Prague. This move is expected to streamline the visa application process, making it easier for Indian tourists to visit multiple regions of Czechia.
Ms. Barbara Andelová, International Marketing Manager, stated:
“Given the growing interest of Indian travelers in European destinations and emerging travel patterns that extend beyond the summer season, Czechia is poised to captivate Indian visitors with its stunning landscapes, inspiring architecture, and remarkable culinary offerings.”
She added that CzechTourism aims to promote all 14 regions of the country and will focus on gastronomy and wellness experiences through targeted consumer campaigns in the Indian market.
Strengthening Trade Relations with Indian Travel Partners
The roadshow’s success was built on the collaboration between CzechTourism and its private sector partners, including hotels, destination management companies (DMCs), and the Prague Shopping Outlet. These partners presented their offerings to Indian travel agencies, underscoring the diversity of experiences available beyond Prague.
Mr. GB Srithar, Head of Tourism Services at VFS Global, highlighted the importance of reconnecting Czechia’s tourism partners with Indian travel trade representatives post-pandemic.
“Our commitment to promoting Czechia will be unwavering, focusing on streamlining visa facilitation and cultivating strong trade relationships to enhance leisure, ‘b-leisure,’ and corporate travel to Czechia.”
As CzechTourism concludes its successful roadshow across Delhi, Bengaluru, and Mumbai, the momentum for increasing Indian tourism to Czechia continues to grow. Through strategic B2B events, CzechTourism has showcased its country’s unique appeal and expanded its presence in the Indian travel market. With plans to improve visa access and establish direct flights, the roadshow signifies the beginning of a long-term relationship between Czechia and India, positioning Czechia as a must-visit destination for Indian travelers in the years ahead.
The post Czech Tourism Concludes Successful Roadshow in India, Showcasing Czechia’s Cultural and MICE Travel Offerings appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
