Fiji Minister for Tourism Bill Gavoka was a guest of honour at the end of the Day 1 soiree of the Mobile Travel Agents conference at Sheraton Fiji Golf and Beach Resort, Denarau that featured a Fijian choir, cocktails and a beachside feast before delegates get down to business at the Supplier Showcase tomorrow.
Karen and Roy Merricks, pioneers of the home-based model in Australia, were present as the minister sang their praises not only for what they had done for Fiji tourism but for putting tourism for purpose over profit.
The soiree and following dinner was attended by more than 300 travel professionals from across Australia gathered for the conference, themed ‘Celebrate the Journey’, to explore the evolving landscape of the travel industry and strategies for adaptation and growth.
Early in the day, hundreds braved the overcast and drizzly day for a ferry trip across to Malamala Island where a long lunch was followed by massages, beach games, a treasure hunt and dip in the warm waters of the bay.
Those keen enough after Day 1 activities would be rising early to take part in Yoga flow or a group jog, which seemed unlikely by the time Travel Weekly departed the dinner.
(Feature images: Grant Jones)
