Successful convention needs follow-up

Certainly because of my past involvement in tourism, perhaps because I live in the area where most of the delegates were lodged in their five-star hotels perhaps because I was quite undecided as to what the outcome of this massive conference (some called it convention, some called it meeting) would be, I followed to the best of my ability through the written and spoken word the various activities that were organised for the just under 5,000 participants of the Oriflame Convention 2010.

I understand that over the week 15 events were organised, all of which were a huge success. Reports indicate that other companies which organise such events on a large scale are now showing interest in Malta. That is great news.

What needs to be done now is the follow-up. During my involvement in tourism the “trade fair” season used to be in full swing in a few months.

I am convinced that the Malta Tourism Authority, under the able chairmanship of Louis Farrugia as well as the Parliamentary Secretary for Tourism, Mario de Marco, has already made various arrangements.

The success of this convention must be given good exposure. The organisers, which include the hoteliers, as well as the catering, transport and tour firms, including the staff who must have put in so many hours of hard secretarial work to ensure that everything goes well, should not go unrewarded.

It is now up to everyone involved in incoming tourism to do their homework and be prepared.

Finally, congratulations and well done to all those who were in any way involved in this conference. You have done Malta proud.