Takulandirani Malawi Tourism Expo
I made a presentation at the Takulandirani 2019 Malawi Tourism International Tourism Expo on Property Access to Digital Platforms. The expo was held at the Bingu International Conference Centre, Umodzi Park Hotel.
Tourism properties and digital platforms
Following on the theme of the 2018 World Tourism Day (Tourism and the Digital Transformation) that highlights the need for investment in disruptive digital technologies that can help foster an environment for innovation and entrepreneurship in tourism, my presentation considered several issues.
Firstly, digital advances are transforming how travellers inform themselves and how properties attract visitors, gather data and develop products. There has been a power shift – travellers now have the power in their hands! Cheaper devices have made travel research easier, if not outright easy. Lite apps like Facebook Lite and YouTube Go mean mobile data takes people researching destinations and properties a bit longer. It is, therefore, necessary to harness technology’s power for good.
Making my presentation at the Malawi tourism expo. Photo: PJM Photography
I talked about the rise of User Generated Content and how tourism properties (and indeed other tourism players) can work with online influencers and travel bloggers. Such arrangements are not always straightforward but when done right can benefit both parties immensely.
Importance of owned digital platforms
Perhaps the most important thing I wanted to get across was the importance of owned platforms – specifically websites and email marketing platforms. It is not uncommon for local properties to ignore the importance of such platforms. Yet at the very least, a website should be considered the anchor for all online marketing efforts. Reliance on social media platforms alone is a risky strategy. Algorithms change and platforms get shut down. Facebook, Instagram and Google+ are all very good examples.
One great thing I get from events like these is the knowledge and unique experiences your audience shares with you in the feedback session. Lovely interactions!
Odd coloured drinks
A man needs a strong drink after making a presentation. I was in luck! The mixologists at Summer Jam Gardens Cocktails put together a lovely blue drink for me. Bliss!
Some online coverage of the Takulandirani Malawi Tourism Expo
—-
Its only 3 days to the #MITE2019
The show is open to trade visitors, exhibitors, buyers and media on 25th and 26th April
Saturday 27th is for the General Public
Do not miss out
Tidziyamba ndife A Malawi! pic.twitter.com/C4eLHGB09L— Malawi Tourism (@TourismMalawi) April 22, 2019
Malawi Night ????????#Malawi #MITE2019 #mdidialltheway #malawimusic pic.twitter.com/vdQ3hm9TwV
— Faith Mussa (@mussa_faith) April 27, 2019
Thank you for all that visited our stand today and created a platform to work together and we believe the networks will help & support our tourism sector. All that failed today, let us meet tomorrow.
Together we can lift the tourism of Malawi.#travelmalawuiguide #mite2019 pic.twitter.com/GKthXk9EPf— Travel Malawi Guide (@travel2malawi) April 25, 2019
Luxe-Rose Bespoke Interior helped us create the best interactive space at #MITE2019
With a great range of beautiful furniture and gorgeous accessories they can turn any space into a luxury haven.#interiordesign #furniture #luxuryspaces #luxuryafrica #interactivespaces pic.twitter.com/3popx6DyPv
— Mzuzu Fashion Week (@MzuzuFashionWk) May 3, 2019
View this post on InstagramErster Messetag #malawi #thewarmheartofafrica #takulandirani #takulandirani2019
My day at the “Takulandilani” Malawi International Tourism Expo. It was an amazing experience, so much positive energy. And as usual, with the brother, Paul.
Dressed by Nane’s Collection, Vchena Apparel, Che Mwamadi, Wala Clothing#MITE2019 #MzuzuFashionWeek #Takulandilani #BICC pic.twitter.com/27odyKbULl— Alfalfa (@CA_Tatted) April 27, 2019
#VoyagesAfriq Scenes from Day 1 of this year’s Malawi International Tourism Expo, #MITE2019 @TourismMalawi @mphondak @sarahnjanji pic.twitter.com/pvzT05WmWY
— #VoyagesAfriq (@VoyagesAfriq) April 25, 2019
—-
Cover image: @TourismMalawi
To receive a monthly roundup of stories from the #LifeUnbound blog and other gems subscribe below.
