EM ES & Beyond

QUICK READS….

Why a collective marketing approach is important in selling Maldives?

• Because tourism is the country’s major economic activity

• Fierce competition with relatively similar features (external forces)

• Tourism is a homogeneous product and a very sensitive trade 

• Tourism contributes nearly 30% to the GDP of the Maldives

• It hits hard on country’s economy in downturns

• The percentage share of tourism revenue to the government remains 28% in 2008

• Tourism sector employs nearly 30,000 employees and most probably any impact some way or the other related to every single family in the country.

Bright sunshine, colorful corals, crystal clear water, white sandy beaches…These unique characteristics best describes the “Maldives”…

Today, this tiny nation has become one of the most attractive holiday destinations in the world. Normally, Maldives is popular as a do-nothing-kind of a destination. Holidaymakers attuned with the nature and leave their body mind and soul into the rhythm as it comes.

In the age of creativity and innovative thinkers, explorers never give things up easily. A group of Maldivians dive deep into their imaginations and see whether there are more blessings in disguise in their home country. Bear in mind, 99% of the nation is pure ocean.  

This came after the historic underwater cabinet meeting held by Maldivian government to capture the world attention on climate change. Inspired by their eager to live the “paradise” to the fullest, the group decided to do something extraordinary and exciting. They decided to walk Maldives…! But hey…not like a celebrity-road-march!! This event will cover a 35 km long lagoon stretching from G.DH Atoll Madaveli to Fiyoree and believed to be one of the longest lagoons in the Maldives. There are 80 islands in this stripe among which five islands are inhabited.

The uncommon lagoon walk is believed to last for 72 hours.  Adventurous as it may sound, what a way to explore Maldives!

“…Established hotels are launching new brands to cater to emerging trends in the industry, such as traveler’s increased interest in environmentally-friendly hotels and so-called stylish “lifestyle” lodgings, which feature amenities that blur the lines between work and leisure.” Forbes 2008 Continue reading »

It was mid-day; the seminar room was attended with several students from different countries. The lecturer was discussing the uniqueness of certain places appreciated by the world for it’s breathtaking beauty, serene environment and ‘total peace’ for body mind and soul. We are talking about most romantic places on earth. Best honeymoon places to go. Any example? A student responded “Maldives”. “WOW Maldives”!! Yes this is one of the few places that are pure and peaceful. In fact it is one of the most top-ranked honeymoon destinations in the world. “Well yes”, A concerned voice.. “Hang on a minute, that’s interesting, but it is questionable about the future of this destination, have you heard the news??? A British honeymoon couple was caught up in a bomb blast.!!..” WHAT!, in Maldives a BomBlassst..!! Well have you not heard the weekend news from BBC 4??. Yes violence is on increase there. “Maybe we can discuss the issue further”! She replied. And the session went on. Continue reading »

Tourism is a booming industry that is contributing to the development of many countries in the world. It gives an unprecedented opportunity for nations to gain economic advantages by selling the uniqueness of those nations. But due to inability to maintain law and order, many nations has suffered to gain on tourism despite several unique sceneries and resources available in those destinations.

For low-income economies such as The Maldives, capitalizing on the benefits of tourism remains extremely important and it has proven that way. The world tourism is delicate by its nature and sensitive to what takes place in host nations and around the world . Over the years, since tourism introduced in 1972, Maldives has reached to the peaks of leisure holidays and it has become a cure for stressed minds of our time in the globe. It has gained a fashionable status that stays far ahead of new age Ferraris. For many, a visit to ‘heaven’ while living is a lifetime achievement. Sun, Sand and Sea, serenity to body mind and soul with total peace is what the island nation outperforming competition in the global arena. But since 9/11 and after several severe events of terror in many parts of the world, this industry has become one of the most troubled of all. Continue reading »

Is government having a loose hand or is it overflowing generosity to the public? Investors are skeptical about the ongoing attitude of the government announcing new resorts without having any productive plan ahead. Master Plan? or a plan for destruction?

In Haa Alif, now Hathifushi and Berinmadhoo announced for BID, 200 beds each. Dhonakulhi as Island Hideaway and Alidhu already in operation whilst Manafaru is yet to open soon. The concern is not only the rapid expansion but why can’t government consider providing the most needed infrastructure to facilitate this expansion. Several bottle-necks already created by the increased demand to north due to improper capacity planning. Support services has been given less attention resulting tremendous concerns to manage the unexpected. Continue reading »

Today, the developments in tourism are exciting and forward looking than it was anytime in the history of this industry. Predictions are more advanced and born chilling. Lifestyle is heading to its peak and experts predict that, by 2012 giant cruise ships with apartments owned by passengers will be sailing from one luxury destination to another. There are predictions of eco-tourists visiting the Arctic, Antarctic and other pristine destinations by hydrogen-powered jets that emit only water. There are also indications that by 2030, space elevators, which will climb an enormous cable made of nanotubes, will make tourism routine. The story goes on… Continue reading »