PNG Promotes Tourism Attractions at Hong Kong Expo

Papua New Guinea is presenting its cultural, natural and adventure tourism attractions to the Hong Kong market as Air Niugini and the Tourism Promotion Authority lead the country's first participation in the Hong Kong Holiday & Travel Expo.

Held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre in Wan Chai, the three-day exhibition has provided the PNG tourism industry with an opportunity to meet travellers and promote holiday experiences across the country.

 PNG Promotes Tourism Attractions at Hong Kong Expo/Photo supplied

The event, which opened on September 25, features 270 exhibitors from the international tourism industry and has attracted a large public audience since its establishment two years ago.

Air Niugini chief executive Alan Milne said the airline's involvement reflected the importance of developing stronger tourism links between Papua New Guinea and Asia.

According to Milne, PNG's combination of natural attractions, cultural traditions and adventure activities gives travellers a broad range of experiences.

He said Air Niugini's four weekly direct flights between Port Moresby and Hong Kong were an important connection for visitors considering travel to PNG.

The flights operate on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays, with onward connections also available to Australia and several Pacific destinations.

Leading the PNG team at the exhibition, Air Niugini Regional Manager Asia Joshua Koh said the country's stand had attracted strong attention.

“We are seeing strong interest from visitors, with thousands passing through our booth eager to learn more about Papua New Guinea's unique culture, natural beauty and adventure tourism experiences,” Koh said.

Several tourism businesses have joined the delegation, including Coral Sea Hotels, Kokopo Beach Bungalow Resort, Karanas Comfort Tours, Cuppa Cafe and a number of restaurants and hospitality operators.

Rigo District traditional dancers have also been part of the presentation, giving visitors an opportunity to experience PNG culture through traditional performances and kundu drumming.

The delegation has been promoting activities ranging from underwater tourism and trekking to bird watching, cultural festivals, island travel and visits to traditional communities.

PNG coffee has also featured prominently, with visitors able to sample and learn about coffee produced in the country's major growing areas.

A “Spin the Wheel” competition at the stand has provided another attraction, offering prizes including travel credits, promotional items and PNG coffee.

The Hong Kong appearance follows PNG tourism promotion efforts at travel exhibitions in Singapore, Manila and other Asian markets.

Organisers said those earlier engagements had also generated interest from tourism organisations in Thailand, Vietnam and Indonesia about possible participation in future travel events.

For Air Niugini and TPA, the Hong Kong exhibition provides another avenue to develop tourism contacts and introduce PNG to potential visitors across the Asian market.

“Air Niugini is proud to support initiatives such as the Hong Kong Holiday & Travel Expo because tourism plays a vital role in creating economic opportunities, supporting local communities and showcasing our country to the world,” Milne said.