Don't miss these 9 WTM London destination-led talking points

Maldives

Kandima Maldives is gearing up to launch the destination’s longest and fastest E-Go-Kart circuit, with an official opening on 15 November. The karts are powered by cutting-edge electric technology, and can reach speeds of up to 80km/h, along a track that extends for 500 metres, with 12 hair-raising turns. Set against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean, it’ll be a memorable drive for all ages. Meanwhile Cora Cora Maldives, a five-star resort in the Raa Atoll, is encouraging guests to book its Stargazing Dining Experience. A 12-metre Star-Gazing Tower made entirely from sustainable materials, such as bamboo, and offering 360-degree views of the ocean was constructed in 2022 to celebrate the resort’s first anniversary. A dining experience at the top of the tower costs US$ 345 per couple, for a six-course exclusive menu.

At WTM London: Kandima Maldives and Cora Cora Maldives can be found on the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation stand N11-415

Tren Maya

The team behind the Maya Train project will be at WTM, giving their unique perspective on how this landmark infrastructure project in south-eastern Mexico will revolutionise tourism across the Mayan world, opening doors to immersive cultural experiences, supporting sustainable travel, and fostering economic growth within local communities. From opening up new destinations to creating sustainable jobs, the train is set to be a catalyst for positive economic and social impact in the region.

At WTM London: The Maya Train will be with the Mexico team on stand S5-220

Italian Tourist Board

Via Appia, the earliest and most important road built by the ancient Romans, linking Rome and Brindisi, has become a Unesco World Heritage Site. This brings the total number of Unesco sites in Italy to 60, the highest number in the world, underscoring Italy’s commitment to preserving its historical and cultural treasures.

Meanwhile the Italian city of Gorizia, together with its neighbouring city of Nova Gorica in Slovenia, have been chosen to be joint European Capitals of Culture in 2025, the first time two different cities in two countries have assumed the joint role. Gorizia is known as the Italian Berlin because, after World War Two, the city was divided into two by a big wall. The Yugoslavian (now Slovenian) part was called Nova Gorica and became a very modern city, whereas the Italian Gorizia was and still is, the historical city. This wall became one of the symbols of the political-ideological separation between Western and Eastern Europe during the Cold War. It was only torn down in 2004 when Slovenia entered the European Community. The Transalpina Square, which the wall ran through, is now the only square in the world where you can stand simultaneously with your feet in two different countries – one in Italy and the other in Slovenia. 

At WTM London: The Italian Tourist Board is exhibiting at stand N3-200; N3-210

Corendon Airlines

New exhibitor Corendon Airlines will focus on expanding partnerships with UK tour operators and travel agents in 2025. This follows on from a successful first eight months of 2024 when it carried more than two million passengers, representing a 20% increase year-on-year.

The Turkish leisure airline plans to offer in excess of 600,000 seats for the 2024/2025 winter season and more than 30 destinations for summer 2025. It will operate more than 500 weekly flights with over two million seats, serving Gatwick, Bristol, Birmingham, Glasgow, Manchester and Newcastle, as well as 18 airports in Germany, four in Austria, and two in Switzerland.

Other talking points are Corendon’s recently announced partnership with the cOmmited.app platform, enabling passengers to reduce their carbon footprint as part of its sustainability goals, and the airline’s use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) on flights departing from Antalya, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80%.

At WTM London: Corendon Airlines can be found on stand N8-506

Parc Asterix

The second most visited theme park in France will be highlighting Cetautomatix, its spinning launch coaster which will be unveiled in 2025, and also a new themed hotel opening in 2026. 

Parc Astérix’s Gaulish zone is expanding to include the garage of the Village’s famous blacksmith: Cetautomatix. The Gaulish character is embarking on a new activity, offering a brand-new range of never-before-seen chariots. With its steep inclines, tight bends and unpredictable acceleration, this new Cétautomatix family attraction is sure to delight young and old alike.

Parc Asterix has announced a new attendance record, with 2,842,000 visitors in 2024 (vs 2,814,000 in 2023). 

At WTM London: Parc Asterix shares the Atout France stand N2-210

Bahrain

The Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority are gearing up for a wave of publicity for a major new attraction. The Bahrain Surf Park – Club Hawaii Experience, is set to open in 2026 at Bilaj Al Jazayer. This state-of-the-art surf park will be the first in the region to use Wavegarden Cove technology, offering a variety of waves for surfers of all levels. The surf park will also feature food and beverage outlets, cabanas, a spacious terrace, and plans to host major international surfing competitions.

At WTM London: The Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority are located on stand S10-222

Odisha, India

The state, in the east of India, known for wildlife, pristine beaches, and tribal arts & crafts, is undergoing a journey of transformation into a top eco-tourism destination.

The Odisha State Government aims to position Odisha as a leader in eco-tourism across India. At WTM Odisha Tourism will be sharing how eco-friendly accommodations and waste management systems are being integrated into Odisha’s major tourist destinations. Ministry leaders will also expand upon policies crafted to protect Odisha’s stunning landscapes and vibrant cultural heritage including some untouched and unexplored Buddhist sites.

Three key features of the area: 

·  Bhitarkanika National Park is India’s second largest mangrove ecosystem. The sanctuary has 215 species of birds including eight varieties of kingfisher.

 • Odisha’s nature camps and eco tours offer an opportunity for health-conscious individuals to learn about flora, fauna, and conservation while enjoying adventure activities like bird watching and hiking.

·  Arts & Crafts - Diverse, vibrant and utilitarian, Odisha’s talented craftspeople excel in stone work, silver filigree, wood craft, appliqué work, brass and bell metal work, dhokra castings, horn work, paper mache, terracotta, tie dye textiles to name a few.

At WTM London: Meet with Odisha Tourism representatives on the India Tourism stand N11–225