Iraq to Become Holiday Hotspot

Iraq's Culture and Tourism minister has revealed that over $300 million had been spent on the refurbishment of six hotels in Baghdad

While not the most obvious of holiday locations, Iraq has been highlighted as a country that could become a popular holiday destination in the future. As the tourism industry prepares to include countries in next year's World Travel Market convention brochure, experts have revealed that Iraq is vying for a position.

Speaking of the importance of tourism in helping to rebuild a country, Paul Nelson from the World Travel Market explained "I think you'll find it probably won't be too long before it is a family destination." He added that Croatia had once been a destination torn by civil war, but now holidays to locations such as Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik are highly sought after.

Meanwhile, the Culture and Tourism minister of Iraq, Kahatan Alawadi, said that $300 million had been spent on refurbishing six hotels in Baghdad, hoping that the country's international standards would encourage tourists to visit the country. However, with the country remaining dangerous to foreigners and many governments advising residents to avoid the nation, it could be some time before families head to the region to enjoy a cultural holiday.

Meanwhile, South Korea is also attempting to make an impression on the World Travel Market circuit. Trying to break the negative connotations to its neighbour North Korea, the South Korea tourist board's marketing manager, Michael Michael, said the country was ideal for "somebody looking for something different, for a real cultural experience - you can get very good value for money." And for those wanting to explore this fascinating and complex nation, a range of competitively priced flights to Seoul are available from a number of British Airports.

Posted by Nigel, 15 November 2010 14:19

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