Aviemore to host the 2010 Adventure Travel World Summit
Aviemore is set to host the world’s largest gathering of adventure tourism specialists at the seventh Adventure Travel World Summit. The global annual conference of The Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA) will take place from October 4-7 at the Macdonald Aviemore Highland Resort in the Cairngorms National Park.
After a lengthy review process, the ATTA announced its selection of Scotland as host during last week’s 2009 Adventure Travel World Summit in Québec, Canada, attended by more than 500 delegates representing nearly 50 countries.
The Adventure Travel World Summit will provide Scotland with the ideal opportunity to position the country as a developing adventure travel destination building on the current £160 million the adventure tourism market is worth to the Scottish economy. The event is expected to bring one million pounds into the local economy.
“Hosting this summit is an excellent opportunity for both Scotland and the Adventure Travel Trade Association to highlight the many options for adventure travel, business and recreation in Scotland,” said Minister for Tourism Jim Mather. “It is vital that we continue to look at new and innovative ways of attracting new visitors to our great country through initiatives such as this, ensuring that Scotland continues to be one of the ‘must visit’ destinations in the world that is open for business all year round.”
Scotland’s successful bid hinged upon many factors, most importantly for VisitScotland’s enthusiasm, planning and strategic vision, for a supportive government at the highest levels, for the country’s commitment to sustainable lifestyles, for its world-class adventure travel resources, and its early and active engagement of regional partners to strengthen European involvement in the event. VisitScotland also secured the support of Scotland’s First Minister Alex Salmond, rallied several major country tourism boards to support the trade conference, and partnered with event venue, transportation and accommodation partners to ensure a high value, cost-effective event for delegates worldwide.
“With such incredible destinations stepping up to host our adventure travel community’s annual gatherings, the Summit site decision-making process has become more and more challenging,” said ATTA President Shannon Stowell. “Scotland’s inventive approaches, understanding of the ATTA’s short- and long-term vision, and its commitment to our mutual success gave this emerging adventure travel destination the edge.”
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