Bulgaria has been selected as a “Preferred Destination” for 2024 by the European Associations of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (ECTAA). In collaboration with the Bulgarian Ministry of Tourism and the Association of Bulgarian Tour Operators and Travel Agents (ABTTA), ECTAA is working to showcase Bulgaria as an enticing destination within Europe.
As a designated ECTAA Preferred Destination for 2024, Bulgaria’s Tourism Ministry has the opportunity to promote the country’s diverse offerings to approximately 80,000 EU travel professionals. This initiative aims to position Bulgaria as a top choice for travelers and encourage travel professionals to consider it as a premier destination. Eric Drésin, the Secretary General of ECTAA, expressed optimism about Bulgaria’s potential to become one of the most competitive countries in European tourism, offering a unique experience for holidaymakers.
In a joint effort, ECTAA and the Bulgarian Tourism Ministry have agreed to launch a collaborative campaign to promote Bulgaria to ECTAA members and a wider audience. The “Preferred Destination” program also includes plans for online information desks tailored to the promotional objectives of the Bulgarian Ministry of Tourism, aimed at travel agents and tour operators. Additionally, ECTAA will host its general meeting in Sofia in October 2024, providing a platform to showcase Bulgaria to leaders and industry experts across Europe.
The announcement by ECTAA coincides with the recent agreement between EU member states to eliminate internal air and sea border controls with Bulgaria and welcome the country into the Schengen area. This expected accession to the Schengen area is anticipated to enhance travel, trade, and tourism in Bulgaria.
Bulgaria’s Prime Minister, Nikolay Denkov, confirmed Bulgaria and Romania’s accession to the Schengen Zone by air and sea starting in March 2024. Discussions regarding land borders will continue throughout the year. The move to join the Schengen Zone by air and sea is a significant step for Bulgaria and Romania, contributing to increased connectivity and facilitating smoother travel within the Schengen area. This development underscores Austria’s support for Bulgaria and other EU countries during the negotiations.
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