“Travellers are increasingly focused on sustainability, eco-tourism, and authentic cultural experiences.”

Adela Issachar Aru, CEO of Vanuatu Tourism Office, delves into the allure of adventure tourism for Asian visitors and the evolving travel trends shaping Vanuatu’s tourism strategies.

How important is adventure tourism for Vanuatu’s Asian tourists? What are some of the most popular attractions?
Vanuatu boasts stunning natural landscapes, including volcanoes, rainforests, coral reefs, and pristine beaches, making it an ideal destination for adventure seekers. They can engage in a wide range of adventurous activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, hiking, volcano trekking on the active Mont Yasur volcano on Tanna island, and zip-lining.

Have you noticed any changes in travellers’ habits recently? How are these changes affecting what sectors Vanuatu Tourism is looking to invest in and develop in the future?
The Vanuatu Tourism Office has assessed through its market research that travellers are increasingly focused on sustainability, eco-tourism, and authentic cultural experiences. Therefore, Vanuatu Tourism’s Market Development Plan 2030 aligns with these evolving trends, emphasising the preservation of natural environments, promotion of sustainable tourism practices, and the provision of unique cultural experiences to visitors.

What are your main goals at ITB Asia this year?
Participating in ITB Asia is crucial for us in order to promote Vanuatu as a destination for adventure tourism and other unique experiences, to gain insights into the latest travel trends and market demands, especially from Asian travellers and of course, to showcase the People, the sustainability and cultural aspects of Vanuatu to align with evolving traveller preferences.

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Photo: Adela Issachar Aru, CEO of Vanuatu Tourism Office