Ninh Binh, Vietnam, February 11, 2025 / TRAVELINDEX / The Travel Agents Federation of India (TAFI) Convention 2025 recently concluded in Ninh Binh, Vietnam, reaffirming its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and business growth in the travel industry. With the theme “Tourism for Tomorrow: Protecting the Planet“, the convention brought together over 200 travel professionals from India, industry leaders, and local stakeholders for meaningful discussions, networking, and destination exploration.
Ajay Prakash, President of TAFI, set the tone for the convention, stating, “Sustainability has gone beyond being a mere catchword; it is the single most important need today for the tourism industry. If we are to rethink our business models and think beyond profit, the move has to come from within the industry.”
A Convention with a Difference
TAFI is known for holding its conventions in unconventional destinations, and this year was no exception. In collaboration with the Provincial Government of Ninh Binh, the convention was heavily subsidized to include a full-fledged industry conference alongside a familiarization (fam) trip organized by local tour operators. This model allows lesser-known destinations to showcase their potential to travel leaders who have the power to market and promote them internationally.
Keynote Address and Industry Panels
The event kicked off with a keynote address emphasizing sustainability, partnerships, and innovation as the driving forces for the future of travel by Dr. Scott Smith from Assumption University of Thailand. Dr Scott is a popular speaker and a passionate advocate of sustainable tourism development and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Dr Scott’s keynote began with an educational and entertaining overview of the SDGs and encouraged the audience to choose goals that resonate with them, their businesses, and the organizations they belong to. The need for organizational transformations, rather than change, was presented to a like-minded audience.
Dr. Scott Smith emphasized the urgency of action, stating, “The time is now for trade organizations such as TAFI, PATA and SKAL International to embrace the UN SDGs and build bridges between the public and private sectors to work towards achieving these goals.
By collaborating, these organizations can accelerate change, expanding sustainable tourism practices to a wider audience while strengthening partnerships between the public and private sectors to achieve shared goals.
Well-established organizations have a real opportunity to accelerate and amplify the good work so many local entrepreneurs and innovators are already doing. Imagine a world where all the SDG Goals have been achieved. That will be amazing!”
Industry experts led thought-provoking panel discussions, covering topics such as:
Sustainable and Inclusive Tourism: Featuring insights from the inspirational academic and entrepreneur, David Van Hove, from Vin University and Miss Nguyen Thao Van, CFO of Dynapath. Nicknamed “Van”, this future leader is a Vin University alumna and winner of the WTTC Global Summit Investors’ Nest Award. She shared Dynapath’s groundbreaking initiative of producing kinetic tiles from recycled plastic, a revolutionary solution addressing plastic pollution and renewable energy generation.
Revenue Growth through Allied Services: Moderated by Sheldon Santwan, Editor-in-Chief & CEO of TravelBiz Monitor, this session included industry leaders such as Liberatha Kallat (DreamFolks Services Ltd.), who detailed their expansion beyond airport lounge access into spas, restaurants, and sleeping pods to enhance traveler experience.
B2B Networking and Business Expansion
A key highlight of the convention was the B2B networking session, where over 60 Vietnamese suppliers engaged with Indian travel agents, fostering business relationships and collaborations. This session provided an ideal platform for exploring Vietnam’s tourism offerings, including accommodations, attractions, and local experiences.
Exploring Ninh Binh’s Iconic Attractions
Beyond business, delegates had the opportunity to experience Vietnam’s stunning natural and cultural heritage. Key site visits included:
Trang An Landscape Complex – A UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its picturesque boat rides through limestone caves.
Hoa Lu Ancient Capital – A historical site reflecting Vietnam’s royal past.
Bai Dinh Pagoda – The largest Buddhist temple complex in Vietnam, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike.
Tam Coc-Bich Dong – Often called “Halong Bay on land,” known for its breathtaking landscapes and traditional boat tours.
A Grand Finale: Cultural Immersion and Celebrations
The convention included two spectacular VIP evenings at Ninh Binh’s top tourist destinations;
- Thung Nham Resort, where delegates enjoyed Vietnamese cuisine in a serene natural setting.
- A grand Gala Dinner at the iconic Tam Chuc Pagoda, featuring cultural performances and celebrations, bringing together the spirit of collaboration and appreciation for Vietnam’s hospitality.
A Future-Ready Travel Industry
The TAFI Convention 2025 successfully united industry professionals, local stakeholders, and business leaders to create new opportunities, promote sustainable tourism, and strengthen international partnerships. The event reinforced Vietnam’s potential as a key travel destination for Indian tourists and set the stage for future growth and collaboration.
