Eye on Travel

Radio Guest List–Global Tourism Economy Forum–October 24, 2015

gtef2This week’s broadcast of the Peter Greenberg Worldwide Radio Show comes from Macau, China at the Venetian Macau, host of the Global Tourism Economy Forum 2015. It’s the fourth forum to take place, and it is co-organized by the China Chamber of Tourism and hosted by the Macau SAR government. Over 45 countries and regions gather in Macau to discuss innovations in travel with China in mind. The exchange of information and innovation are invaluable to the tourism industry.

Regarded as the “Vegas of the East,” Macau has stood the test of time, maintaining its reputation as more than a trendy location but a true travel destination. A former Portuguese territory until 1999, the influence of the two cultures still remains. A SAR (Special Administrative Region) of China, Macau has benefitted from the blend of cultures. and both Portuguese and Cantonese are the dominant languages. Beyond the casinos, there are beaches, museums, and unique blends of architecture created from the Portuguese influence.

Click here to listen to the show, streaming live from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. EST on Saturday, October 24, 2015. Call in with your travel questions at 1-888-88-PETER (1- 888-887-3837) or email peter@petergreenberg.com (Write “Ask Peter” in the subject line).

Dr. Taleb Rifai the Secretary-General of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) discusses the emerging market of Chinese tourism and the importance that has on the economy and changing the perspectives throughout the world.

Pansy Ho, Vice Chairman and Secretary General, talks about the early stages of Macau’s developing economy and tourism market. She also reveals her picks for where to dine in the region.

Mario Hardy, CEO of the Pacific Area Travel Association, shares a story about the early stages of the Macau market and explains how the driving force of Chinese travelers in the economy is changing in the market.

Jean-Claude Baumgarten the Vice Chairman of GTEF, explains how governments around the world are focusing on tourism to increase economic growth.

Alexis Tam, Secretary for Social Affairs and Culture, speaks about maintaining the heritage of Macau and the Portuguese influence on the region.

By Alicia Yang for PeterGreenberg.com