Colombia’s tourism industry received a financial shot in the arm last week with a $1.5 million USD investment package to “help elevate Colombia as a world-class travel destination,” local media reported
The news was unveiled by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Tourism and the National Tourism Fund recently.
The boost aims to promote Colombia as a top-tier travel destination abroad through international ad campaigns and airline partnerships.
The announcement comes five months after an English-language tourism website was launched to enhance Colombia’s image overseas – boasting an array of destinations while working to dispel the image of Colombia as a dangerous place.
Partnerships with airlines and private companies have been suggested to improve connections to different regions of Colombia through the operation of new flights, according to reports.
In 2013, over 3.5 million international tourists visited Colombia – a 7 percent increase on the previous year.
After Brazil, Colombia is the second most bio-diverse country in the world,making it a hotspot for travellers seeking eco, adventure and leisure trips, according to media reports.
With a growing numbers of tourists expected year-on-year, the investment package also aims to promote Colombia as an ideal destination for foreign investors, transnational companies and business and trade conferences.
By Madeleine Elder
