In a significant step to enhance tourism from India, Thomas Cook (India) Limited, alongside its group company SOTC Travel, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority (MTPA). This partnership is aimed at boosting Mauritius’ visibility in the highly promising Indian market and encouraging greater visitation from the region. The MOU was officially signed by Mr. Rajeev Kale, President & Country Head of Thomas Cook (India), Mr. S.D. Nandakumar, President & Country Head of Holidays and Corporate Tours at SOTC Travel, and Mr. Benoît Harter, Director of MTPA. The ceremony was also attended by Mr. Dinesh Burrenchobay, Chairman of MTPA.
Mauritius, with its stunning beaches, crystal-clear lagoons, and vibrant landscapes, will now be showcased beyond its natural beauty. This collaboration will highlight the island’s rich Creole culture, reflected through its festivals, culinary heritage, and diverse religious practices. With historical cultural ties to India, Mauritius offers a unique blend of familiarity and exotic charm that appeals strongly to Indian tourists. The country’s accessibility, bolstered by visa-free entry for Indian nationals, short flight durations, and a range of accommodation options from luxury resorts to more affordable stays, positions it as an ideal destination for various types of travelers. Whether it’s for honeymooners, multi-generational families, millennials, Gen Z, or those seeking leisure vacations, Mauritius holds immense appeal.
Additionally, Mauritius is emerging as a leading destination for MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) and corporate travel. The island boasts top-tier conference facilities, luxury resorts with state-of-the-art meeting infrastructures, and unique team-building opportunities set in spectacular natural surroundings.
The partnership will also focus on various strategies such as promoting destination knowledge, developing tailored products, and enhancing marketing communications. These efforts are designed to position Mauritius as a top-of-mind travel destination not only in India’s metro cities but also in mini-metros and tier 2 and tier 3 markets. Through this strategic collaboration, both parties aim to significantly boost tourism flows to Mauritius and provide Indian travelers with an unforgettable experience.
Mr. Benoit Harter – Director, Mauritius Tourism Promotion Authority, said, “We are delighted to work with Thomas Cook (India) and SOTC Travel as part of our strategy to grow the Indian market for Mauritius and accelerate visitation from both metro cities and regional markets. Our multipronged approach aims to leverage opportunities across the leisure and MICE segments through this partnership. We look forward to working closely with Thomas Cook and SOTC
