World Travel Awards (WTA), the biggest awards programme in the travel industry, has confirmed it will go ahead with its planned Asia and Australasia Gala Ceremony in Delhi on October 14.

The Claridges, Surajkund, Delhi will host the 17th staging of the WTA -- the Asia & Australasia Gala Ceremony, it said.

This will be only the second time the event has visited India. WTA president and founder, Graham Cooke said that the global media coverage of the Commonwealth Games preparations has been wildly disproportionate.

“India maintains a fantastic, world-leading, tourism product,” he explained. “Millions of visitors from around the world visit India each year to take in everything from the Taj Mahal to the beaches of Goa.”

Peter J Leitgeb, president & CEO, The Claridges Hotels & Resorts, said: “As one of the fastest growing economies, India today is on the radar screen of everyone and a key player in the world economy. No one can afford to ignore it.”

“The business climate and the economy in India is very bullish, especially so the hospitality industry. The industry has enjoyed an amazing run in this part of the world in the last five years.”

“The country itself has so much to offer to a visitor. It is fascinating to see the amazing diversity of the country and its vibrant and colourful culture,” he added.

Cooke continued: “The destination will grow to become one of the most important on the map over the next decade, despite misplaced perceptions over the Commonwealth Games.”

“We wholeheartedly support India and their continuous effort in developing the country, its economy and tourism. Through our event, we are firmly committed to placing a positive spotlight on the incredible destination that is India,” he concluded. – TradeArabia News Service