Opening of Myanmar Tourism Federation Office in DC

Last night, Solimar International had the pleasure of opening the Myanmar Tourism Federation’s (MTF) first North American Office in history. This was a momentous occasion for both Myanmar and Solimar International, with bright expectations and hopes paving the way for a thriving future in this country.

The turnout at the event was spectacular, with representatives from a wide variety of spheres coming together to celebrate the future of Myanmar Tourism. Special guests included Mr. U Kyi Thein Ko, MTF Secretary General and the Myanmar Ambassador’s daughter, Thwe Myo Tut, who were giving their warmest welcomes.

Among the lively crowd were also representatives from National Geographic, Smithsonian Institute, World Wildlife Fund, Destination Marketing Association International and various Non-Profits, as well as various tour operators, PR and media personnel,  tourism consultants, George Washington tourism professors/students, interested travelers and industry leaders.

Several speeches were given by Solimar International CEO Chris Seek, Mr. U Kyi Thein Ko as well as Ms. Thwe Myo Tut, Dr. Don Hawkins and the Mandelay Tour Operator. These speeches spurred all to imagine the unmeasured depth of Myanmar’s beauty, its incredible diversity and hopeful potential in what sustainable tourism could bring to the people and local livelihoods – as well as the wealth of rich culture it could offer the world.

Attendees described their enthusiasm all round. “I’ve been to Thailand but now I want to go to Myanmar,” said Devon Sponheimer, from World Resources Institute and Japlanning, “This is a great event, it’s a lovely space.”

Todd Metrokin, from Ogilvy creative marketing, was impressed by the event and described it as “lively, cool, fun. Beautiful pictures and now I’m going to have be sucked in to go to Myanmar!”

These positive impressions are vital in these groundbreaking moments of Myanmar’s history – a country which was once closed to international tourism for over 60 years. As this nation opens its doors to tourism, there is no telling what could happen, with tourist arrivals multiplying at phenomenal speeds in the past few years.

This symbolic opening of the first North American Office is only a sign of things to come – and a sign of increased openings to this breathtaking country.