Pink City is being wooed by overseas tourism boards. Within a month, Spanish and Korean tourism officials have come showcasing their countries as ideal tourist destinations.
"A lot of Koreans visit the Golden Triangle and in the process visit Jaipur. We wanted to showcase Korea as a great tourism destination. While Seoul is a total tourism destination by itself, Korea has a lot to offer to the Indian traveller. It may come as a surprise that Seoul itself has as many as 60 Indian restaurants, including some only serving vegetarian cuisine. The Jeju islands are very different from the Korean peninsula and something Indians will love it," said Lee Jae Sang, director, Korean Tourism Organisation, India office.
In 2008, as many as 73,200 Indians took off for Korea which represents a 7% growth over 2007. Shopping and seasonal variations are among the attractions being promoted by the country, along with wellness and medical tourism as per a report in TOI by Rachna Singh.
Taking a cue from the success of Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara in showcasing Spain as a tourist destination, the Korean tourism officials are also in contact with people in Mumbai for a film to be shot in Korea. "It has the direct impact of promoting tourism and adding jobs to the economy. It also gives us more opportunities to showcase the country, its values and culture," said Sang.
For instance, Spain recorded a 35% growth in tourist arrivals in 2010, and in the first seven months of 2011, it has only become better. India registered a 65% increase in demand for visas to Spain till August 2011. Film tourism offers destinations the opportunity to generate significant incremental revenue, tourist visits, and economic development.
According to the World Tourism Organisation estimates, by 2020, some 50 million Indians will be taking foreign holidays each year. Since film tourism is a growing phenomenon worldwide, fuelled by both the growth of entertainment industry and the increase in international travel, additional businesses can be created which can encourage the extension and strengthening of the tourist season.