The Africa Travel Association (ATA) announced today that registration is now open for the 36th Annual Congress, to be held from May 25-29, 2011 at the Le Méridien President in Dakar. Hosted by the Senegalese Ministry of Tourism and Handicrafts, Liaison with the Private Sector and Small Businesses, the theme of this year’s event is “Destination Senegal: A Tourism Gateway Inspired by Culture, Heritage and Arts.”

Delegates can register for the congress on-line at ATA’s website or call +1-212-447-1357. Special early bird registrations for ATA members are available until May 10, 2011.

The four-day networking and learning industry event engages delegates from around the world in discussions on a range of industry topics, such as marketing and promotions, niche markets, industry trends, sustainable tourism, climate change, airline access, public-private partnership, and tourism policy choices for Africa. The program also includes gala events and networking receptions. The Gambia will host the annual ATA President’s dinner, showcasing the West African country.

As part of the ATA Congress, delegates will participate in TICAA-Dakar, an international tourism travel show, where Africa’s tourism, culture and arts industries will be showcased. Special events include the Business-to-Business Exchange for Buyers and Sellers, in which travel professionals from the USA and Africa will have the opportunity to meet and develop business relationships and linkages, as well as a gala dinner featuring Senegalese folk wrestling. 

Senegal will also organize a Host Country Day, where delegates will visit Goree Island. Delegates will also explore the city of Dakar, shop at crafts markets and artists quarters, and visit the new African Renaissance monument.

ATA expects several hundred delegates at its hallmark event. Delegates include African tourism ministers and industry experts representing tourism boards, tour operators and their product development executives, front-line agents, ground operator companies, airlines, and hotels. Participants from the travel trade media and the corporate, non profit and academic sectors are also expected to attend, along with African Diaspora representatives. ATA’s Young Professional Network will also gather, bringing North American students and young professionals together with Africa counterparts.

Pre and post congress tours will be available. These tours offer delegates the opportunity to sample Senegal’s diverse tourism products and to explore the country’s new offerings.

The congress will take place at the Le Méridien President , a 10-minute drive from the airport.