With exhibition space at a premium at WTM this year, there are many new 'faces' and exhibitors who have taken increased space.
Africa and Asia are sending a large contingent of exhibitors with Africa showing a projected growth of 30 per cent from 2001 and Asia set to have the largest turn out ever with Garuda Airlines and the region of Mayanmar, just two of the first-time exhibitors from the region. Taj Hotels have increased their stand space to 80 square metres and Hong Kong, Singapore and Thailand have all confirmed a major presence. Additionally, New Zealand, Fiji and Tahiti have created an 'Australasian' block highlighting the growth of interest in the countries. The Central European Countries Travel Association (CECTA), featuring many key tourist boards in the region will be located together for the first time. Switzerland will be unveiling their new stand design for the first time; Russia have doubled their space and have designed a special model of St Petersburg to celebrate the city's 300th anniversary and Armenia will be sending an increased contingent. The Middle East region sees Yemen and Algeria being represented for the first time whilst the Americas will be out in force with the Caribbean and Latin America both up 15 per cent and 25 per cent respectively on last year.