Go for Africa Expedition" Makes A Memorable Stop in Sierra Leone.

As the world increasingly becomes a global village, the bridges between continents, cultures, and peoples are being built not just with technology and trade, but also through the powerful medium of travel and hospitality. In a remarkable showcase of this spirit, Sierra Leone has emerged as a beacon of warmth and hospitality with the arrival of the "Go for Africa" expedition team. This February, which is celebrated as the month of Travel and Hospitality, has witnessed a groundbreaking moment as Best Travel Solutions (BTS), in a commendable partnership with the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs and The National Tourist Board of Sierra Leone, welcomed the "Go for Africa" team members at Gbalamuya, the Sierra Leone-Guinea border.

The "Go for Africa" expedition, an ambitious journey that started from the Netherlands and traversed through Senegal, The Gambia, Guinea Bissau, and finally unto Sierra Leone, represents a profound quest for cultural exchange, exploration, and the forging of new partnerships. Spearheaded by CEO Foday Fornah, BTS has taken the helm in leading this initiative with the vision of making Sierra Leone not just a checkpoint, but a significant destination on the map of global travel.

The team's arrival in Sierra Leone is not just a testament to the country's growing appeal as a travel destination but also highlights the untapped potential within its borders for sustainable tourism development. Sierra Leone, with its rich history, diverse culture, and breathtaking landscapes, offers a unique blend of experiences for the global traveler. The decision by the "Go for Africa" team to consider extending their tour to include Sierra Leone is a nod to the country's burgeoning status as a must-visit location.

The expedition team, upon arrival, was treated to the renowned hospitality of Sierra Leone, with an overnight stay arranged at the Family Kingdom resort. This was followed by a business meeting with BTS and Pastor Zachariah from the House of Hope Orphanage and School, the initial facilitator of this grand collaboration. Such meetings are crucial in laying the groundwork for future partnerships and initiatives that could drive tourism and socio-economic development in the region.

In addition to the formal engagements, the team is set to visit Kabala, a move that underscores the expedition's intent to explore and experience the diverse offerings of Sierra Leone. From its vibrant cities to the serene beauty of its rural landscapes, Sierra Leone is a country that promises to captivate and enchant its visitors.

As we reflect on the "Go for Africa" expedition's stop in Sierra Leone, it is clear that such initiatives are invaluable for the promotion of tourism awareness. Best Travel Solutions, under the leadership of Foday Fornah, has demonstrated a commendable commitment to leveraging these opportunities to showcase Sierra Leone on the global stage. The partnership with the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs and The National Tourist Board further amplifies the collective resolve to position Sierra Leone as a premier destination for travel and hospitality.

As the expedition moves forward, the legacy of its visit to Sierra Leone will undoubtedly linger, serving as a beacon for future explorers, adventurers, and cultural ambassadors. Sierra Leone, with its open arms and warm hearts, stands ready to welcome the world, one expedition at a time. The "Go for Africa" expedition is a vivid reminder of the power of travel to bridge divides, celebrate diversity, and foster a sense of global community.

Kai Bockarie-Saquee

Communications and P.R. Officer NTB. 

After an eventful participation at the Matka Nordic Travel Fair in Finland, Best Travel Solutions, in collaboration with Sierra Leone's Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs and The National Tourist Board, concluded the event with optimistic expectations on return on investment (ROI). The team's eyes are now set on the upcoming FITUR trade fair in Spain, slated for 24th to 29th January 2023.

Sierra Leone, often referred to as Explore Freedom of West Africa, has in recent years embarked on a journey to revitalize its tourism sector. With the support of strategic partnerships, the country has been making significant inroads in presenting its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural landscapes to the global travel markets.

The Matka Nordic Travel Fair, held annually in Helsinki, Finland, is one of the leading travel industry events in Northern Europe. It provides a platform for destinations, tour operators, and travel organizations from around the world to showcase their offerings and network with industry professionals. For Sierra Leone, participation in such an event is a step towards expanding its tourism footprint and attracting a broader audience to its shores.

During the fair, the Sierra Leonean delegation, led by Best Travel Solutions, engaged with travel trade professionals, media, and potential tourists. They highlighted the country's diverse attractions, including idyllic beaches, lush rainforests, and a vibrant cultural scene. The delegation's presence at the fair was also an opportunity to educate the travel community about Sierra Leone's progress in sustainable tourism and infrastructure development.

The efforts put forth at Matka were not just about branding and marketing. There was a strong business case with the intentions of solidifying partnerships and sparking interest among travel agencies and individual tourists alike. The delegation's objective was to translate the interactions and interest generated at the fair into tangible bookings and travel plans, thus ensuring a favorable ROI for Sierra Leone's burgeoning tourism sector.

With the close of the Matka trade fair, Best Travel Solutions and the Sierra Leonean cohort are gearing up for their next big event – FITUR in Madrid, Spain. FITUR is one of the world's largest tourism trade fairs and serves as a global meeting point for tourism professionals and a leading trade fair for inbound and outbound markets in Latin America.

The decision to continue onto FITUR is a clear indicator of the proactive strategy being employed by Sierra Leone and Best Travel Solutions with other key sector players to maintain the momentum gained in Finland. The team plans to build on the connections made at Matka and to further cultivate relationships with international tourism stakeholders.

At FITUR, the team intends to target a different segment of the European market by positioning Sierra Leone as a unique and compelling destination for Spanish-speaking tourists and beyond. The presence of Sierra Leone at such a prestigious event is also significant in that it showcases the country's recovery and openness for business.

The Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs and The National Tourist Board of Sierra Leone recognize the importance of these international trade fairs in the context of global tourism economics. Harnessing the of key tourism stakeholders from Sierra Leone to make a strong impression at FITUR, where the delegation will continue to promote the nation's tourism potential, negotiate deals, and establish Sierra Leone as a must-visit destination for travelers seeking authenticity and adventure.

#Explorefreedom 

#tourismforall

#tourismnaallmanbusiness

Dated: 20/01/2024