Moldova. Sport, Leisure, Tourism

We had never visited the Tourism exhibition in Chisinau before and decided that 2003 was the year to try. As we had heard a lot of conflicting reports about the state of the country our expectations were not high.

First the flight with Air Moldova was most pleasant with excellent friendly staff. Chisinau airport is another pleasant surprise as it is modern and clean, however the $.60.- visa is a little excessive.

Chisinau is a fascinating city with many different faces with tall Soviet blocks mixing with low level traditional housing.

The exhibition centre was, initially, another pleasant surprise. Modern and bright it was not what we expected. However as the day continued we noted that most of the Exhibitors also kept their coats on. The temperature in the Exhibition hall could not have been more than 10њC and this was not conducive to business negotiations. It was interesting to note however that the organisers offer was very well heated. Some priorities are round the wrong way.

There were a good number of exhibitions for a relatively small exhibition. There were many local travel companies and a substantial number of suppliers from Most neighbouring Romania but a few International pioneers were also to be seen. We were not surprised to meet the Universal Tourism Alliance(UTA) team at this event as these 'pioneers' really participate at most events. Other International representatives were Cyprus, Turkey & Thailand

In this issue:- Moscow International Summer Workshop report Moldova. Cold feet but warm hearts! MITT2003 A show report 1st Golf & Luxury Travel Workshop a great success Report on the UITT Exhibition in Kiev Russians demonstrate their desire to travel Special Report:- Golf Travel Starts from Russia