Maldives moves to mitigate Thomas Cook bankruptcy's affect on tourism

Minister of Tourism Ali Waheed on Wednesday revealed that the ministry, Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI) and other relevant government institutions are working to mitigate the effect of travel agency Thomas Cook's bankruptcy on Maldives' tourism.

Minister Waheed revealed that work was being carried out to provide ease of travel to and from Maldives for holidaymakers impacted by the German travel agency's liquidation ever since the company announced bankruptcy on Monday. He elaborated that a new help desk was established at Velana International Airport (VIA) solely to aid tourists 'stranded' in Maldives after arriving via Thomas Cook airlines.

Describing that such events happen instantaneously, he said that the Tourism Ministry is prepared to face the occurrences as part of ongoing efforts to distinguish Maldives' exemplary tourism as incomparable to other destinations.

While a large number of holidaymakers opt for Thomas Cook to visit the country, the Tourism Minister declared that the ministry would not permit it to impede Maldives' tourism. He said that the institution is mobilising mitigation efforts by replanning upcoming projects and other methods.

"The government would like to assure that every measure is being taken to counteract adverse affects [of Thomas Cook's bankruptcy] on tourism", said Minister Waheed.

He further revealed that many resorts are aiding the ministry's efforts to cater to passengers arriving via Thomas Cook airlines. The efforts include implementing systems to arrange free accommodation for 'stranded' tourists.

"We want the tourists to wish to return to the Maldives in the near future".

Minister Ali Waheed expressed gratitude to all the resorts that have contributed to the ministry's efforts to aid tourists impacted by Thomas Cook's closure.