CATM 2008 Concludes in Managua, Nicaragua

Annual event gathers hundreds of buyers and suppliers from throughout Central
America

MANAGUA, Nicaragua, Oct. 23 /PRNewswire/ -- The fifth annual Central
American Travel Market (CATM) came to a successful close on Sunday, October
12, 2008 after three days of showcasing the region's best travel offerings.
More than 460 buyers and suppliers and 70 journalists came together for the
exposition, which took place for the first time in Nicaragua's capital,
Managua. More than 980 business meetings took place during the event.
The international expo was open to wholesalers, outbound tour operators
and travel buyers from Europe, Asia, North and South America & the Caribbean
with proven interest in Central American tourism.
Participants experienced the best of Nicaragua during hosted pre-tours
throughout the country and at VIP events in Managua and Granada. The inaugural
ceremony showcased folkloric performances in one of Managua's most spectacular
venues - the Ruben Dario National Theater - a 1,200-seat concert hall named
after the country's renowned poet. Other events included a dinner in the
colonial city of Granada, at an 18th-century restored fortress, with live
music from one of Nicaragua's most celebrated musical groups. Sunday
evening's closing celebration was sponsored by El Salvador, the host country
for CATM 2009.
"The great success of CATM 2008 reinforces Nicaragua's appeal as a site
for major corporate meetings and events," says Nicaragua's Minister of
Tourism, Mario Salinas. "Nicaraguans are renowned for their hospitality and
warmth," he adds. "Combined with a much improved infrastructure and incredible
value, Nicaragua is a competitive and attractive offering for organizations
seeking world-class services, venues and amenities at affordable prices."
"In addition," he adds, "Nicaragua is making significant strides in the
areas of sustainable and rural tourism. During 2009 we will be placing great
emphasis on helping local communities develop their travel offerings."
CATM's trade show days took place October 10-12, 2008, with pre-tours
starting on the 7th and post-tours of the other member countries commencing on
the 13th.
From March 24-26, 2009, the Central America Tourism & Hotel Investment
Exchange (CATHIE) will gather hotel and tourism industry leaders in Managua to
discuss investment opportunities in Central America. The event will
incorporate a conference program, exhibit hall and one-on-one meetings, and
will be sponsored by the Foreign Investment Advisory Service (FIAS). For more
information, visit www.cathieconference.com .
SOURCE Nicaragua Tourism Board

Tyler Sminkey, YB Communications, Inc., +1-786-390-8510,
tyler@ybcommunications.com