For a first edition, the Market Talks were a real success.
The agenda included an in-depth analysis of the tourist markets of China, North America, and Russia.
China
According to the Côte d’Azur France tourism observatory, China is the world’s leading tourism market in terms of overseas spending. Most visitors come in groups for leisure.
Catherine Oden, director of Atout France, and Nicolas Groelly, operations director at Europass, shared their thoughts on the future of Chinese tourism towards France and the Côte d’Azur.
Several weaknesses were highlighted. The main ones indicate a significant decrease (10 to 15%) in the issuance of visas. Air arrivals saw a decline from June to November 2019. Chinese tourists are opting for cheaper destinations. On the other hand, Paris is the most connected European capital. Furthermore, a Beijing-Nice route will be established in August 2019, and four routes are also planned from Paris (Guiyang, Qingdao, and Wuhan).
Chinese tourists are often under thirty-five and are highly connected. To grow attraction, professionals must focus on communication through popular networks like WeChat.
Canada
For the Côte d’Azur France tourism observatory, it is a stable market. It is leisure tourism, with almost no business tourism. Over half of hotel stays are in 4 or 5-star accommodations.
Marine Juillet de Saint-Lager, marketing manager in Canada, highlighted the strengths and weaknesses during the Market Talks.
After the attacks, stays were slightly reduced, but Europe has made a comeback in the competition. The exchange rate is more favorable in 2019, and air connectivity is developing. However, some parts of Quebec see France as an expensive destination, and the yellow vests have left an impression.
Quebecers are attracted by the French art of living, wine, gastronomy, and typical dishes. To attract more tourists, more intense communication, increased accessibility, and a stronger presence online are needed.
Brazil
France receives 1.2 million annual stays, but on the Côte d’Azur, Brazilian presence is still rare. Communication and airline connections need to be developed.
Russia
It is a very promising market for the Côte d’Azur. With a young clientele and high spending, Russians offer a great advantage for Nice and its surroundings. Russian clients expect special attention during their stays. They are familiar with and appreciate French culture.
According to Anya Kondratkova, sales coordinator at Etoile Voyage Luxury, the coastline has many positive points, but several aspects need improvement. There aren’t enough activities like ballet or opera. Restaurant service could also be enhanced, for example.
