To strengthen its presence in the Indian market, visit.brussels successfully wrapped up roadshows in Delhi and Mumbai on September 5th and 8th, respectively. These events drew over 150 key partners, luxury agents, and media. Amidst Belgian delights like beer, waffles, fries, and chocolates, Belgian partners and Visit Brussels representatives showcased the country’s latest offerings. The Mumbai event also emphasised Belgium’s student programs, attended by Indian schools and universities.

The Delhi roadshow took place at the residence of H.E. Mr. Didier Vanderhasselt, the Belgian Ambassador to India, while the Mumbai workshop occurred at a prominent Lower Parel hotel. It was graced by Chief Guest H.E. Frank Geerkens, Consul General of Belgium in Mumbai, along with Trade Commissioner Emmanuelle Timmermans (AWEX) and Mr. Fatih Karakoc, General Manager of Turkish Airlines for Western and Southern India. Pieter Callebaut, International Business Developer at visit.brussels, led the delegation in both cities.

Key delegates included Pieter Callebaut (visit.brussels), Philippe Steenbergen (Mini-Europe), Peggy Van Lierde (Choco Story Brussels), Tania Ter-Ossepiantz & Maarten Evenepoel (Brussels Airport), Eric Bruyninckx (Atomium), Jean-Marcel Thomas & Xhandros Molho (Euro Space Centre), and Ratna Rai (Amigo Hotel).

Presenting the reimagined offerings of the City of Brussels, Callebaut stated, “India is a crucial market for us, and we’re actively working on strategies to enhance its appeal to Indian travellers. These roadshows allowed us to reconnect with the travel trade fraternity and underscore our commitment to this incredible market.”

Ellona Pereira, Head of AVAIREPS India & visit.brussels India Representative, commented on the positive tourism trends for 2023 and the exciting prospects for Brussels as a destination for Indian travellers.

In 2022, Brussels saw 35,000 overnight stays from India, with 56% leisure travellers and 44% business travellers. Half of the departures were from Mumbai, and around 20% were from New Delhi.

What’s New in 2023:

1. The Belgian Beer World: On September 9, 2023, The Belgian Beer World opened its doors for the first time, offering an immersive experience within the iconic Brussels Stock Exchange building. This 12,000-square-meter facility celebrates Belgium’s beer culture and its global impact.

2. 2023 – The Year of Art Nouveau in Brussels: This year marks the 130th anniversary of the Art Nouveau movement in Brussels, with various events and initiatives showcasing its diversity.

3. A Must-Visit – Gare Maritime (Tour et Taxis): The renovated former freight station, Gare Maritime, now retains its architectural heritage and offers a range of experiences, including events, retail, a food market, park, urban gardening, guided tours, expos, and dining options.

4. Brand New Hotel Properties: Stylish boutique hotels like Juliana Hotel, The Hoxton, and Mix Brussels will welcome guests in 2023, while five-star luxury hotels like Astoria and Cardo Brussels are scheduled to open in 2024.