The Dhiraagu Guesthouses Maldives Conference 2017 was held at Paradise Island Resort and Spa on September 23, 2017. Guesthouses Maldives, a product of Maldives Getaways is the only platform in the Maldives promoting the guesthouse industry in the international markets for the past three years.
This is the second annual Guesthouses conference organized by Maldives Getaways. During the conference, Maldives Getaways announced that they would also be hosting the first-ever Guesthouses Maldives Expo in May 2018.
At the Conference, experts in their fields shared their insights on various topics that were critical to the guesthouses industry of Maldives. Speakers included members from Accor Hotels, Booking.com, STO Home Improvement, Hatton National Bank, and more.
GROWTH OF GUESTHOUSES IN THE MALDIVES
Over the last several years, more and more guesthouses have been opening across the country. This is due to an ever-increasing “budget” sector that has been making its way to the Maldives.
From just 1 guesthouse in the Maldives in 2010, there are now over 600 guesthouses across 76 islands.
Unlike large resorts and hotel chains, guesthouses often have limited budgets for international marketing and trade shows. However, there is growing support for guesthouses to work together with the government to promote this market overseas.
These guesthouses provide a huge benefit to islanders, and are aimed at helping support local communities. Building the guesthouse market also provides a range of options for travellers who cannot afford to, or would prefer not to stay in luxury hotels.
ONESTOP AT DHIRAAGU GUESTHOUSES MALDIVES CONFERENCE 2017
At the conference, onestop took part as a Gold Partner for this one-day event of business meetings, education sessions and networking.
During the education sessions, onestop Co-founder and partner Shaffiq Olia able to share information regarding the growth, and approximate budget required for guesthouse furniture. This also included the unveiling of a new A+F range by onestop.
The onestop display at the conference showcased 4 different room styles, including loose furniture and accessories. During the event, guests were able to view the actual furniture and even test it out.