afrol News, 17 September - Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (TATO) is predicting that number of inbound international tourists traveling to Tanzania will double by 2012.

This announcement was made in a new market data study released yesterday.

Tourism is number one industry in Tanzania and east African country is reportedly emerging as a top tourist destination for travellers around world, with a wide range of outdoor, cultural and wildlife activities.

TATO, country's leading organisation for development and coordination across tourism industry, is also celebrating its 25th anniversary this month.

Group is said to be playing a vital role in development and growth of tourism industry in Tanzania by providing its nearly 250 members with latest information, advice, and tools needed to capitalise on influx of tourists visiting the country.

Study shows that as number of tourists visiting Tanzania increases, TATO will work closely with its members to use technology to improve quality of service, from online booking systems to actual travel arrangements and accommodations.

"Tanzania's natural tourism product is, in many ways, unparalleled in Africa. However, tourist experience is not measured alone on beach or wildlife product," TATO executive Secretary, Mustapha Akunnay said.

He added that it is whole continuum that starts when tourist first arrives in country until the moment they leave.

Study further indicates that TATO is working across tourist value chain to improve experience for each and every tourist entering the country.

While key travel destinations in Tanzania include Serengeti, Mount Kilimanjaro, and Zanzibar, there are numerous national parks and a largely undeveloped coastline, providing additional tourist sites across country.

There are extensive, but largely unvisited areas set aside as national parks, game reserves and conservation areas.

Most local people, villages and tribes reportedly rely heavily on tourists travelling through their regions, and by helping tour companies across Tanzania grow their business, TATO is also making a significant impact on economy at a country and local level.

Meanwhile, IBM's corporate service corps is said to be helping TATO improve its use of new technologies and communications strategies to work more efficiently and effectively with its members.

According to study, IBM team is currently working with TATO to re-launch its website and establish stronger relationships with members and tourists.

IBM's Corporate Service Corps is a new programme designed to give employees an opportunity to work in emerging markets alongside colleagues from around world.

By bringing together employees from different geographies, cultures and areas of expertise, IBM is encouraging development of new skills as more markets play a role in global economy.

By staff writer

© afrol News

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