By Netpal Travel Bureau
The World Travel Market (WTM) 2025 took place on Nov 4 – 6, once again became
the convergence point for the global travel community, bringing together the leaders,
innovators, and visionaries to chart the future of tourism. This year, India’s presence
was particularly significant, highlighting how its timeless heritage and contemporary
aspirations are creating experiences that appeal travelers from across the world.
WTM 2025 showcased the evolving priorities of the travel industry. Sustainability,
technology-driven solutions, and immersive cultural experiences dominated
conversations, reflecting a shift in traveler expectations.
WTM London 2025 has unveiled the winners of its annual Best Stand Awards –
comprising of three categories across design, doing business and on-stand features.
With judging taking place on day one of the show, this year the panel included Bruce
Martin, CEO, Travel Gossip; James Campion, Head of Exhibition Sales, Excel
London; Hugo McCullagh, Communications Officer, Just a Drop; and Matthew
Gardiner, Director, Travel Massive.
Best Stand Design
In the Middle East, the Best Stand Design was won by Jordan, for the “bold façade
which magnificently displayed what the country has to offer in terms of ancient
culture”. Over in the Americas, the award went to Antigua & Barbuda. The judges
enthused: “This stand did very well to recreate an island vibe through their relaxed,
comfortable, and welcoming space”.
In Africa, Best Stand Design was handed to Gambia, with judges commenting on how
“their jungle themed stand showcased the very best of Gambian nature and culture in
an eye-catching, visual and immersive display”.
Europe’s Andalusia was praised for its design. Judges said: “This was certainly an
eye-catching stand with its orange neon evocative recreating one of the destinations
iconic sunsets. It looked, and felt, like a welcoming and warming place”.
China was another, praised for its “well-thought-out design”. Judges particularly
noted the bamboo features and use of sustainable seating materials which gave a
“sleek look”.
Best Stand for Doing Business
Oman took the accolade in the Middle East. Judges commented: “within its high
walls and grand design, Oman’s stand retained a very cosy, comfortable and relaxed
setting – perfect for conducting meetings”. Also in the South Hall, Peru’s stand was
celebrated for being “inherently Peruvian while maintaining a cosy and quiet meeting
space.”
South Africa was recognised thanks to the “real buzz it had about it”. Judges
commented “we could see business taking place very smoothly in such a nice
setting”, while Sri Lanka’s “big hubbub of activity” earned them a spot in Best Stand
for Doing Business.
Best Stand Feature
The Dominican Republic was praised for its “extremely captivating” interactivity,
with some mentioning “we could have stayed there for hours!
Another accolade was scooped by Cabo Verde which “wowed again with an
impressively curated film giving a true insight into the diverse tourism opportunities
that Cabo Verde has to offer”.
Beyond showcasing destinations, WTM 2025 emphasized the importance of
responsible tourism. Eco-conscious practices, community-driven initiatives, and
experiences that respect local traditions emerged as key factors in attracting
discerning travelers.
WTM 2025 underscored that the future of travel is not just about places, but about
curating journeys that connect people, culture, and ideas. India’s active engagement
at the event reflects its commitment to shaping this future — a future where heritage
meets modernity, and where the world experiences India in its full richness,
diversity, and timeless charm.