After South East Asia, its Europe's turn to woo Indian tourists.

The French Tourist Office or the Maison de la France has set shop in India to promote France as an exciting and affordable destination.

According to market estimates, India is the fifth largest market for France in Asia, with approximately 1.5 lakh (Rs 150,000) Indians visiting France annually.

In fact, travel agents say France is one of the few tourist destinations in the West, which has seen a 25-30 per cent growth in tourists from India.

Catherine Oden, regional director, MDLF (South East Asia and India), said, "We are well aware of the growing potential of the Indian market and are planning to enhance our presence."

MDLF is targeting Mumbai, Delhi and Bangalore markets, and plans to open a full-fledged representative office within the next two years.

At present, MDLF is conducting an in-depth market survey to identify target audiences and provide an understanding of the Indian market to its partners, who include hoteliers, airlines and entertainment companies.

MDLF plans to introduce special packages tailored for the Indian market. Another area that MDLF is seeking an entry into is the MICE (meetings incentives conventions and exhibitions) segment, which is growing at 30-35 per cent annually.

It plans to project Nice, Cannes, Deauville and Evian as affordable MICE destinations.

As part of its marketing strategy in India, MDLF is planning to conduct joint promotions with other European countries and the Indian tourism department as well.

MDLF plans to launch an e-newsletter specifically for India and conduct seminars, familarisation tours for the Indian travel industry. The first seminar is being conducted between February 5 and February 7 in Mumbai and Delhi.

MDLF is placed under the authority of the French ministry of tourism and has a consolidated Budget of Rs 67.14 million.