Tourism experts and politicians also described tourism as an antidote to war and terror.

In front of 2500 invited guests, ITB Guest of Honour Albania invited visitors on an acoustic and visual journey – through landscape, traditions and cultural heritage. Motto: "Albania All Senses" – for all the senses.

The duo Shokdra Elektronike, who will represent Albania at the Eurovision Song Contest (ESC), presented the modern side of the Balkan country. On the other hand, the national ensemble fascinated with ancient folk dances – from the martial sword dance to the dramatic dance of Osman Taka.

Travelling is booming and boomingAlbania's star chef Genti Malaveci satisfied the sense of taste with traditional flavours. The powerful show was complemented by speeches from WTTC President Julia Simpson and UN tourism chief Zurab Pololikashvili, among others.

"Until the early 1990s, the only guests from West Germany were the players of the national team," says Rama. Among other things, a hairdresser at the airport ensured that the hair and beards of travellers were shorn short – a condition for entering the country.

Today, twelve million tourists come here, 400,000 of them from Germany. Their appearance doesn't matter.

The ITB continues until Thursday. The 5800 exhibitors from 170 countries are again expecting over 100,000 visitors. ‘We are fully booked,’ said trade fair director Mario Tobias.