Thursday, March 7, 2024
Travel And Tour World had the opportunity to interview Paula Llobet, Councillor of Tourism, Ayuntamiento de València, at FITUR.
Travel And Tour World: What is the main strategy for promoting your region?
Paula Llobet: Absolutely, sustainability is at the forefront of our initiatives, inviting visitors to explore Valencia in eco-friendly ways, encompassing transportation, dining, and sightseeing. Our city’s strategic location by the Mediterranean, coupled with some of Europe’s most stunning beaches, positions us uniquely. We’re not just about the sea; our efforts to conserve and highlight natural treasures extend to our natural lake and the lush orchards that define our landscape.
Moreover, Valencia’s gastronomy and the expansive Turia Garden, stretching over 9 kilometers and boasting the title of Europe’s largest urban garden, are central to our sustainable tourism ethos. These green spaces and culinary delights are integral to our identity, as are our cultural offerings. With top-notch museums, architecture, and a vibrant music scene reflecting our rich musical heritage, we aim to weave these elements into a compelling narrative for the world.
Our commitment to sustainability also embraces sports, with the Valencia Marathon serving as a beacon, drawing enthusiasts globally to our annual road running event. This holistic approach, integrating the richness of our natural resources, culture, and sporting excellence, is designed to deliver unparalleled experiences to our visitors, showcasing Valencia as a model of sustainable urban tourism.
Travel And Tour World: Can you talk about the connectivity of communication in Valencia?
Paula Llobet: In fact, our city has a vast public transit system that makes it easy to get around the city. In addition to our focus on bike-friendly initiatives, the addition of new bus lines that serve the city center directly highlights our dedication to connectivity. In addition, we have made sure that important spots are conveniently reachable on foot to accommodate a variety of walking preferences throughout the city.
Travel And Tour World: Since Valencia has both historical buildings and modern architecture, how do you want to strike a balance between them while promoting?
Paula Llobet: Yes, our city has one of the largest historical centers in Europe, filled with many UNESCO-protected structures. To facilitate exploration and appreciation of this architectural wealth, we’ve compiled a comprehensive guidebook that lists over 650 significant structures scattered across various neighborhoods. It emphasizes the significance of heritage awareness by offering comprehensive insights into the architectural style, year of construction, and purpose of each building, accompanied by a digital application.
Moreover, alongside our treasured historical patrimony, we’ve embraced the integration of modern architecture, contributing to a vibrant ecosystem that’s increasingly recognized across Spain. This blend of ancient and contemporary structures not only underscores our city’s rich cultural tapestry but also bridges the gap between antiquity and modernity. It’s a unique juxtaposition that offers a fascinating visual and experiential journey for all who visit, highlighting our commitment to preserving the past while innovatively shaping our urban landscape.
Travel And Tour World: What can you tell us about the MICE facilities?
Paula Llobet: At the heart of Valencia’s commitment to modernity and sustainability stands the Palacio de Congresos de Valencia, our premier convention center. This architecturally striking facility is a testament to our dedication towards eco-friendly practices, with solar panels and renewable energy sources at the forefront of our sustainability efforts. Moreover, we’re investing significantly in cutting-edge technology to ensure seamless operations for business conventions and conferences. Looking ahead to 2024, we’re optimistic about Valencia’s tourism sector expanding by 25%. This growth projection reflects the strategic moment we’re in, bolstered by our comprehensive accommodations, including an array of large hotels and MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) facilities. It’s an exciting time for Valencia, as we offer a blend of modern infrastructure and sustainable innovation to visitors and professionals alike.
Tags: architecture, connectivity, fitur, MICE, sustainability, Tourism, Valencia
Saturday, April 27, 2024
