Tag: United Nations

First global gastronomy tourism startup competition

Steamed and fried sea urchin and lotus root. Wash it down with some local sake (rice wine). This is at a restaurant in Iwakuni, close to Miyajima

October 23 (TravelAndy): The World Tourism Organization and Basque Culinary Center (BCC), have launched a pioneering initiative for the gastronomic tourism sector, with a global call for startups or companies, mature or emerging, technological and non-technological, with innovative ideas capable of revolutionizing and integrating gastronomy in tourism and inspiring tourists with new ways and reasons to travel.

The gastronomic tourism sector is moving towards innovation and the diversification of its offerings. UNWTO, in collaboration with its Affiliated Member, Basque Culinary Center (BCC), has launched the 1st UNWTO Gastronomy Tourism Startup Competition, the first and largest initiative in the world dedicated to identifying new companies that will lead the transformation of the gastronomic tourism sector.

Intangible cultural heritage has become the decisive factor that attracts and captivates tourists. Gastronomy tourism, as a component and vehicle of culture and tradition, is an indispensable resource that adds value and provides solutions for destinations that seek to stand out through unique product offerings. Continue reading First global gastronomy tourism startup competition →

International tourism maintains strong momentum

October 11, 2018 Travel News Andy

Tourists queue up to get into the bell tower (out of frame in the left) at St Mark’s Square in Venice

October 10 (TravelAndy): International tourist arrivals grew 6% in the first six months of 2018 after a record year of growth in 2017, reveals the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO)’s latest barometer.

All world regions enjoyed robust growth in tourist arrivals in January-June 2018. The increase was fuelled by strong demand from major source markets, supported by an upswing in the global economy. It comes after record year-round growth of 7% in 2017.

“Today’s release of international tourism data for the first half of 2018 serves as further proof of the sector’s resilience and relentless growth trajectory. We continue to work with our many partners to translate this growth into better jobs, more benefits to societies, and more opportunities for sustainable livelihoods and destinations”, said UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili. Continue reading International tourism maintains strong momentum →