Fuerteventura to Host International Symposium on Tourism in 2025
A Groundbreaking Initiative
On a bright Wednesday morning, a significant collaboration was forged between the El Cabildo Insular de Fuerteventura, the Patronato de Turismo, and the University of Greenwich in London. This partnership will culminate in an International Symposium set to occur on June 19 and 20, 2025, on the stunning island of Fuerteventura. The symposium aims to gather specialists and researchers from across Europe to delve into emerging trends in the tourism sector, coinciding with the VII SSTD 2025 annual conference organized by the UNESCO Chair of Tourism and Sustainable Economic Development (TIDES) from the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC).
Key Players in Tourism Development
The meeting at the University of Greenwich brought together notable figures, including Lola García, President of the Cabildo, and Marlene Figueroa, the Island’s Tourism Councillor. Alongside them was Andrés Coca Stefaniak, the Dean of the University and President of the International Association of Tourism Researchers, as well as Teresa Aguiar Quintana, a Professor from ULPGC. This ensemble marked the formalization of a collaboration designed to transform Fuerteventura into a hub for dialogue and analysis regarding the future of tourism in the age of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Symposium Focus and Themes
The upcoming symposium is poised to be comprehensive, addressing a myriad of pertinent topics related to tourism. Panels will tackle significant subjects such as innovation in public policies and tourism management, the challenges of sustainable tourism development, new governance structures, changing perspectives in supply and demand, and the intersection of neurotourism and neuromarketing with tourism. Furthermore, an exploration of the evolving training requirements for professionals in the hospitality industry will be a pivotal aspect of the discussions.
Venue and Notable Participants
Scheduled to take place at the Hotel R2 Rio Calma in Costa Calma, Pájara, the symposium will feature a diverse array of professionals who specialize in various facets of tourism. Esteemed speakers will include John Fahy, a Marketing Professor from the University of Limerick, Cristina Figueroa Domecq from Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, and the UNESCO Director for Tourism and Sustainable Development, Carmelo J. León, among others. Their participation underscores the symposium’s aim to elevate discussions to a level of academic rigor.
Fuerteventura’s Commitment to Innovation
In her remarks, President Lola García emphasized Fuerteventura’s role as a leader in tourism innovation. She articulated that recognizing the importance of new technologies is essential for transforming the sector towards a more sustainable model. Efficient management of the island’s resources is seen as a critical component for the future of tourism.
Addressing Sustainable Tourism Challenges
Tourism Councillor Marlene Figueroa echoed García’s sentiments, adding that this collaboration aims to solidify a foundation of rigorous research in the tourism domain. She pointed out that Fuerteventura, as a well-established and popular destination, faces significant challenges over the next decade. Discussions at the symposium will focus on sustainable development and enhancing the positive impacts of tourism on both the local economy and residents’ quality of life.
Context within Global Tourism Trends
This initiative also resonates with broader trends observed at international tourism venues. During the second professional day of the World Travel Market (WTM) in London, discussions spotlighted the growing importance of sustainability. As travelers increasingly seek destinations committed to responsible practices, Fuerteventura’s symposium aims to align with these expectations, promoting best practices in the tourism sector.
Insights from Industry Discussions
The recent meetings in London featured a busy itinerary with tour operators and airlines. A highlight was the participation of Jet2, which confirmed an increase in flight capacity for the winter season of 2024/25, with a promise to sustain this connectivity through to 2026. Such developments reflect a growing commitment to maintaining and enhancing access to Fuerteventura.
Moreover, García and Figueroa engaged with representatives from the ABTA (Association of British Travel Agents and Tour Operators) to propose collaborative efforts that could lead to a convention being held on the island. This discussion aligns with the island’s ongoing efforts to solidify its position as a premier tourist destination.
Through this symposium and collaborative initiatives, Fuerteventura reaffirms its commitment to enhancing the tourism sector, ensuring it evolves in alignment with contemporary demands, and securing a sustainable future.
