Fuerteventura: A Gem of Tourism Promotion at Fitur 2019
Fuerteventura, one of the most beautiful islands in the Canary archipelago, recently showcased its tourism potential at the Fitur, the International Tourism Fair held in Madrid. As the island aims to bolster its tourism numbers, the event served as a significant platform to present promotional materials and a calendar of events designed to attract visitors from Spain and beyond.
A Bold Vision for 2019
The first day of the fair was marked by fruitful meetings between the delegation from Fuerteventura and various tour operators. The island is poised for a 12% increase in national tourism in 2019, building on a successful 2018 that saw 240,000 visitors from mainland Spain. With a stunning growth of over 36,500 visitors compared to the previous year, the representation of Fuerteventura at Fitur became a mission to sustain and enhance this upward trajectory.
Key Players in the Tourism Delegation
The delegation, led by Marcial Morales, the President of the Cabildo, included significant figures such as Blas Acosta, the Island’s Tourism Minister, and representatives from major municipalities. Their attendance underscored a unified approach to promoting the island’s various experiences, ensuring that from Puerto del Rosario to Pájara, every municipality had a voice.
Morales acknowledged the uncertainties posed by external factors, such as Brexit, but emphasized the proactive measures taken, especially in diversifying the profile of incoming tourists to mitigate any possible declines from the British market.
Navigating Change with a Focus on National Tourism
Blas Acosta, speaking at the event, highlighted the essential goal for 2019: to steadily regain the domestic market while accommodating a decline in international visitors. He underscored the increased participation of national tourists, which has proven invaluable in offsetting any international losses.
With a busy calendar of meetings arranged with tour operators and major airfare lines, Acosta expressed optimism that the local tourism sector would close the year with positive forecasts. Notably, Jet2 has announced plans to offer 400,000 seats for flights to Fuerteventura from the UK in 2019, showcasing a significant boost in connectivity.
Enhancing Tourist Experiences
During the event, one of the most exciting announcements was the introduction of a new tourist map designed by local youth specializing in animation. This new resource aims to enhance visitor experiences, guiding them effectively across the island’s diverse offerings.
Additionally, Fuerteventura’s push for digitalization included the launch of fuerteventurarural.org, a platform aimed at highlighting local resources, ranging from restaurants to ecotourism activities. This project aligns with the broader objective of promoting rural tourism and engaging visitors with the island’s sustainable practices.
Events and Festivals: A Cultural Tapestry
Fuerteventura’s municipalities took the opportunity to unveil their event calendars for 2019, brimming with cultural and recreational activities that promise to captivate both residents and visitors.
For instance, Puerto del Rosario introduced the ‘Fuerteventura Accessible’ initiative, designed for families and individuals with disabilities aiming to promote inclusivity in tourism. The Fuertetribu program for adaptive surfing also serves as a beacon of this goal.
The town’s presentation showcased upcoming events such as Carnival, the Achipenco Regatta, and various ecotourism activities, indicating a vibrant agenda aimed at enhancing the island’s unique cultural identity.
Culinary Adventures Await
Tuineje highlighted its culinary scene with the launch of a new gastronomic guide aimed at attracting food enthusiasts. The municipality also announced the return of traditional events like the International Big Game Fishing Open, capitalizing on its rich maritime heritage while engaging tourists in authentic local experiences.
Conversely, La Oliva centered its promotional efforts on arts and sports, showcasing popular events such as the International Kite Festival—a standout in Europe and the Cotilleando Festival that emphasizes the lively spirit of its community.
Celebrating Tradition and Innovation
Antigua and Pájara also presented their plans for 2019, with tourism agendas that blend tradition with innovative initiatives such as the ‘Ruta de la Tapa’ and sporting events like the Windsurf World Championship.
Finally, the delegation proudly announced a Guinness World Record attempt: the largest ham sandwich, an initiative aimed at raising both community spirit and funds for mental health initiatives.
Conclusion
With a well-planned strategy, Fuerteventura’s appearance at Fitur signifies its commitment to enhancing its tourism footprint. From enriching visitor experiences through cultural festivals to culinary explorations, the island is set to make 2019 a landmark year for attracting both national and international tourists.
