The VII Annual International Spring Symposium on Tourism Development
On June 19 and 20, 2025, the beautiful island of Fuerteventura is set to host a significant event in the field of tourism. The VII Annual International Spring Symposium on Tourism Development is expected to bring together over a hundred tourism experts from 30 universities across the globe. This engaging forum aims to explore pressing challenges in the tourism sector and examine how sustainable practices can be integrated into its evolution.
Organized by Leading Institutions
The symposium is organized by the Institute of Tourism and Sustainable Economic Development (Tides) at the University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (ULPGC). This esteemed institution is known for its commitment to innovative research and practices in tourism and economy. The gathering will feature an impressive lineup of academic and professional leaders from both national and international backgrounds, providing a rich canvas of insights into sustainable tourism development.
Keynote Speakers
Among the distinguished speakers will be John Fahy, a marketing professor at the University of Limerick, Ireland. Renowned for his expertise in business strategies, Fahy has published over 100 articles in prestigious journals, shaping the landscape of marketing in the digital era. Attendees can also look forward to hearing from Cristina Figueroa Domecq, a researcher in tourism and spatial justice at Rey Juan Carlos University in Spain, and Carmelo J. León, a UNESCO chair at ULPGC specializing in tourism economics and sustainable development.
Digital Advances in Tourism
The symposium will be presided over by Teresa Aguiar, a prominent figure at ULPGC who serves as the Director of Scientific Dissemination and Transfer at Tides. Her expertise ensures that the discussions remain relevant and impactful, especially in this time of significant transformation in the tourism sector. Alongside her will be Jacques Bulchand, a professor in Business Organization at ULPGC, who has played a pivotal role in promoting digital advancements in tourism through various prestigious platforms.
Exploring Disruptive Factors in Tourism
One of the critical themes at this symposium will be the exploration of disruptive factors transforming the tourism industry. Experts will delve into how the Canary Islands can adapt to the new realities outlined by post-pandemic changes in traveler profiles. Today’s tourists increasingly seek authentic experiences, greater environmental respect, and meaningful connections with local communities. This shift presents both challenges and opportunities that will be key discussion points.
Industry Panel Discussions
An exciting feature of the event will be the Industry Panel, where leading figures in the tourism sector will discuss the obstacles and prospects companies face in this rapidly evolving landscape. This segment promises to ignite valuable conversations on adapting to change, enhancing competitiveness, and embracing sustainability.
Participants and Government Representation
Notable attendees include José Manuel Sanabria, the Vice-Counselor of Tourism for the Government of the Canary Islands; José Juan Lorenzo, the Director General of Tourism for the region; and Marlene Figueroa, the Tourism Counselor representing the Cabildo of Fuerteventura. Their involvement underscores the symposium’s importance in shaping regional tourism policies and fostering collaboration between academia and industry.
Networking and Collaboration
The VII Annual International Spring Symposium on Tourism Development not only serves as a platform for sharing knowledge and research but also fosters networking opportunities among academics, industry leaders, and policymakers. This collaboration is vital for developing innovative solutions that address the pressing challenges facing the tourism sector today.
As this unique assembly unfolds, participants will undoubtedly leave with enhanced insights and valuable connections, paving the way for a more resilient and sustainable future in tourism, particularly in the enchanting Canary Islands.
