At the recent 15th World Tourism Event (WTE) in Genoa, Italy, the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) highlighted cultural tourism as vital for the region’s growth. CTO representatives discussed how promoting Caribbean heritage could diversify tourism, strengthen community identities, and support sustainable practices. The event fostered international dialogue aimed at improving tourism offerings while preserving the unique cultural identity of the Caribbean.
At the 15th World Tourism Event (WTE) held in Genoa, Italy, the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) passionately emphasized the significance of cultural tourism in shaping the future of the Caribbean region. Hosted by UNESCO’s Transcultura program, the event’s theme revolved around “Integrating Cuba, the Caribbean, and the European Union through Culture and Creativity.” Narendra Ramgulam, the CTO’s Sustainable Tourism Consultant, illuminated the need to showcase the Caribbean’s rich heritage, saying, “By highlighting our unique traditions, music, cuisine, festivals, and historical sites, cultural tourism enhances the Caribbean’s global appeal and attracts a wider audience of travelers seeking authentic experiences.” This endeavor not only draws visitors but also nurtures local cultures and fosters community identity. Cultural tourism serves to diversify the Caribbean’s tourism portfolio, diminishing the region’s dependency on the traditional sun-and-sea offerings. This advancement ensures that economic benefits permeate various localities, enhancing inclusivity and resilience in the community. The WTE convened global tourism leaders and policymakers who focused on sustainable development of heritage tourism products, paving the way for vital discussions and collaborative strategies. During the event, the Caribbean was prominently showcased through a dedicated stand that highlighted its World Heritage destinations and vibrant culture. Ramgulam, alongside former CTO Sustainable Tourism Specialist Amanda Charles, participated in a panel exploring the paths and pitfalls of sustainable cultural tourism in the Caribbean. Ramgulam expressed gratitude for the platform, calling it an “invaluable opportunity to share our region’s experiences” and advocating for responsible tourism practices. Dona Regis-Prosper, CTO Secretary-General and CEO, noted that the event reaffirmed the CTO’s commitment to furthering sustainable cultural tourism. She stated, “This experience in Genoa reaffirms our commitment to advancing sustainable cultural tourism in the Caribbean.” Her comments reinforced the CTO’s growing role in international dialogue. Overall, the WTE event symbolized a vital stepping stone for the CTO in establishing cross-border relationships and continuing to uplift Caribbean tourism on the global stage. The discussions and insights shared marked not just a moment in time, but a movement towards a more sustainable and culturally rich future for tourism in the Caribbean.
The Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) is at the forefront of promoting sustainable tourism that encompasses the vibrant cultures, traditions, and natural beauty of Caribbean nations. The 15th World Tourism Event (WTE) brought together leaders and policymakers to discuss heritage tourism, particularly how it can drive sustainable economic growth in the Caribbean. With a backdrop of UNESCO’s Transcultura initiative, this event became a critical space for dialogue around the integration of cultural heritage with modern tourism practices in light of rising global travel demands.
The participation of the Caribbean Tourism Organization in the WTE underscored an essential focus on promoting cultural tourism as a cornerstone for sustainable development in the Caribbean. The discussions emphasized how cultural tourism not only enhances the region’s appeal but also supports community identity and economic resilience. As the Caribbean embraces this paradigm shift, the CTO’s efforts may serve to redefine the global tourism narrative, weaving the region’s rich tapestry of heritage into the larger framework of tourism worldwide.
Original Source: www.travelandtourworld.com
