ANDORRA: Andorra To Host UNWTO Snow And Mountain Tourism Congress

Discussing the challenges and opportunities in snow and mountain tourism as well as evaluating new business models and the need to incorporate innovative and sustainable practices are the main objectives of the 9th World Congress on Snow and Mountain Tourism. The event, organized by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) and the Government of Andorra, will take place in Sant Julià de Lòria, Andorra, on 2-4 March.

The current importance of snow and mountain tourism makes this Congress more relevant than ever. The joint initiative was launched two decades ago as a common working platform between UNWTO and the Principality of Andorra.

'Snow and mountain tourism constitutes an added value to destinations and an opportunity for the development of local communities; nevertheless, we should never forget the importance of promoting the sustainable management of the natural resources considering that this type of tourism takes place in direct contact with nature' said UNWTO Secretary-General, Dr. Taleb Rifai, at the presentation of the Congress held at the Headquarters of the Organization.

The Minister of Tourism and Trade of Andorra, Francesc Camp, pointed out: 'Adventure tourism is one of the most dynamic segments and represents a strong driver and key element of growth. Moreover, it offers many possibilities for the development of destinations that want to enhance sustained growth. Sports, nature and cultural immersion are not only the main components of this segment of tourism but also the main axes used by destinations to create memorable, authentic and exciting experiences'.

This 9th edition of the World Congress, on the theme 'Mountainlikers, Sport and Adventure: A Promising Combination', will provide an opportunity for both the public and the private sectors to share experiences and examples of innovative tools that can drive the management and promotion of mountain destinations.

More than thirty experts from Europe, the Americas and Asia will discuss the most important factors in mountain tourism as well as the different options to further develop this segment, including innovative marketing tolls and products. Andorra, a leading mountain destination, represents an ideal setting to address these topics, particularly the possibilities to combine sport and adventure.