International Tourism Day, celebrated every year on September 27, is a significant date on the global calendar.
Especially in privileged places like Tenerife, where tourism is one of the main sources of income and an indispensable economic pillar. But what is really celebrated on this day?
This day was established by the World Tourism Organization (WTO) in 1980, with the intention of highlighting and recognizing the importance that tourism has around the world. The essential purpose of this day is to raise awareness in the international community about the social, cultural, political, and economic value of tourism.
Tourism is a sector that not only generates wealth and employment, but also promotes cultural diversity and the exchange between people of different origins. Additionally, it is a means for the preservation and promotion of natural and cultural heritages at a global level. By celebrating International Tourism Day, we are recognizing all these contributions and highlighting the need to protect and foster this sector.
In a broader context, this day is a reminder of how tourism can contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These goals, established by the United Nations, aim to combat global problems such as poverty, inequality, and climate change. Tourism has an important role to play in this sense, as it can drive sustainable economic growth, create decent jobs, promote culture and local products, and protect the environment.
In Tenerife, where tourism is such a relevant sector, International Tourism Day is celebrated with a series of events and activities that highlight the beauty and diversity of the island, promoting sustainability and responsible tourism.