The Tourist Office of Spain in Toronto recently convened an influential gathering of Canadian media, academics, and leaders from the tourism sector at the STORYS building for an event titled “Spain Talks.” This thought-provoking forum focused on the contemporary challenges and innovative solutions associated with sustainable tourism. The evening featured keynote speakers and expert panels that put Spain’s successful sustainability initiatives to the forefront, encouraging collaborative opportunities with Canada.
“Spain Talks is not only about promoting tourism to Spain,” stated Alfredo Martínez Serrano, Ambassador of Spain to Canada, during his opening remarks. “It’s about fostering a common platform where two culturally and naturally diverse countries can collaborate and work towards positive outcomes.”
Isabel Martín Benítez, Consul of Tourism Affairs in Canada, along with esteemed representatives from the Valencia Region Tourism Board and a delegation from Lanzarote Island, graced the event, highlighting Spain’s commitment to sustainable tourism.
Key Discussions on Sustainable Tourism
The event featured panels such as “How to Maintain Balance Between Local Populations and Tourists” and “Designing an Inclusive Tourism Industry.” Notable experts like Dr. Rachel Dodds, Professor at the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management at Toronto Metropolitan University, and Fergus Maclaren, Professor Emeritus from the International Cultural Tourism Committee (ICOMOS), shared invaluable insights on sustainable practices.
Additionally, Maayan Ziv, CEO and Founder of AccessNow, and Miguel Carrasco, Director of Accessible Tourism from Spain’s Tur4All, contributed to discussions on enhancing accessibility in tourism destinations.
Unveiling Awards for Sustainable Excellence
The Toronto edition of Spain Talks is part of a broader series held in prominent European cities, including London, Istanbul, and Stockholm, and marks its inaugural appearance in Canada. Alongside the engaging dialogues, the Tourist Office honored achievements in sustainable tourism with several awards:
- Media Award: Celebrating outstanding media coverage of Spain’s sustainable practices, awarded to Canadian Geographic Magazine.
- Ambassador Award: Acknowledging writers supporting international sustainability, awarded to freelance travel writer Jennifer Bain.
- Experience Award: Recognizing Spain’s most authentic and sustainable tourism products, awarded to Kensington Travel.
- Business Award: Honoring companies with exemplary ESG credentials, awarded to Le Germain Hotels.
Building Bridges for Future Collaboration
“Spain Talks Toronto signifies the onset of a stronger collaborative relationship between Spain and Canada in the realm of sustainable tourism,” said Consul Martín Benítez. “With Spain now ranking as one of the top destinations for Canadians, our nations are experiencing enhanced connectivity. Together, we can exemplify successful sustainable tourism policies and foster an even more profound relationship moving forward.”
For further information on Spain, its sustainability programs, and tourism initiatives, visit the official website at Spain.info.
