Xavier Espasa, General Director of the Catalan Tourist Board spoke about Catalonia’s participation in FITUR, the International Tourism Fair in Madrid, which took place between the 20-24 January 2016.
«FITUR has been the kick-off event of Catalonia, European Region of Gastronomy 2016 and the Year of Gastronomy and Wine Tourism. For this reason, gastronomy has had an outstanding role in the Catalan stand. Using the slogan of the “Cataluña es tu casa” (Catalonia is your home) campaign, the stand has transformed itself as a typical kitchen with its own pantry. The stand also enabled visitors to enjoy a gastronomic journey in 360 degrees and 3D thanks to virtual reality glasses.
Catalonia has the honour to host the first award and title for 2016, together with the Minho region in Portugal. For Catalonia, it is a real challenge, a responsibility but also an opportunity to hold the Title of the European Region of Gastronomy.
Gastronomy is the cultural heritage of Catalonia, and nowadays, the Catalan cuisine is considered one of the most prestigious in the world. Therefore, the objective of this award is to promote food products and Catalan gastronomy as essential elements of our own identity, but also for the key actors in the touristic promotion of Catalonia. This award will definitely contribute to consolidate Catalonia as a destination that knows how to make its own gastronomy a key factor to generate wealth, added value and pride.»
3 febrero 2016
