Tenerife South Airport Celebrates World Tourism Day with Traditional Welcome for Visitors
Tenerife South Airport marked World Tourism Day yesterday, Friday, with a vibrant celebration aimed at welcoming passengers arriving on the island. The event showcased a rich array of local products and cuisine, accompanied by live music and traditional dress, creating an immersive experience for visitors.
Event Highlights Local Culture and Cuisine
The event was organized by CIT Sur, the Centre for Initiatives and Tourism of the South, in collaboration with AENA. It was held under the theme of sustainable transformation of tourism, reflecting a growing awareness of the need for responsible travel practices. Arriving travellers were greeted with an engaging atmosphere featuring live music, traditional costumes, and a stand offering samples of local products. These included artisanal cheeses, exquisite wines, fresh fruit, almonds, and an assortment of traditional sweets.
This display not only highlighted the best of the region’s gastronomy but also showcased the craftsmanship of local artisans, providing visitors with an authentic taste of Tenerife. The event served as a reminder of the island’s rich cultural heritage and the importance of supporting local businesses.
Statements from Local Leaders
“Tourism isn’t just about seeing; it’s also about feeling and discovering,” stated Rafael Dolado, president of CIT Sur. He emphasized that the airport serves as the “first gateway” to the island, making it the perfect venue to share “our cuisine, our crafts, and our warmth” as part of an authentic welcome. Dolado’s remarks underscored the significance of creating memorable experiences for visitors right from their arrival.
In addition, Dolado highlighted the importance of promoting local, zero-mile products and small markets, advocating for a tourism model that “contributes positively and respects the land.” This approach not only benefits the local economy but also ensures that the natural beauty and cultural integrity of Tenerife are preserved for future generations.
Representing the Tenerife Cabildo, Efraín Medina Hernández, Councillor for Employment, Education, and Youth, echoed these sentiments. He reminded visitors that preserving cultural identity is crucial so that tourists leave “with an authentic image of who we are.” This focus on cultural preservation is vital in an era where globalization often threatens local traditions.
Tourism councillors from several of the southern municipalities attended the event, showcasing a united front in promoting the region. Eudita Mendoza Navarro (Granadilla de Abona), the host municipality, highlighted the value of teamwork in strengthening Tenerife’s image as a premier destination. She noted that collaboration among local governments is essential for enhancing the overall visitor experience.
Mendoza was joined by fellow councillors Luz Goretti Gorrín Ramos (Santiago del Teide), Joaquín Cabrera Tejera (Vilaflor de Chasna), and Laura Paiz Acosta (San Miguel de Abona). Together, they emphasized the need for strong institutional collaboration to project a united and sustainable “authentic South” to the world. Their collective efforts aim to ensure that Tenerife remains a sought-after destination while maintaining its unique cultural identity.
Key points
- Tenerife South Airport celebrated World Tourism Day on Friday.
- The event featured local products, cuisine, music, and traditional dress.
- CIT Sur and AENA organized the event under the theme of sustainable tourism transformation.
- Rafael Dolado emphasized the importance of sharing local culture at the airport.
- Efraín Medina Hernández highlighted the need to preserve cultural identity.
- Tourism councillors from southern municipalities attended and stressed collaboration.
The celebration at Tenerife South Airport not only served as a warm welcome for visitors but also as a platform for promoting sustainable tourism practices. By showcasing local culture and products, the event reinforced the idea that tourism can be a force for good, benefiting both visitors and the local community. As the world continues to navigate the complexities of travel in a post-pandemic era, events like this highlight the importance of fostering connections between tourists and the destinations they visit.
As Tenerife looks to the future, the commitment to sustainable tourism and cultural preservation will be key in ensuring that the island remains a vibrant and attractive destination. The collaborative efforts of local leaders and organizations will play a crucial role in shaping the tourism landscape, making it essential for all stakeholders to work together in promoting an authentic and sustainable experience for all who visit.
