The European Historic Thermal Towns Association (EHTTA) is proud to announce that they are organising an international congress on thermal tourism with the participation of UNWTO – United Nations World Tourism Organization.
The congress, which takes place September 27th-29th in Ourense, Spain, is hosted by the Province of Ourense (Deputación de Ourense) and Ourense Council, with the support of the Galicia Region (Xunta de Galicia).
EHTTA, which is also a Cultural Route of the Council of Europe was delighted to be included in the UNWTO’s work programme for 2022, and with this prestigious Congress, will be reaching a global audience to examine the phenomenon of “thermal tourism”. Three major themes will run through the Congress: Tourism, Heritage, and Experience.
There will also be a very special guest to start the proceedings on the first morning – Andriy Kulchynsky, Mayor of Truskawez (also known as Truskavets), a famous spa resort in Ukraine, close to the Polish border, which dates back to the 15th century.
The President of the Province of Ourense, and EHTTA President, Manuel Baltar said: “The experience and enthusiasm of EHTTA members in this area (Galicia Region, Province of Ourense, and Ourense Council) and the fact that there has not been a “thermal tourism” congress for a few years was part of the inspiration and impetus behind the application to the UNWTO Affiliate Members Department for their support in developing THE Thermal Congress. As President of the Ourense Government and the President of EHTTA I am delighted to be able to welcome delegates to Ourense in September, truly the “main thermal province” of Spain, and Europe during this time!
European Historic Thermal Towns’ members present best practices
The congress programme includes presentations related to projects of EHTTA members in Hungary, France and Spain as well as from the Great Spa Towns of Europe.
The Bathrobe Addicts, originally from the members in Massif Central in France will be seen for the first time in Ourense at the event. This promotional brand and movement were adopted by the Belgian towns of Spa five years ago after its success there; now it’s coming to Spain too!
Workshops and discussions with key partners
On the second day of the Congress, delegates have the opportunity to join workshops featuring important partners of Historic Thermal Towns: the network of the Cultural Routes of the Council of Europe and the European Travel Commission. A third workshop is dedicated to European funding for tourism. The afternoon will also include the opportunity to learn more about the implementation of certain projects and strategies from around the world.
The International Thermal Tourism Congress is more than just a networking opportunity, it’s an immersive experience that will leave you feeling energized about your future in tourism!
Don’t miss out on registering today before these limited slots fill up.
Details, including the congress programme and registration, are available by clicking here.
EHTTA’s Media Release is available here.
