The declaration builds on six key principles that together will determine the future direction of European tourism. These include the shared benefits of tourism for society as a whole, development based on the needs of local communities and support for digital innovation. It also emphasises the protection and celebration of Europe's cultural and natural assets, the strengthening of ecosystems and fair working conditions across the sector. The final pillar is the understanding of travel as a force for peace and understanding that connects people across the continent. New data also shows that eight out of ten Europeans welcome visitors and are proud that their region attracts tourists.
"The Reykjavik Declaration confirms the direction we want to take in Czechia – tourism development must be in line with the needs of the people who live in the destinations. Only where visitors and locals feel comfortable can tourism prosper in the long term,“ says Director of the Czech Tourist Authority – CzechTourism František Reismüller.
The declaration is an important step towards a unified European vision of travel that promotes local living, long-term sustainability and quality experiences. In doing so, European destinations are opening a new phase of cooperation that prioritises quality over quantity.
Full press release ETC
PHOTO: ETC