Valencia, Spain has recently been awarded the title of European Capital of Intelligent Tourism, which it shares with Bordeaux in France. Both cities are leading the way in sustainable tourism practices, which have become increasingly important in recent years. The award was given in recognition of Valencia’s commitment to eco-friendliness, as well as its efforts to use digital technologies to enhance the tourism experience for visitors.
Valencia’s efforts towards sustainability started gaining traction in 2019, and have taken on even greater significance in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. With tourism declining all over Europe, the European Commission sought ways to promote sustainable tourism in certain cities, including Valencia.
One of the key factors that contributed to Valencia’s receiving the title of European Capital of Intelligent Tourism was its strong commitment to protecting the environment. This is evident in a number of different areas throughout the city, including the management of Airbnb properties. Valencia is also the first city in Europe to receive double certification for its efforts towards «digital tourism» and sustainable development.
One of the main components of sustainable tourism is digitalization, and Valencia has been at the forefront of this trend. Tourist property managers like GuestReady, for example, have been implementing new digital initiatives to educate guests and visitors about the city’s various eco-friendly offerings. This includes the publication of brochures which extol the virtues of the city’s environmental policies, as well as other initiatives such as providing information in braille and pictograms in tourist offices, using interactive digital platforms to provide information to visitors, and offering immersive experiences at tourist sites through the use of smartphones and other devices.
The concept of a «smart destination» or «intelligent tourism» involves more than just eco-friendliness, however. It also implies a city that takes advantage of the latest technologies to provide visitors with the best possible experience. This includes incorporating eco-friendly transportation options, such as bike lanes and low-emission vehicles, as well as using digital technologies to provide accessible, highly personalized and interactive experiences for all visitors.
Valencia offers a wealth of attractions and activities for tourists interested in sustainable tourism. For example, visitors can explore the city’s historic center on foot, take advantage of the many bike paths, or recharge their water bottles at numerous natural water sources. Two of the city’s most noteworthy eco-friendly attractions are the Turia Gardens, which offer a leafy, peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, and the Albufera Natural Park, which is home to many rare and endangered plants and animals.
Other notable features of Valencia’s touristic infrastructure include accessible beaches for people with disabilities, Navilens technology on city buses for blind and visually impaired passengers, tactile pictograms and braille information in tourist sites, and interactive chatting or WhatsApp services provided by the city’s official tourism agency, Visit València.
In conclusion, Valencia’s recent recognition as a Capital of Intelligent Tourism highlights the importance of adopting sustainable and intelligent tourism practices that offer visitors an eco-friendly, highly personalized, and interactive experience. With other cities across Europe set to follow Valencia’s lead, the future of tourism looks more secure and better equipped to protect the environment and enhance visitor experiences.
