The UNWTO (United Nations World Tourism Organisation) has launched a global initiative to lower over-tourism levels and better promote lesser-known destinations.
New findings, from the UNWTO’s own research, shows that less than half – only 42%, to be exact – of tourists currently travel to unchartered territories; with roughly the same percentage favouring familiar destinations over exploring new places.
As a global call to invest in undiscovered destinations, Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary-General of the UNWTO, launched the ‘Tourism Opens Minds’ initiative during the WTD conference taking place in Riyadh, in an announcement saying: “To ensure true global prosperity, we must work together to ensure that every country can harness the potential of a thriving tourism industry. The sector serves as a unifying force, fostering cultural understanding, strengthening bonds between societies, and championing environmental preservation.“
He unveiled the new initiative at last week’s formal World Tourism Day events in Riyadh.
The universal pledge aims to support and encourage tourists to explore new horizons, enrich their travel experiences and diversify the industry. This will eventually result in creating a positive economic and social impact on local communities as it unlocks the true essence that tourism plays in bridging cultures and creating a truly inclusive world.
