The four pillars of smart tourism are economic, ecological, cultural and community sustainability. The proof is in the pudding, says Daniel Hazelhoff, now that Valencia has been named European Capital of Smart Tourism
From hosting the 12th inauguration of the Gay Games to renowned gastronomy and cinema, Valencia is spearheading the image of what the new Europe seeks to promote. Sustainability and development are at the forefront of new developments that guide this city into the new dawn of smart cities, and smart tourism.
Recently announced the host of the Gay Games for 2026, Valencia is striving to show the world how important sports are to inclusiveness. By creating a safe space for diverse individuals, the city seeks to promote an environment in which all feel welcome, both citizens and tourists alike.
The rise in filming in our city marks the recognition that our historical architecture holds, along with more contemporary developments. Thus there has, in recent years, been a plethora of new TV shows, films, both western and eastern, since even some Bollywood developments have been shot in Valencia, shooting in the city. All of which add up to mean that Valencia will host the next Los Premios Goya.
Los Premios Goya
The Premios Goya are Spain’s lauded cinema awards. On 12 February 2022 will be the next ceremony. La Ciudad De Las Artes y Ciencias, one of Santiago Calatravas’s more acclaimed architectural marvels, has been home to many recent filmings. The extremely popular show Westworld, by Jonathan Nolan and Lisa Joy, as well as the UK’s Doctor Who and Money Heist (Casa de Papel) have all used the site as a shooting location. La Ciudad De Las Artes Y Ciencias is also home to El Palau De Les Arts, which will host Spain’s 2022 Premios Goya. Visit Valencia offers a walking tour of the sights; book here.
“Last year we truly missed the public. What better place for this reunion than the city of Valencia and this Palau De Les Arts?” asks Mariano Barroso, film director.
“This puts us on the side of hope. This will be a monument to the emotional healing we need. It is more than a gala, it is a support for the Spanish film industry, and its rebirth,” says Ximo Puig, president of La Comunidad de Valencia.
Gay Games
Valencia is also known as La Ciudad del Running (the city of running). Running towards inclusivity, camaraderie, some might say. The wonderful park through the centre, a former river now a people’s park called Jardines del Turia, provides the perfect spot for joggers and runners and other forms of sport and relaxation. If you haven’t been, the Jardines del Turia has been landscaped and built along the old river bed of Valencia’s river, El Turia. Following a devastating flood in 1957 in which 81 people lost their lives, and following a popular campaign, the Ayuntamiento agreed to turn this into a 7km playground and recreation space. Put on your running shoes, jump on your bike or simply bring your picnic blanket, and time spent in the river bed is one of the deep privileges this city lends its citizens and visitors. Throw in watersports such as surfing and windsurfing, paddleboarding and sailing, and Valencia really has an enviable menu of possibilities.
People from all over Europe come to Valencia for its sporting possibilities. 2026, Valencia will hold the Gay Games. And this is just another step this city is taking in the direction of progress and development.
Gastronomy
It is no secret Valencia is home to star examples of Mediterranean cuisine. Many Valencianos will argue that our paella is the paella. Good luck trying to argue against that with a local. On a local level, the region’s food is up there with the greats. Internationally, the sector is getting recognition as well. The next Michelin Star Gala will be held on 14 December, for the presentation of the Michelin Guide for Spain and Portugal 2022. The auditorium of El Palau De Las Artes Reina Sofia will see chef Quique Dacosta as the Gastronomic coordinator of the event.
“Valencia offers the perfect frame to host the most important event of high gastronomy: personality and its gastronomy. Its promotion of development and hospitality along with its clear strategy has made La Comunidad Valenciana into an attractive national and international destination,” reports Guía Michelin.
Digitalisation, Sustainability and a Green Future
As the World Capital of Design 2022, Valencia also paves the path for Smart Tourism. Developments in sustainability, pedestrianisation, and greener areas make Valencia a template for other European cities. The design and development towards more eco-friendly, responsible, and carbon-neutral cities seems to be the general goal and direction.
“This involves implementing responsible politics, respectful towards the environment,” says head of tourism for the City Council Emiliano García. “We need to use information and data before acting,” he adds. And he concludes by saying, “We need to use technology to help us be more efficient – we need to take care of our traditions and heritage.”
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