• The presentation “Architects of Leisure” emphasized human capital as a differentiating element of the Galician tourism model
• The Cluster’s president stressed that enhancing the prestige of tourism professions and strengthening their social recognition is one of the objectives of the Galicia Tourism Strategy 2030

The Galicia Tourism Cluster focused its Fitur 2026 presentation on the value and importance of tourism professionals in establishing Galicia as a welcoming and high-quality destination.

During the event—which was attended by the President of the Xunta, Alfonso Rueda, and the Director of the Galician Tourism Agency, Xosé Manuel Merelles—the Cluster’s president, Cesáreo Pardal, emphasized that “the more than 129,000 professionals linked to the Galician tourism sector are the main differentiating element of the Galician tourism offering and the foundation of tourism with soul, responsibility, and sustainability.”

Pardal emphasized that human capital is key to creating unique experiences and projecting a destination’s image. These individuals, the true “architects of leisure,” are the ones who give meaning to the tourism model and raise the sector’s quality standards.

To address this reality from different perspectives, the presentation included the participation of three leading professionals from the Galician tourism sector with extensive experience in training, business management, and team leadership: José Paz, director of the Galician Higher Center for Hospitality (CSHG); Agustín Collazos, president of the A Coruña Business Association of Lodging (HOSPECO); and Romina Fernández, director of Tourism for the Pontevedra Provincial Council.

Their remarks all pointed out that the sector’s growth is impossible without qualified professionals, talent, dedication, and individuals committed to attention to detail and excellence in visitor service.

The presentation also emphasized the need to enhance the prestige of tourism professions and convey to society the true value of a sector that has made progress in improving working conditions, stability, and work-life balance, and that needs to continue attracting new talent to meet future challenges.

The presentation concluded with remarks from the director of the Galician Tourism Agency, Xosé Manuel Merelles, who highlighted the successful year for tourism in the region and the crucial role of tourism professionals in that success.

One of the core missions of the Galicia Tourism Strategy 2030 places people at the heart of the tourism model, focusing on highlighting the role of professionals, improving the sector’s public image, fostering careers, providing ongoing training, and developing talent.

With this initiative at Fitur 2026, the Cluster reaffirms its commitment to a people-centered tourism model, convinced that the future of Galician tourism is built on the backs of those who make every experience possible—the best calling card and the most effective promotional campaign for Galicia as a destination.

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