The event, held in Brazil, brought together experts from around the world to explore the topics of luxury tourism and sustainability. Faculty members of the Tourism program, María Fernanda Moreno and Mauricio Andrés Manrique, along with program alumnus Kevin Casanova, presented figures and trends in the sector.

The Tourism program of the University of Cauca, represented by Kevin Casanova, Kevin Cadena, María Fernanda Moreno, and Mauricio Andrés Manrique, participated in the XIII International Congress of Journalists and Tourism Professionals. The university members presented the paper 'Behind the Glamour: Discovering Excellence in Exclusive Experiences,' framed within the topic of luxury tourism in Colombia. This segment is experiencing significant growth in the sector and is beginning to be projected as a promising business alternative.

The presentation by these Unicauca members revealed significant figures, such as the increase in tourism in 2023, which saw a 29.3% growth compared to 2022, and the rise in luxury suite occupancy in Bogotá, which reached 20% in the same year. Additionally, a 4% increase in luxury tourism offers was highlighted. Furthermore, these experts shared that for 2024, even more significant growth is expected, thanks to the collaboration of entities such as the Luxury Tourism Network, Green Trails, the District Institute of Tourism, ProColombia, and various hotels. The goal is for Bogotá to become the luxury capital of South America by 2026.

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The proposal indicates that so-called high-spending travelers seek experiences and destinations that reflect Colombia's natural and cultural wealth, primarily attracting Europeans interested in a combination of customer service, technology, and the highest quality standards. The most valued experiences for these travelers in Colombia include personalized tours (100%), exclusive cultural experiences (79%), guides with specialized experts (75%), unique gastronomic tours (66.7%), exclusive accommodations (66.7%), and luxury expeditions (50%)

The XIII International Congress of Journalists and Tourism Professionals, held on March 9 in Quebra Noz, Campos do Jordão, Brazil, brought together experts to discuss luxury tourism and sustainability. From the inauguration to the awarding of the International Open Passport Award 2024, participants engaged in discussions about the future of this sector. 'The Tourism Journalism Congress allowed me to gain insights, especially on the topic of public-private partnerships. Tourism in these locations has significant economic, environmental, and social relevance; it is a strategic sector for regional development, supported by contributions from local governments and state entities in business training, infrastructure conditions, security, among other aspects,' shared one of the participants.

Similarly, the private sector, through small businesses, associations, and guilds, makes investments to generate their tourism initiatives and ventures, with significant support in communications and marketing carried out collectively," stated Professor María Fernanda Moreno.

Within the event's agenda, the presentation of the book 'Everything About My Trip' was highlighted. This book, resulting from the International Certification in Travel Journalism, provided a detailed analysis of the challenges and opportunities in tourism journalism. The previously mentioned authors from our institution shared their insights on achieving excellence in exclusive experiences and the importance of sustainability.

The University of Cauca expresses its pride and joy in having professionals who stand out in renowned settings such as the XIII International Congress of Journalists and Tourism Professionals. Their participation with the innovative work on luxury tourism in Colombia not only reflects their exceptional dedication and expertise in the field but also reaffirms our institution's commitment to academic excellence and significant contributions to the knowledge and development of our society. We celebrate their success and reaffirm our unconditional support for their work, convinced that their example inspires and motivates our entire educational community to continue transcending boundaries.

For more information:

Tourism Program

Email: coorditurismo@unicauca.edu.co