Tuesday, November 26, 2024
Quito is set to become Ecuador’s first Smart Tourism Destination, leveraging technology, sustainability, and inclusivity to enhance experiences for both locals and visitors.
Quito is embracing a new era of innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity with its bold goal of becoming Ecuador’s first Smart Tourism Destination (STD). This forward-thinking initiative will allow the city to harness the latest technologies, champion sustainable practices, and ensure that tourism benefits both visitors and locals alike.
The journey toward this transformation was set in motion by a pivotal agreement between Quito’s mayor, Pabel Muñoz, and Etzon Romo, the manager of Quito Tourism Public Company, alongside Spain’s Secretary of State for Tourism, Rosario Sánchez Grau. This landmark partnership signifies Quito’s dedication to enhancing its tourism offerings while aligning with global best practices.
The city’s Smart Tourism initiative aims to redefine the visitor experience by integrating cutting-edge technology and sustainability into the tourism infrastructure. It will also encourage meaningful engagement between tourists and the local community, fostering a dynamic and inclusive environment. Ultimately, Quito’s efforts aim to boost the quality of life for residents while delivering unforgettable experiences to visitors.
Key advantages of the initiative include:
- Strengthened engagement between tourists and local residents.
- Seamless technological integration throughout the tourism ecosystem.
- Holistic management of sustainability in tourism activities.
This initiative is inspired by a framework developed by Spain’s Ministry of Industry, Commerce, and Tourism, in collaboration with Segittur (the State Society for the Management of Innovation and Tourism Technologies). The model evaluates 97 requirements and 261 indicators across five key areas: governance, innovation, technology, accessibility, and sustainability.
As part of this process, Quito’s tourism sector will undergo a comprehensive analysis, followed by actionable recommendations and an ongoing monitoring system to ensure sustained improvement. By adopting this model, Quito aligns with international standards recognized by organizations like the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), the OECD, and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB).
Becoming a Smart Tourism Destination will also integrate Quito into the global Network of Smart Tourism Destinations, opening the door to collaboration and knowledge exchange with leading cities worldwide. This network connects public authorities, private businesses, and academic institutions, fostering shared growth and innovation in the tourism sector.
During the agreement’s signing ceremony, representatives from Spain, including Enrique Martínez Marín, President of Segittur, and Carlos Romero, Director of Research, Development, and Innovation at Segittur, commended Quito’s proactive approach to implementing the Smart Tourism framework. Their praise highlighted Quito’s position as a leader in the region, ahead of other cities aspiring to follow suit.
The benefits of the Smart Tourism Destination model are clear:
- Enhanced competitiveness through more efficient use of tourism resources.
- Increased efficiency in tourism production and marketing.
- Stronger support for sustainable development initiatives.
- Elevated visitor experiences and improved quality of life for residents.
- Long-term economic revitalization driven by tourism growth.
Quito’s vision for smart tourism is part of its broader ambition to establish itself as a global tourism leader. Key projects include:
- Active participation in international tourism trade shows.
- The development of the SITUR innovative tourist information system.
- Attracting international conferences and conventions.
- Promoting rural tourism routes throughout the Metropolitan District of Quito (DMQ).
- Building a participatory tourism agenda with input from local industry stakeholders.
Quito’s commitment to becoming a Smart Tourism Destination is a transformative step forward, positioning the city as a globally connected and forward-thinking destination. By adopting this cutting-edge model, Quito sets a new standard for innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity in the tourism sector.
