Buenos Aires buzzed with activity from August 28 to 30, 2024, as Hotelga, a premier event showcasing Latin America’s vibrant hospitality and gastronomy sectors, took center stage at La Rural Trade Center. Organized by Fehgra, AHT, and Messe Frankfurt Argentina, the event drew over 12,000 participants, including industry leaders and entrepreneurs eager to delve into the latest trends and innovative solutions shaping the future of the industry.
Hotelga 2024 was a hub for knowledge exchange, featuring enriching keynote speeches and panel discussions that fostered industry growth. Renowned figures like Jorge Moller from the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) highlighted the critical role of sustainable accommodations in fostering community well-being. “When we prioritize the well-being of local residents, we not only enrich their lives but also create destinations where travelers can feel a deeper connection and sense of belonging,” Moller emphasized.
Estefanía del Azar, also from GSTC, shared valuable insights on crafting effective sustainability communications for enhancing brand value in hospitality. “By aligning messages with core values, hotels can strengthen their brand identity. We need to emphasize the importance of sharing sustainable practices in a way travelers can appreciate and understand,” Del Azar stated.
The event went beyond discussions, marking a significant step forward in the commitment to sustainable tourism practices. A pivotal moment was the signing of the Letter of Intent concerning the Code of Conduct for the Protection of Children and Adolescents in Travel and Tourism, signed in collaboration with various South American tourism associations. This agreement underscored a united commitment to responsible practices across the continent.
Hotelga 2024 also saw the successful execution of a pre-event workshop titled “Stories that Transform,” led by GSTC staff. This engaging session brought together members of Hotelga’s ‘Hoteles Más Verdes’ program, fostering a lively discussion on the power of storytelling to amplify the impact of their sustainable initiatives. Over 40 hoteliers participated in this impactful workshop.
The event further celebrated the 11th edition of the Sustainable Hospitality Contest, recognizing and rewarding environmentally respectful management models and practices within the sector. This contest was judged by a panel of esteemed figures, including Moller and Del Azar, showcasing exemplary contributions to sustainable tourism.
Hotelga 2024 fostered critical dialogues between GSTC members and regional tourism authorities from Argentina and Uruguay, as well as the Argentine Association of Organizers and Suppliers of Exhibitions, Congresses, Events, and Convention Bureaus (AOCA). These discussions centered on enhancing sustainability in tourism through collaborative efforts and the adoption of global sustainability standards.
In conclusion, Hotelga 2024 served as a powerful platform for exchanging knowledge, promoting collaboration, and advancing the adoption of sustainable practices within the hospitality and gastronomy sectors of Latin America. By bringing together industry leaders, organizations, and experts, the event highlighted the pivotal role of sustainability in shaping the future of travel and tourism in the region.
