Albania, elite and sustainable tourist destination
The Director General of the National Tourism Agency, Zana Cela, was invited to one of Podcasti’s episodes moderated by Astrid Steharnig-Staudinger, executive director of the Austrian Tourism Board. During the interview, Cela shared the vision of the Albanian government and the AKA commitment to promoting Albania as an elite and sustainable tourist destination by 2030.
The conversation focused on the transformative power of Albania’s cultural heritage, the natural resources of Albania and the key role of international cooperation in building a tourism that not only attracts visitors but also educates and enriches tourist experience. « Last year, Albania welcomed 12 million visitors and recorded about 6.8 million novels. Just five days ago, according to a report by the World Tourism Organization, Albania was declared leader in tourism growth, with an 80% increase compared to 2019. Protected and 1.5 million visitors to cultural heritage sites.‘, Çela said.
Asked what Albania is doing about elite sustainability and tourism, Çela responded that « Sustainability is at the heart of tourism development in Albania. The Vjosa River, the last wild river of Europe, has been declared a national park, emphasizing our commitment to preserving natural miracles. With 13.6% of the country declared as protected areas, Albania offers landscapes and landscapes. Marine ecosystems ”.
Regarding human resources for the tourism sector, Cela said that « I think this is a global challenge, as people are always in motion and demanding new work experiences. Our government has taken many initiatives to attract Albanian specialists living abroad. » The Director of AKA said, among other things, that « Albania offers every traveler with stunning natural beauty, exemplary warm hospitality and complete security. Also, our cuisine is very authentic, a mix of Mediterranean, Balkan and Ottoman flavors, but with different regional features. »
