What are the main new features that Chile is presenting at FITUR this year?
Chile is participating in FITUR with a stand focused on strong commercial interests, featuring over 30 exhibitors representing a wide variety of tourism products, destinations, and styles from across the country. The market response has been very positive, especially considering that Spain is one of Chile's strategic markets for tourism.
Among the key new features is the launch of the new official portal, chile.travel, a completely redesigned and more intuitive platform with improved images and planning tools that enhance the traveler experience. The site is also integrated into the stand via an interactive screen that allows visitors to explore the full range of offerings and the latest news from Chile.
Chile has a large stand at FITUR. Which destinations and regions are represented, and which are priorities for promotion?
Chile's promotional strategy is organized into five macro-regions, all represented at FITUR through tour operators, hotels, and destinations. This structure allows the country's diversity to be showcased in an integrated way, with offerings ranging from the north to Patagonia.
Among the featured destinations is Rapa Nui, which has specific offerings and activities at the fair. The Biobío Region is also participating, promoting, among other attractions, the World Rally Championship. These are joined by traditional northern destinations such as the Atacama Desert and the Altiplano; the central region, with its wine-growing valleys; the Lake District and Volcanoes Region; and Patagonia, which continues to be one of the main international tourist destinations.
Chile is experiencing a summer season with positive results. How are tourism figures evolving?
The results are very positive for both inbound and domestic tourism. In the case of international tourism, approximately 4.5 million visitors were recorded up to September, representing a 26% increase compared to 2014. Pending the final year-end figures, it is estimated that the total could reach between 5.9 and 6 million international tourists.
As for domestic tourism, which is especially important during the high season, very positive figures are also observed, allowing us to project a very good season for tourism service providers throughout the country.
Besides FITUR, what promotional activities are planned for this year in Europe?
While this year presents some budgetary challenges, the plan includes an active presence in Europe. In addition to FITUR, Chile will participate in LATA and will organize its own workshop in Madrid, scheduled for mid-year, with operators from across Europe.
This event, now in its third edition, has proven to be very popular and has become a key tool for strengthening trade relations with European markets.
Finally, what message would you like to leave for the international market?
You are invited to discover the diverse tourism offerings of Chile, represented at FITUR by tour operators from across the country. You are also invited to visit the website chile.travel, where you will find all the latest information on destinations, experiences, and new developments to help you plan your trip to Chile.