Olga Ramudo, President of WTE, expressed her enthusiasm: “Having ProColombia and Avianca as our Global Host Country and Host Airline, respectively, is a great honor and a testament to the growing importance of this event. We are dedicated to providing a platform on which the travel and tourism industry can thrive, and with our distinguished hosts, we look forward to showcasing the vibrant culture of Colombia and the exceptional connectivity that Avianca offers. WTE Miami 2024 promises to be an unparalleled experience
for all participants.”
WTE Miami 2024, supported by Miami International Airport and the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau, Miami Dade County, will offer a dynamic platform to foster business opportunities, exchange knowledge and explore the latest trends and business opportunities in the travel industry, further highlighted by the participation of ProColombia and Avianca.
Carmen Caballero, President of ProColombia, emphasized the importance of this collaboration: “Organizing events like the ProColombia Tourism Workshop and forging alliances with global fairs like WTE Miami, along with strategic allies like Avianca, are key to maintaining Colombia’s visibility and consolidating our position as the top tourism destination in South America for U.S. travelers. With a unique offering of more than 20
companies—including tour operators, hotels, and local tourism authorities—participating in this workshop in Miami, we’re not only keeping Colombia on the map; we’re demonstrating why travelers are drawn to the meaningful experiences found across our six diverse regions.”
Caballero continued: "Colombia, The Country of Beauty, continues to reach historic tourism figures, reflecting
our attractiveness on the global stage. Not only are we achieving these milestones, but we are also paving the way towards a future where our tourism industry is a global example of sustainability, captivating the world with its diversity and potential."
Tourism in Colombia Reaching Historic Figures
In 2023, Colombia welcomed more than 6 million international travelers, marking a record year for the country's tourism industry, with an increase of 27.4% compared to 2022.
In the first half of 2024, more than 3.1 million non-resident visitors were recorded, representing an increase of 8.5% compared to the same period in 2023.
Tourism generated more than 9 billion dollars in foreign currency in 2023, an increase of 22.4% compared to 2022.
Colombia is recognized as one of the 12 countries with a sustainable tourism policy and has been invited to the United Nations Sustainability Week to present its progress and success stories in this area.
ProColombia has been instrumental in promoting the country’s global appeal, which has been reinforced by a strong focus on sustainability, biodiversity and cultural richness. Colombia’s unique landscapes and dedication to environmental protection will be highlighted as the country prepares to host COP 16, the Biodiversity Summit, from October 21 to November 1, 2024, further consolidating its position as a leader in sustainable tourism.
Avianca and its connectivity with Colombia
Avianca, the official Global Host Airline of WTE Miami 2024, continues to play a crucial role in connecting Colombia to the world. It currently operates 15 routes between the United States and major Colombian cities, offering extensive non-stop connections from Miami, New York, Orlando, Washington, and Boston to key destinations such as Bogotá, Medellín, Cartagena, and Cali.
Rolando Damas, Avianca Sales Director for North America, Central America and the Caribbean, shared his enthusiasm about this collaboration:
“For many years we have connected the United States with Colombia and that is why today we are excited to be together with ProColombia at the World Travel Expo in Miami, reaffirming our commitment to promoting tourism to the country of beauty. Currently, we have the best offer to fly to Colombia from 7 of the main cities in the United States (Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, New York, Washington, Boston and Chicago).
In addition, from our hub in Bogotá travelers can connect with 23 domestic destinations to explore every corner of the country without limits.”
The partnership between ProColombia and Avianca for WTE Miami 2024 reflects the growing interest in Colombia as a world-class destination, offering unique experiences that highlight the country's natural beauty, diverse ecosystems and rich cultural heritage.
Source: WTE Miami