Two Algarve tourism presidents head-to-head over strategy

The new head of the Algarve Tourism Region (RTA), is running for the presidency of the other tourism body in the region, the Algarve Tourism Association (ATA).

João Fernandes (pictured) wants the two tourism entities to ‘speak with one voice’ to promote the internal and external promotion of the Algarve.

The ATA elections are scheduled for December 3rd and Fernandes has put his name forward, thus causing an explosion of indignation from the current ATA chief, Carlos Luís, who says he has, "a different vision from the candidate list, headed by João Fernandes.”

Carlos Luís wants the external promotion of the region to be through, "an entity that brings together public and private sector members and whose mission is to promote the Algarve, as a tourist region, at international level.”

In the past, the president of the RTA also became the president of the ATA but this changed and the two bodies now are run by different people, a state of affairs that Carlos Luís want to see continue.

João Fernandes says he has the support of the regional bodies that vote for the ATA presidency and that a joint presidency would be sensible in coordinating promotional activity.

Carlos Luís says this plan is a huge setback and that he will put himself forward for re-election and will concentrate on the 'sustainable growth of tourism in the region.'

For Carlos Luís, the reason the region has been winning all sorts of awards and distinctions, is because there are two tourist bodies promoting the Algarve.

The fight is on but the bigger question that nobody seems to be asking, is why are there two tourist bodies promoting the region, requiring two offices, two presidents, two pension plans, two car fleets, two full compliments of staff and the potential of two promotional plans running simultaneously and in conflict.

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