The impact of cocoa on tourism

Cocoa, known as the “food of the gods,” is not only an essential ingredient in the world's cuisine, but also a vital cultural and economic resource for many countries. Through its program, the World Network seeks to transform traditional tourism narratives by including immersive cocoa-related experiences: from visits to plantations and artisanal production workshops, to guided tastings and historical trails linked to cocoa heritage. These approaches not only diversify the tourism offer, but also promote fair trade and cultural conservation.

Andrea Boekhoud-Montoya, coordinator for the Benelux region, will present the vision and mission of the World Network during the fair. In her speech, Boekhoud-Montoya will highlight the positive impact that can be generated by connecting the tourism sector with other key industries such as cocoa. “Our goal is to offer tourists meaningful experiences that not only enrich them culturally, but also have a sustainable and positive impact on local communities,” she said.

A look into the future of tourism

The World Network's participation in Vakantiebeurs underscores the importance of taking a multidisciplinary approach to tourism development. In a world increasingly focused on sustainability and authenticity, connecting industries such as tourism and cocoa offers unique opportunities to create added value.

The World Cocoa and Derivatives Tourist Destinations Network seeks to foster innovation in the sector through initiatives that foster cross-sector partnerships. This approach not only strengthens the local economy, but also allows tourists to discover profound cultural and social aspects of the destinations they visit.

During the fair, attendees will be able to learn more about the network's proposals through interactive presentations and specialized panels. In addition, tour operators and travel agents will be invited to explore opportunities for collaboration in emerging destinations where cocoa plays a central role in the economy and cultural identity.

Vakantiebeurs: a platform for innovation

Consolidated as one of the most relevant tourism fairs in Europe, Vakantiebeurs attracts more than 100,000 visitors and hundreds of exhibitors each year. This event offers an ideal space for the presentation of new trends and proposals that redefine the way we travel.

The presence of the World Cocoa and Derivatives Tourist Destinations Network at the fair will not only make the potential of cocoa in tourism more visible, but also consolidate strategic alliances with key players in the sector. By including cocoa as a thematic axis, doors will be opened for more countries and producing communities to integrate their stories and traditions into the global offer of tourism experiences.

An experience for all the senses

Highlights of the network's activities at Vakantiebeurs include presentations on cocoa-focused tourism routes in cocoa-producing regions, panels on the economic and social opportunities arising from the integration of cocoa into the tourism industry, and others.

The participation of the World Cocoa and Derivatives Tourist Destinations Network in Vakantiebeurs promises to be a milestone in promoting this cross-sectoral synergy, taking tourism to new levels of creativity, sustainability and inclusion.