Melissa attends IWINETC 2016

It’s true, someone has to do it, and it was my professional responsibility to attend the International Wine Tourism Conference (IWINETC) and familiarization tour in Catalonia, Spain last week!  Seriously, the IWINETC was a fantastic opportunity to taste wines from around Europe, attend seminars on several subjects by world class experts, experience fantastic food and wine pairings and do a familiarization tour sponsored by the Catalan Tourist Board,highlighting the wine regions around Tarragona.

Wine, beer and food travel is a fast growing segment in international tourism and a great component to incorporate into your tour, whatever its focus.  By including a brewery tour, wine tasting or local foods you get a sense of the culture and tradition of your destination.  Frequently, including this type of activity gets you out of the city and into the countryside for a memorable experience that many times is a highlight of your special interest tour.

I was even lucky enough to be in Altafulla during a local “Castell” festival.  These human towers are a tradition in Catalonia and have been declared an Intangible Heritage by UNESCO!  What a great way to end my time in Spain!  I came back a few pounds heavier and with lots of new ideas to add to your next performance or special interest tour!

Cheers, Salud, Cin Cin, Prost!