Desidério Silva, the Algarve’s tourism boss since 2012, has announced he is running again for office at the regional tourism board (RTA) in a bid supported by the so-called ‘father of Algarve tourism’ André Jordan.
In a statement announcing his candidature for the 2018-2023 mandate, Silva says he has helped “establish the Algarve’s position as the main tourism destination in Portugal” during his five-year tenure.
“It is with a feeling of a job well done that I reach the end of my mandate at the regional tourism board (RTA),” he said.
“In these last five-years-and-a-half, the region’s tourism sector has changed. Today it is much more diverse and of higher quality, and we now value our natural resources, cultural heritage and traditions.
“This was only possible thanks to the collaboration of all municipalities, tour operators, entities working in the sector and RTA’s team.”
But despite the improvements, Desidério Silva feels there is still a lot that needs to be done.
“This is a long-term project. I have always been linked to the Algarve and played an active role in the development of the region, and I intend to continue strengthening the image of the Algarve as a destination of excellence that is on par with the world’s leading tourism destinations.”
He also mentioned the “record numbers” that the tourism sector celebrated while he was at the helm of the RTA, as well as the international awards that hailed the Algarve as Europe’s best beach and golf destination.
Another achievement has been the increase of off-season tourism, with hotel bookings outside of the summer season increasing 45% between 2012 and 2017.
The success and international exposure that sporting events like the Volta ao Algarve and Portugal Masters have brought to the region were other aspects highlighted by Desidério Silva.
Algarve tourism figure André Jordan is supporting his bid, confirmed Silva. “He is known for his active contribution to Algarve tourism and is considered one of the world’s most influential people in the sector.”
michael.bruxo@algarveresident.com
