World Tourism Day, 27 September

World Tourism Day has been celebrated all over the world since 1979, with the aim of developing a global awareness of the importance of this activity. The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) established 27 September as the World Tourism Day, because on that day in 1970, the statute of this organization was adopted in Mexico. This is also the date when the tourist season on the northern hemisphere officially ends, and it officially begins in the southern hemisphere.

Travel is a source of pleasure and it enriches life. When traveling, people gain precious memories, unforgettable experiences and meet new friends. Enjoying the unique landscapes and natural beauties, visiting cultural and historical monuments and getting acquainted with other cultures, delight in the company of local communities is possible due to the development of tourism. ISO has a number of International Standards that serve as important tools to help key players in the tourism industry. These standards can improve tourist services in such areas as protected natural environments, sustainable management systems for accommodation facilities as well as adventure and industrial tourism.

This year’s World Tourism Day is celebrated under the theme “Tourism and Rural Development” which puts an accent on the tourism in villages and in the countryside, which represents the economic pillar and significant source of revenue for the people living in these areas.

The current year is significantly different from all previous years and in many ways influenced the behavior of people and their choices. It had the worst impact on the service sector. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, tourism organizations and related activities (such as hotels and passenger transport) are facing a crisis that may have long-term consequences.

In Serbia, this day will be celebrated on one of the most attractive tourist spots in Belgrade – Ada Ciganlija. The event will include the broadcasting of promotional films on the topic of travel, as well as interesting musical program, and will be held in compliance with all recommended epidemiological measures.