The Regional Secretary for Tourism and Transport received today the award for "Best Stand" that was assigned to the Azores stand at the 2014 Lisbon Tourism Market (BTL). The award was delivered by the Directorate-General of the Portuguese Industrial Association (AIP).

Vítor Fraga emphasised that the award "acknowledges the Azores stand at BTL," adding that he received it "with great pride and satisfaction."

Speaking at the prize delivery ceremony, Vítor Fraga stressed that the Azores stand at 2014 BTL was "designed, built and installed by Azorean companies. It clearly reflects the tourism strategy followed by the Azores and a permanent effort to join efforts between public and private entities."

The Azores stand at 2014 BTL combined the used of endogenous materials, such as cryptomeria and basalt, with a multimedia component, which also reflects the contemporary nature of the destination.

Vítor Fraga recalled that in last year's edition, the Azores were "in the midst of change in order to reposition the Azores Destination in the national market."

Accordingly, the Government has invested in a strategy intended to "boost the attractiveness of the Azores Destination for all those who seek a holiday destination that privileges experiences," thus breaking with the idea that the Azores are a contemplative nature destination.

"We have managed to go forward by disseminating and promoting the tourism products the Region has developed over the year. We have clearly demonstrated to tourists and future visitors that the Region is a nature-oriented tourist destination; however it goes beyond the mere contemplation of nature," stressed the Regional Secretary for Tourism.

For Vítor Fraga, the repositioning of the Azores in the national market is "a safe investment" and will be continued since the Azores Destination is regarded in the national market differently. The destination is now focused on the experiences provided to visitors, being also promoted as a "family friendly destination."

In this regard, the Regional Secretary announced that family campaign for this summer will be extended for another month. The sales period will be extended until June 30.

We will be providing a response to the growing demand for this campaign and allowing "more families to visit the Azores and enjoy unforgettable family holidays in a safe and calm environment that provides unforgettable experiences.

"Next year, we will be at BTL and we will be ready again to surprise all those who will visit us," stated Vítor Fraga.