Bulgaria Records 7% Increase in Culture Tourism

Sofia News Agency, 16 April 2010

Bulgaria's culture tourism registers a 7% increase despite the economic crisis, data presented at the official opening of the “Culture Tourism 2010” expo reveals.

The expo, organized by the municipal tourist agency”Tsarevgrad Tarnov,” the Economy Ministry, tour operators, hotel and restaurant owners, was launched in the city of Veliko Tarnovo, Wednesday. The motto of the 2010 edition is “Veliko Tarnovo – a Balkan Culture Tourism Capital,” after the prestigious award Bulgaria's old capital received in January, bestowed by the 47th congress of the Hotel and Restaurant Association.

“The award is for us recognition, responsibility and a brand name,” the city's Mayor, Rumen Rashev, said during his opening address.

The expo has registered a record number of participants – 800 representatives of Bulgarian tourist businesses, along with tour operators from 18 foreign countries.

The expo, running until April 17, includes in its program, in addition to displays, discussions, a film fest dedicated to travel films, a parade and an award ceremony.