The Slovenian Tourist Board in March of this year received an award from the National Geographic Society organization for sustainable development of tourism at the ITB Berlin 2017 business event, one of the biggest international tourist fairs. Last year the “green” approach of Slovenian tourism was also acknowledged and recognized by the Green Destinations organization, which has its headquarters in the Netherlands.

The Slovenian Tourist Board participated at the ITB Berlin 2017 tourist fair for the first time as a partner state and received the National Geographic World Legacy Destination Leadership award. The award is given to organizations, companies, and destinations that strive for positive changes in tourism and implement the best sustainable practice with their vision and leadership and share their positive stories with millions of today’s travelers.

The Slovenian Tourist Board was competing in the Destination Leadership category, which focuses on evaluation of the best environmental practices, preservation of natural and cultural heritage, effects on local communities and education of travelers about sustainable tourism. Upon evaluation, which included a 4-day assessment in Slovenia, the Slovenian Tourist Board was placed among three finalists (alongside the Riverwind Foundation, the Jackson Hole Chamber of Commerce and the Segera Retreat of Kenya).

“The awards of the National Geographic World ­Legacy present a unique opportunity for promotion and increased international recognition for both the winners and finalists, with both getting media attention in the world renowned National Geographic Traveler and other National Geographic media”, emphasized the Director of the Slovenian Tourist Board, Maja Pak.