On 12-14 February, for the second consecutive year, the project partner Management Organization of the Thrace Tourist Region (MOTTR) showcased the opportunities for inclusion in the DETOUR project at the HOLIDAY & SPA EXPO, an international tourism exhibition. Held annually in Sofia, Bulgaria, the event is the largest tourism fair in the country and one of the most significant in Southeast Europe. It attracts over 200 exhibitors and thousands of visitors each year, serving as a vital platform for networking, promotion, and the exchange of best practices. The exhibition plays a crucial role in the development and international visibility of the tourism sector.

Holiday & SPA Expo brings together a diverse range of tourism stakeholders, including tour operators, travel agencies, municipalities, regions, countries, hotels and resorts, tourism organizations, tech providers, and digital solution companies. The event is supported by the Ministry of Tourism of Bulgaria and takes place at the Inter Expo Center in Sofia.

The main focus areas for the 2026 edition covered various tourism segments, such as cultural and city tourism, SPA, wellness and medical tourism, wine and gastronomy, eco, rural and adventure tourism, and business and conference tourism. Additionally, the event featured seminars, presentations, workshops, B2B meetings, and networking opportunities, alongside digital tourism solutions like the "Digital Box." This aligns perfectly with the mission of DETOUR, which is dedicated to supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the slow tourism sector. By connecting these businesses with international networks and promoting sustainable tourism practices, DETOUR helps to create opportunities for growth and visibility, ultimately strengthening the slow tourism ecosystem and encouraging more meaningful travel experiences.

[Credits: AEVF]