Puerto de la Cruz honored those who made the city a tourist gem.

World Tourism Day in Puerto de la Cruz was a celebration! The city honored five individuals and organizations that have made significant contributions to making Puerto de la Cruz what it is today – welcoming, sincere, and special.

The honorees, their families, friends, local authorities, and many residents and tourists gathered on the terrace of the Martiánez shopping center. Everyone wanted to express their respect. The highlight of the evening was a concert by the famous folk group Los Gofiones, who have been delighting people with their music for over 50 years. They created a true Canarian atmosphere!

The city's mayor, Leopoldo Afonso, said: "Today we thank not only tourism but also those who have developed it through their dedication and hard work." Desiree Díaz, the tourism councilor, added: "Puerto de la Cruz has become so wonderful thanks to these people. This is not just an honor, but an expression of our love and gratitude."

Here are the people who were honored that day:

• Dr. Pedro Luis Cobiella: a doctor and entrepreneur who was the first to realize that quality medicine was needed for the development of tourism. He founded Grupo Hospiten, Hotel Buenavista Club, and was president of Ashotel. His contribution has made the tourism industry more reliable and professional.

• Hortensia Hernández: a pioneer of motorsport in the Canary Islands, and later the head of the Center for Initiatives and Tourism. Thanks to her, the city saw the emergence of such famous events as Puerto de la Cruz en Flor, Mueca, and Bavarian Week. She showed that tourism is not just about economics, but also a way to unite people and care for their city.

• Olvido Guerrero: the manager of Viajes Divertours, who treats each client with special attention. She is always ready to listen, help, and support. Her agency has become a place where people trust and feel at home. She reminds us that the most important thing about a trip is how we feel.

• Enrique Talg: a successor to the family business, who manages Hotel Tigaiga. He is also the vice president of Ashotel in the northern zone. Enrique promotes responsible and ecological tourism. He implements sustainable development policies to ensure that tourism does not harm nature.

• CIT (Center for Initiatives and Tourism): an organization that has united residents, entrepreneurs, and those who love the city. They implement important projects that make Puerto de la Cruz a better place. Under the leadership of Juan José Hernández Meliana, CIT organizes Bavarian Week, the Agatha Christie Festival, Puerto de la Cruz en Flor, and other events.

The Puerto de la Cruz City Council reminded everyone that tourism is not just about numbers and buildings, but also about the stories of the people who make this place special. On September 27, the city celebrated those whose work makes it more beautiful, fairer, and more humane.