\nFriday, 6 March 2026, 11:44<\/p>\n
| Updated 12:41h.<\/p>\n
The 2026 ITB Berlin travel trade show opened with a grand display of Andalusian ambition, as the region\u2019s tourism leaders showcased what they called a record-breaking year for tourism.<\/p>\n
Despite the sombre global backdrop of the escalating conflict in the Middle East, the atmosphere at the Andalusian pavilion remained one of defiant optimism. Regional tourism minister Arturo Bernal and Costa del Sol tourist board president Francisco Salado led a massive delegation determined to cement the German market\u2019s loyalty, aiming for a milestone of 1.3 million visitors and an economic impact exceeding 1.8 billion euros.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe are here to show that Andaluc\u00eda is a territory of certainty in an uncertain world,\u201d Bernal declared, highlighting the region\u2019s natural resilience. This sentiment was echoed by Salado, who noted that while the war in Iran had caused logistical tremors and shifted flight paths, the Costa del Sol stood as a \u201csafe haven\u201d for international travellers.<\/p>\n
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He emphasised that the German market remained a \u201cstrategic priority\u201d and expressed confidence that the strength of the brand would overcome the volatility of the global situation.<\/p>\n
The presence of individual municipalities was particularly striking this year. Marbella made a sophisticated play for the high-end German traveller, with Mayor \u00c1ngeles Mu\u00f1oz reinforcing the town\u2019s status as a premium destination.<\/p>\n
Meanwhile, Fuengirola\u2019s representatives outlined an aggressive strategy to \u201cconquer\u201d the German market in 2026 and Rinc\u00f3n de la Victoria celebrated a 153 per cent growth in German arrivals over the previous year. To the east, the Axarqu\u00eda towns – including Nerja and Torrox – promoted their unique climate, while Almu\u00f1\u00e9car and the Costa Tropical reinforced their commitment to sustainable growth.<\/p>\n
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Even Almer\u00eda made a significant impact, with delegates showcasing the province\u2019s diverse landscapes.<\/p>\n