Tourism is now one of the world’s leading economic activities and has profoundly transformed many cities. The growth of urban tourism has brought new opportunities, but also challenges related to housing, public space, mobility, quality of life, and the identity of local communities.
From Barcelona to Venice, from Amsterdam to Lisbon, the question is no longer simply how to attract more tourists, but has shifted to a new challenge: what model of tourism do we want for our cities?
Portugal has kept pace with this transformation. From a destination traditionally associated with sun and beaches, it has gradually established itself as an urban and cultural destination of great international prominence, with a consequent increase in tourist pressure on its cities.
At this event, the discussion will focus on the case of Lisbon, particularly the Baixa district and Avenida da Liberdade, analyzing the impact of tourism on urban renewal, the city’s vitality, and the use of public spaces. The discussion will also address the challenges related to the management of these areas and the prospects for the future of the city. Moderator Margarida Caldeira is an architect and director of the Lisbon and São Paulo studios at Broadway Malyan, and is also responsible for the Group’s international hospitality division. With a career spanning Portugal and various international markets, she is currently Past Chair of ULI Portugal and a member of the Board of Directors of WIRE Portugal.
Speakers Bernardo Trindade served as Secretary of State for Tourism from 2005 to 2011, contributing to the reorganization and development of Portugal’s tourism sector.He currently serves on the board of PortoBay Hotels & Resorts Group.
Eric Van Leuven has lived and worked in Portugal since 1982 and led Cushman & Wakefield Portugal for 35 years. He currently remains with the company as an Executive Partner, focusing on client relations and business development.
Henrique Veiga has over 30 years of experience in the tourism and hospitality sectors as an investor, manager, and mentor, having led projects in various international markets. Founder of AEQUITATE and Global Hospitality, he is currently CEO of AEQUITATE and BAE Ventures, and a partner at FCJ Corporate Venture Builder and the Sublime Hotels Group.
Admission to the event is free, but registration is required as seating is limited. The session will take place on September 10, at 4:00 p.m., at the Roca Lisboa Gallery.