World Tourism Day 2011 takes places on 27 September, and will run under the theme: ‘Tourism – Linking Cultures’. Aswan will play host to a range of events, and talks by senior tourism officials examining how the tourism industry is meeting the UN World Tourism Organisation’s goals on responsible tourism. Egypt is world famous for its history, scenery, diving and culture and as a result millions of tourists visit Egypt every year. It is precisely this interaction between the peoples and cultures of the world, driven by tourism, which is at the heart of the ‘Tourism – Linking Culture’s theme.

Aswan is perfectly placed to host World Tourism Day, as one of Egypt’s leading tourist destinations. Aswan will offer delegates and visitors a host of impressive sights and attractions, such as Abu Simbel, the Aswan Dam, Lake Nasser, nearby Luxor and, of course, Nile Cruises. This Autumn will also see the re-opening of Aswan’s iconic Old Cataract Hotel on the banks of the Nile.

The Egyptian Tourism Minister, Mounir Fakhri Abdel Nour, has invited tourism ministers and heads of tourism associations from around the world to participate in this important event. As well as bringing focus to Egypt as a destination, local hotels, restaurants and businesses will be able to showcase their services to visiting figures in the travel and tourism industry and media.

For more information about the UNWTO and WTD-2011 please visit http://unwto.org/en