The World Food Travel Association (WFTA), founded in 2003 by Erik Wolf, celebrates and preserves culinary traditions worldwide. As the leading authority on food tourism, the WFTA highlights how food and drink enrich travel experiences. Their mission is to protect and promote culinary cultures through hospitality and tourism, supporting local communities in creating unique food and drink experiences that attract tourists and stimulate economic growth. Key initiatives include culinary certification programs, Food Trekking Awards, World Food Travel Day, and extensive research and advocacy. The WFTA’s work promotes sustainability and cultural preservation, ensuring traditional foodways are respected for future generations.
Exploring the World Through Cuisine: The Impact of the World Food Travel Association
Food is a universal language that connects cultures, tells stories, and fosters connections. Understanding this, the World Food Travel Association (WFTA), founded in 2003 by Erik Wolf, celebrates and preserves culinary traditions worldwide. As the leading authority on food tourism, the WFTA highlights how food and drink enrich travel experiences.
Mission and Vision
The WFTA is on a mission to protect and promote culinary cultures through hospitality and tourism. They envision a world where these traditions are not just respected but also cherished and protected. By helping local communities create unique food and drink experiences, the WFTA attracts tourists and stimulates economic growth, all while promoting sustainable tourism.
Key Initiatives
1. Culinary Certification Programs: These programs give industry professionals the tools they need to develop and promote food tourism. They cover everything from marketing to preserving food heritage.
2. Food Trekking Awards: These awards celebrate the best in food and beverage tourism, recognising achievements like the Best Food or Beverage Tour Experience and the Best Food Tourism Campaign.
3. World Food Travel Day: Held every year on April 18, this day is dedicated to raising awareness about preserving culinary cultures. It’s a chance for people to showcase their culinary heritage.
4. Research and Advocacy: The WFTA conducts research to understand the trends and challenges in food tourism. They use this information to shape policies for sustainable and responsible tourism while advocating for the protection of culinary traditions.
Impact on Global Tourism
The WFTA’s work has a huge impact on global tourism. By promoting food tourism, they help destinations create unique culinary experiences that draw visitors and boost local economies. Their focus on sustainability and cultural preservation encourages responsible tourism, ensuring that traditional foodways are respected and preserved for future generations.
As food tourism continues to grow, the WFTA is committed to supporting culinary cultures worldwide. They are always innovating, educating, and advocating to shape the future of food tourism. Their efforts ensure that food remains a central and cherished part of the travel experience, bringing people closer together and enriching our cultural landscape.
The WFTA plays a vital role in celebrating and preserving global culinary traditions. Whether you’re a traveller looking for new culinary adventures or an industry professional working to develop food tourism in your area, the WFTA provides valuable resources and support for your journey.
Written by: Jamini Shah
