Letter from the General Manager of Turespaña

Dear partners and tourism industry professionals: I write to you with the pleasure of sharing one of the great strengths that make Spain a unique and memorable destination: its gastronomy. Today more than ever, travelers seek authentic experiences that connect them with the essence of the places they visit and leave memories that endure far beyond the trip. Few experiences allow you to discover the soul of a destination like its gastronomy. In Spain, every table tells a story, every product reflects a region, and every recipe is the result of centuries of tradition, creativity, and cultural exchange. Gastronomy has thus become one of the most genuine and attractive expressions of the Spain brand, able to inspire travel, awaken emotions, and bring visitors closer to our way of life. From traditional markets full of life to internationally recognized cutting-edge restaurants; from a century-old winery to a tapas route through our cities; from the seafood cuisine of our coasts to the flavors of the rural interior, Spain offers an extraordinary journey through the senses. A mosaic of experiences that invites you to discover the diversity of our regions and connect with their most authentic identity. Our gastronomic richness is the result of a history shared over generations. The imprint of the different cultures that have coexisted in our country has shaped an exceptional culinary heritage that remains alive today in our kitchens, markets, and traditions. This heritage coexists with a constant capacity for innovation that places Spain among the world’s leading gastronomic benchmarks. But Spanish gastronomy is much more than culinary excellence. It is a way to share, to celebrate, and to understand life. It is conversation around the table, locally sourced products, sustainability, hospitality, and unhurried enjoyment. It is also an opportunity to discover lesser-known destinations, boost local economies, and promote a more mindful and enriching way of traveling. Spain is a global benchmark of the Mediterranean Diet and boasts an extraordinary wealth of products with designation of origin, many of which are internationally recognized for their quality and uniqueness. Our pantry holds authentic gastronomic emblems that are internationally unique, such as Iberian ham, Sherry wine, paprika, and anchovies. Moreover, we are the world's leading producer of olive oil, we have one of the largest areas of vineyards on the planet, and we hold a leading position in global wine production; we are also the second-largest producer worldwide of black truffles and offer more than 150 varieties of recognized cheeses, some regarded as among the best in the world. Quality, diversity, and authenticity that allow travelers to discover, in the place they originate, the excellence of our foods and the know-how of those who produce them. I have no doubt that one of the best ways to get to know Spain is to sit at the table and be surprised by the extraordinary variety of flavors, traditions, and experiences our country has to offer. Kind regards, Miguel Sanz