Orihuela, December 3, 2025 – The City of Orihuela held its Plenary session of the Sectorial Tourism Council today, chaired by Mayor Pepe Vegara, to advance the municipality’s strategic tourism planning for 2025–2026.
The meeting reviewed progress on the PSTD ‘Orihuela, a Sustainable and Diversified Destination’, highlighting improvements in cruise tourism, marketing strategy, visitor experience, and signage. Council members also reported on the year’s work across five thematic committees and the Permanent Commission, which focused on enhancing campaigns, extending museum hours, expanding tourist information, promoting digital initiatives, and improving accessibility.
A key development was the approval of merging two existing committees into a single group focused on “Product, Promotion, Accessibility, and Digitalization”, aimed at streamlining planning and coordination. The city also highlighted the role of its Smart Office, which uses data analytics to guide strategic decisions and improve governance.
Controversy Over Representation
Despite the comprehensive agenda, the session drew criticism because no representatives from the large expatriate tourism business sector were invited, leaving a significant stakeholder group absent from discussions on Orihuela’s future tourism strategy.
Councillors emphasized the council’s goal of consolidating a more competitive, sustainable, and cohesive tourism model, but questions remain about whether all key voices—especially those serving the substantial expatriate visitor base—will be included in shaping the municipality’s tourism future.
