THE IMPORTANCE OF “FESTIVAL MED” FOR TOURISM AND CULTURAL DEVELOPMENT OF LOULÉ

Abstract

The cultural and creative tourism is an increasingly important vehicle for economic development of region's attractiveness as a factor that enhances the competitiveness of the destination and in this context the Festival Med is a manifestation of cultural and creative tourism in the Algarve which has allowed the economic development of the town of Loulé and that was the engine of regeneration and rehabilitation of the historic center.

The analysis of the studies and other elements that formed the basis of this article shows that the festival is therefore a mean to promote the well-being of residents and visitors, to allow diversifying the local economy, and represents a potential increase in profits for the merchants of the city and the hospitality industry. It diffuses the Mediterranean culture and history, attracts visitors interested in knowledge of the traditions of the nations represented and, moreover, attracts investment to the county.

The Festival Med is a focus of tourist attraction in this region of the Algarve and it stands as a project that launches the city's reputation beyond its borders since the script integrates the festivals of "world music" in Europe, having potencial to boost the growing of tourism in the region.