Veneto Tourism Agencies Transition Under Provincial Control, Garda Focus
Mandated by the Regione, the tourism promotion companies will, in a few months, in accordance with their delegated powers, come under the control of their respective Provincial Administrations. In this context, which sees new extraordinary commissioners for 11 of the 14 Apt (Tourism Promotion Agencies) in Veneto—none more so than the Garda Lake agency, where the outgoing president has been replaced by Marco Zaninelli, 40 years old from Lazise and president of Assogardacamping, the association bringing together the vast majority of open-air accommodation companies in Verona Province—
At Merenda, who has expressed some discomfort—given that a renewal had long been anticipated—we asked him for a brief, candid assessment of the activities carried out over the past six years when he was at the helm of the Apt Riviera degli Olivi. “My pride during this period is having built a team around Apt 12 that has become a reference point for tourism promotion strategy, achieving results including an increase in tourist arrivals from five million in 1995 to nearly nine million by the end of 2000.
Today, the Garda Apt is recognized as an active and proactive entity, as well as a point of reference both within Italy and internationally,” Merenda explained.
“Another positive experience,” Merenda continues, “has been the collaboration with tourism operators, particularly active with hoteliers and other categories of economic operators. Over the years, they have embraced two fundamental concepts: requalifying structures and improving the quality of services offered, as well as promoting their offerings in relevant markets, especially those speaking German.”
“Another point I see as positive,” Merenda adds, “is discovering the inland areas of Garda—from Mount Baldo to the morainic hills—as an indispensable element of the lake’s tourism offer. These inland regions are rich in sporting, cultural, and enogastronomic opportunities, and excluding them from the tourist circuit would be a crime.”
Among the numerous events and initiatives, which do you think was the most successful? “A particular success was the project linked to the Jubilee, which, over three years, produced 60 artworks that highlighted the region’s scattered art treasures. This event was unique of its kind during the Jubilee period and received appreciation both in Italy and abroad,” Merenda replied.
Alongside these achievements, some regrets are unavoidable… “My main regret is that the concept of tourism as the primary economic source has not always been well understood within municipal administrations, often not receiving the level of attention it deserves. From this perspective,” the outgoing president emphasizes, “I hope that the Commissioner replacing me will maintain contacts with municipal administrations to raise awareness of the idea that investing in tourism and services translates into well-being, safety, and jobs for local citizens.”
Finally, a word of thanks is directed toward the great voluntary spirit discovered throughout these years—specifically to the Pro loco organizations and various Committees that have devoted time, effort, and energy to organizing events across all sectors and areas for their guests,”
