Cover story for Leisure Group Travel Magazine (February 2010 Issue)
Top 10 Emerging Destinations in Faith-based Tourism
View the entire story at http://bit.ly/EmergingDestinationsFaithTourism2010
The president of the World Religious Travel Association identifies 10 places ripe for religious group tours.
1) Armenia
2) Colombia
3) Lebanon
4) Syria
5) India
6) Cyprus
7) Palestine
8) Ethiopia
9) Poland
10) Quebec, Canada
January 29, 2010
Religious tourism among Bogotá´s churches
Link: http://colombiareports.com/travel-in-colombia/94-bogota/6959-bogota-and-its-churches-religious.html
Under a new campaign by Colombia’s tourism ministry, the country promotes Bogota as a religious destination. Following a path leading to some of the more than 200 churches and parishes in the capital is the perfect example of “religious tourism,” according to the Internet website www.colombia.travel/es.
“In addition to the solemn pilgrimage and celebrations, there are fascinating stories and legends on which the temples were erected, some superb architecture and stunning ornaments inside,” the official tourism site says.
Stunning photographs accompany some of the more famous examples to be visited in Bogota:
Monserrate Sanctuary
Completed around 1657, the church sits on the crest of a mountain.
Construction was authorized by the Spaniard Don Juan de Borja, a
devotee of the patron “Black Virgen of Monserrat,” whose replica,
called the Moeneta, is guarded in the church.
Santuario de Guadalupe
On the highest hill of the city stands the 15-meter sculpture of the
Immaculate Conception, a work by the master Gustavo Arcila Uribe. The
small chapel survived several earthquakes in the 18th and 19th
centuries, and is dedicated to the Virgin of Guadalupe. Besides being
a pilgrimage destination, the site lends a spectacular view of Bogota.
Santuario de la Peña
A unique site for this eastern chapel, whose origin is based on an
image of “La Sangrada Familia,” or The Sacred Family, carved in the
mountain rock centuries ago. The chapel honors the Virgin of Guadalupe
by the parish priest.
Our Lady of Mount Caramel Church
Characterized by its outer bands of red and white Gothic architectural
style, this church is one of the most emblematic of the historical
center of Bogota. Its construction began in 1927 and on April 30, 1993
was declared a national monument.
Church of the Holy Infant Jesus of July 20
Thanks to the devotion of thousands of faithful around the image of
the Divine Child. Salesian Father Juan del Rizzo on July 20, 1936,
convened the community to raise money to build the church, later
completed in 1942.
Church St. Alphonsus Liguori
A crowd of parishioners frequent the church of the La Soledad
neighborhood, who come to venerate the “Lord of Miracles.” The church,
also known as the custody of the image, preserves in its interior art
samples from the 17th Century.
Under a new campaign by Colombia’s tourism ministry, the country promotes Bogota as a religious destination. Following a path leading to some of the more than 200 churches and parishes in the capital is the perfect example of “religious tourism,” according to the Internet website www.colombia.travel/es.
“In addition to the solemn pilgrimage and celebrations, there are fascinating stories and legends on which the temples were erected, some superb architecture and stunning ornaments inside,” the official tourism site says.
Stunning photographs accompany some of the more famous examples to be visited in Bogota:
Monserrate Sanctuary
Completed around 1657, the church sits on the crest of a mountain.
Construction was authorized by the Spaniard Don Juan de Borja, a
devotee of the patron “Black Virgen of Monserrat,” whose replica,
called the Moeneta, is guarded in the church.
Santuario de Guadalupe
On the highest hill of the city stands the 15-meter sculpture of the
Immaculate Conception, a work by the master Gustavo Arcila Uribe. The
small chapel survived several earthquakes in the 18th and 19th
centuries, and is dedicated to the Virgin of Guadalupe. Besides being
a pilgrimage destination, the site lends a spectacular view of Bogota.
Santuario de la Peña
A unique site for this eastern chapel, whose origin is based on an
image of “La Sangrada Familia,” or The Sacred Family, carved in the
mountain rock centuries ago. The chapel honors the Virgin of Guadalupe
by the parish priest.
Our Lady of Mount Caramel Church
Characterized by its outer bands of red and white Gothic architectural
style, this church is one of the most emblematic of the historical
center of Bogota. Its construction began in 1927 and on April 30, 1993
was declared a national monument.
Church of the Holy Infant Jesus of July 20
Thanks to the devotion of thousands of faithful around the image of
the Divine Child. Salesian Father Juan del Rizzo on July 20, 1936,
convened the community to raise money to build the church, later
completed in 1942.
Church St. Alphonsus Liguori
A crowd of parishioners frequent the church of the La Soledad
neighborhood, who come to venerate the “Lord of Miracles.” The church,
also known as the custody of the image, preserves in its interior art
samples from the 17th Century.
Special Invitationt to Discover Turkey & Attend IDE 2010
Join me in Turkey this Spring.....
I am very excited to announce that WRTA is a proud sponsor of the 5th annual International Destination Expo (IDE). This April 19-22, in Istanbul, Turkey, the IDE will provide four action-packed days of educational sessions, networking with local suppliers from the Holy Land/Middle East, and captivating local sightseeing. IDE is unique in that it is the only destination-focused show that provides certifications of expertise to its attendees - this is a great way to expand your professional profile and attract new clients. Best yet, qualified travel agents will receive a 4 night hotel stay* with their registration.
I am also thrilled to share with you that I will be moderating the following panel discussion at IDE:
Discover How to Build a Thriving Faith-based Travel Program Centered on the World's Top Religious Sites in the Middle East and Holy Land
Our discussion will feature leading tourism representatives from Middle Eastern destinations. Other faith-based seminars at IDE include Turkey, Europe's Unknown Pilgrimage Destination. In addition, you can explore Turkey's many religious sites firsthand on pre- and post- conference tours that are specially priced for IDE delegates.
I invite you to join me in Istanbul this April as we together discover what makes Turkey one of the world's leading religious destinations while also deepening our knowledge of this remarkable country!
See you in Turkey - where "East Meets West"...
Sincerely,
Kevin J. Wright
I am very excited to announce that WRTA is a proud sponsor of the 5th annual International Destination Expo (IDE). This April 19-22, in Istanbul, Turkey, the IDE will provide four action-packed days of educational sessions, networking with local suppliers from the Holy Land/Middle East, and captivating local sightseeing. IDE is unique in that it is the only destination-focused show that provides certifications of expertise to its attendees - this is a great way to expand your professional profile and attract new clients. Best yet, qualified travel agents will receive a 4 night hotel stay* with their registration.
I am also thrilled to share with you that I will be moderating the following panel discussion at IDE:
Discover How to Build a Thriving Faith-based Travel Program Centered on the World's Top Religious Sites in the Middle East and Holy Land
Our discussion will feature leading tourism representatives from Middle Eastern destinations. Other faith-based seminars at IDE include Turkey, Europe's Unknown Pilgrimage Destination. In addition, you can explore Turkey's many religious sites firsthand on pre- and post- conference tours that are specially priced for IDE delegates.
I invite you to join me in Istanbul this April as we together discover what makes Turkey one of the world's leading religious destinations while also deepening our knowledge of this remarkable country!
See you in Turkey - where "East Meets West"...
Sincerely,
Kevin J. Wright
January 24, 2010
Year of Pilgrimages Begins
by Tim Drake Thursday, January 07, 2010
Article link: http://www.ncregister.com/blog/year_of_pilgrimages_begins/
2010 is going to be a banner year for religious pilgrimages.
Ten million pilgrims are expected to travel to Compostela, Spain, to venerate the relics of St. James the Greater. 2010 is a holy year in Compostela, Spain, because the feast Day of St. James the Greater falls on a Sunday.
Another pilgrimage site set to receive a great number of visitors is the Italian town of Turin.
The Italian Archdiocese of Turin will be putting the Shroud of Turin on rare public display between April 10 and May 23, 2010. This is the shroud’s first public display since it underwent major cleaning and restoration in 2002. That work included the removing of 30 fabric patches and a fabric backing that was sewn onto the shroud in 1534 after a fire.
Pope Benedict XVI will make a pastoral visit to the shroud on May 2, 2010. The Italian newspaper Libero is reporting that some 600,000 people have already reserved tickets to see the Shroud during its 44 day display.
Of course, the Year for Priests continues in 2010. Multiple priest and seminarian pilgrimage groups have been making their way to Ars, France, home to St. John Marie Vianney, the patron saint of priests. In addition, an international gathering of priests will be on hand in Rome for the conclusion of the Year for Priests on June 9-11, 2010.
Finally, pilgrims will also be making their way to Oberammergau, Germany, for the performance of the Oberammergau Passion Play, which takes place every 10 years.
The history of the play dates back to 1633. After months of suffering from a plague, the people of Oberammergau vowed to perform the play every 10 years if they were spared. Miraculously, from that point on, they survived, and the villagers have performed the play ever since. This year, the play opens May 15, 2010, and ends on Oct. 3, 2010.
Article link: http://www.ncregister.com/blog/year_of_pilgrimages_begins/
2010 is going to be a banner year for religious pilgrimages.
Ten million pilgrims are expected to travel to Compostela, Spain, to venerate the relics of St. James the Greater. 2010 is a holy year in Compostela, Spain, because the feast Day of St. James the Greater falls on a Sunday.
Another pilgrimage site set to receive a great number of visitors is the Italian town of Turin.
The Italian Archdiocese of Turin will be putting the Shroud of Turin on rare public display between April 10 and May 23, 2010. This is the shroud’s first public display since it underwent major cleaning and restoration in 2002. That work included the removing of 30 fabric patches and a fabric backing that was sewn onto the shroud in 1534 after a fire.
Pope Benedict XVI will make a pastoral visit to the shroud on May 2, 2010. The Italian newspaper Libero is reporting that some 600,000 people have already reserved tickets to see the Shroud during its 44 day display.
Of course, the Year for Priests continues in 2010. Multiple priest and seminarian pilgrimage groups have been making their way to Ars, France, home to St. John Marie Vianney, the patron saint of priests. In addition, an international gathering of priests will be on hand in Rome for the conclusion of the Year for Priests on June 9-11, 2010.
Finally, pilgrims will also be making their way to Oberammergau, Germany, for the performance of the Oberammergau Passion Play, which takes place every 10 years.
The history of the play dates back to 1633. After months of suffering from a plague, the people of Oberammergau vowed to perform the play every 10 years if they were spared. Miraculously, from that point on, they survived, and the villagers have performed the play ever since. This year, the play opens May 15, 2010, and ends on Oct. 3, 2010.
January 21, 2010
Join the World Religious Travel Association at a new low rate!
Join WRTA Now & Make 2010 Your Best Year Ever!
Now is your opportunity to join the premier association for faith-based travel at a new low rate!
The World Religious Travel Association is offering a low $499 rate for all destinations, attractions and suppliers looking to target the 300 million traveler religious market in 2010. Travel agents also have a low rate at $99.
Make 2010 your best year ever by becoming part of one of the fastest growing and most resilient markets in the travel industry -- Religious Travel and Hospitality.
WRTA is the only global association dedicated to the Religious Travel and Hospitality Industry. Our members come from 30-plus countries on 6 continents and include the entire "infrastructure" of the faith tourism marketplace including wholesalers, suppliers, destinations, travel agents, and planners.
Religious travel and hospitality is an industry comprised of 300 million travelers globally and is recognized as one of the fastest growing segments in the travel marketplace. Religious travel and hospitality today features virtually every type of travel and event including pilgrimages, conventions/ meetings, leisure vacations, cruising, adventure/ safaris, attractions, missionary travel, volunteer vacations, and much more. It is one of the most resilient markets.
To join WRTA, contact the staff or click here: http://bit.ly/JoinWRTA2010
January 20, 2010
WRTA Statement on Haiti
Statement Link: http://bit.ly/WRTAHaiti
Jan 20, 2010
WRTA Statement on Haiti
The World Religious Travel Association (WRTA) expresses its solidarity with and condolences to the people of Haiti, especially in the wake of the country’s recent earthquake, devastation, and loss of life. WRTA, which serves as the voice of religious travel, is keenly aware that Haiti’s recovery and reconstruction process will be ongoing in the coming days, months, and years. For this reason, WRTA calls on faith-based organizations, communities, and individuals, as well as the religious travel industry at large, to generously respond to these efforts especially through the financial support of and/or participation in missionary travel, humanitarian relief, and voluntourism (volunteer vacations) to Haiti.
Jan 20, 2010
WRTA Statement on Haiti
The World Religious Travel Association (WRTA) expresses its solidarity with and condolences to the people of Haiti, especially in the wake of the country’s recent earthquake, devastation, and loss of life. WRTA, which serves as the voice of religious travel, is keenly aware that Haiti’s recovery and reconstruction process will be ongoing in the coming days, months, and years. For this reason, WRTA calls on faith-based organizations, communities, and individuals, as well as the religious travel industry at large, to generously respond to these efforts especially through the financial support of and/or participation in missionary travel, humanitarian relief, and voluntourism (volunteer vacations) to Haiti.
January 14, 2010
Register today for ASTA IDE Istanbul, Turkey April 19-22, 2010
ASTA Rates Increase March 1st, Register NOW and Save!
Attending this year's International Destination Expo will provide you with a unique opportunity to learn about the fascinating destination of Turkey. Featuring education that focuses on training you to become an expert and networking with local companies, IDE equips you with the skills to exceed your clients' expectations!
Gain certifications of your expertise in exciting new sessions such as ASTA's newest destination specialist course: Turkey, the Cradle of Civilization: a Walk through 10,000 Years of History.
IDE will also host a panel discussion, Discover How to Build a Thriving Faith-based Travel Program Centered on the World's Top Religious Sites in the Middle East and the Holy Land, featuring leading tourism representatives from Middle Eastern destinations. Don't miss this exciting event!
Discover How to Build a Thriving Faith-based Travel Program Centered on the World’s Top Religious Sites in the Middle East and Holy Land
Moderator: Kevin J. Wright, President - World Religious Travel Association
Panelists will include leading tourism representatives from Middle Eastern Destinations
Join Kevin J. Wright, president of the World Religious Travel Association (WRTA), and leading tourism representatives from the Middle East, for an unforgettable and unprecedented discussion on the world’s top religious and holy sites in this extraordinary part of the world. Furthermore, discover firsthand how to develop a thriving and diverse faith-based travel program centered on the great religious itineraries stretching across these ancient and biblically-rich lands such as Turkey, Armenia, Greece, Cyprus, Israel, Jordan, Palestine, and much more.
Attending this year's International Destination Expo will provide you with a unique opportunity to learn about the fascinating destination of Turkey. Featuring education that focuses on training you to become an expert and networking with local companies, IDE equips you with the skills to exceed your clients' expectations!
Gain certifications of your expertise in exciting new sessions such as ASTA's newest destination specialist course: Turkey, the Cradle of Civilization: a Walk through 10,000 Years of History.
IDE will also host a panel discussion, Discover How to Build a Thriving Faith-based Travel Program Centered on the World's Top Religious Sites in the Middle East and the Holy Land, featuring leading tourism representatives from Middle Eastern destinations. Don't miss this exciting event!
Discover How to Build a Thriving Faith-based Travel Program Centered on the World’s Top Religious Sites in the Middle East and Holy Land
Moderator: Kevin J. Wright, President - World Religious Travel Association
Panelists will include leading tourism representatives from Middle Eastern Destinations
Join Kevin J. Wright, president of the World Religious Travel Association (WRTA), and leading tourism representatives from the Middle East, for an unforgettable and unprecedented discussion on the world’s top religious and holy sites in this extraordinary part of the world. Furthermore, discover firsthand how to develop a thriving and diverse faith-based travel program centered on the great religious itineraries stretching across these ancient and biblically-rich lands such as Turkey, Armenia, Greece, Cyprus, Israel, Jordan, Palestine, and much more.
Not only will you be inspired and fascinated by the discussions, but just as importantly, you’ll return home equipped with the much-needed knowledge and strategies to immediately impact your faith-based travel program ... no matter whether you are new to religious tourism or a long-term expert. Best of all, this remarkable discussion and seminar will be held in Istanbul (Turkey) ... not only the very crossroads and place where “East Meets West,” but also where the history of faith and religion spans the millenniums.
Register NOW to receive 4 nights complimentary hotel stay* in Istanbul -- hurry, space is limited!
*Space is limited. Offer is first-come, first-served while supplies last.
Register NOW to receive 4 nights complimentary hotel stay* in Istanbul -- hurry, space is limited!
*Space is limited. Offer is first-come, first-served while supplies last.
January 11, 2010
Religious Travel Top Travel Trend for 2010 (USA TODAY)
The top ten travel trends for 2010
USA Today
By Laura Bly
Religious Travel ranks as Top 10 Travel Trend for 2010.
Read full story at http://bit.ly/USATODAYReligiousTravelTopTrend2010
USA Today
By Laura Bly
Religious Travel ranks as Top 10 Travel Trend for 2010.
Read full story at http://bit.ly/USATODAYReligiousTravelTopTrend2010
A Year for Christian Tourism - New York Times
A Year for Christian Tourism
by David Farley
The New York Times
Article opening: It’s shaping up to be an auspicious year for Christian tourism, thanks to two infrequent religious events in Europe.
Click here to read the full story: http://intransit.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/01/05/a-year-for-christian-tourism/
by David Farley
The New York Times
Article opening: It’s shaping up to be an auspicious year for Christian tourism, thanks to two infrequent religious events in Europe.
Click here to read the full story: http://intransit.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/01/05/a-year-for-christian-tourism/
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