Crisis in tourism: Closed information endangers East Belgium's events!

Crisis in tourism: Closed information endangers East Belgium's events!

Tourism information in the East Belgium region has recently faced major challenges. How BRF reported that the tourist information centers in Burg-Reuland and Malmedy are currently closed due to illness. In Kelmis, the information point also had to be closed due to an accident in which a bus drove into the facade of the Select. The tourist information center in Kelmis had recently changed its location, and tourism alderman Björn Klinkenberg said that it was difficult to foresee a reopening in the near future.

The situation is complex. The liability issue has been clarified, but this is an insured event. The damage to the old quarry stone masonry must first be assessed by experts and insurance companies before repairs can be ordered. Until then, brochures have been distributed at three different locations, including the Vieille Montagne Museum, the Park Hotel and the municipal administration. Inquiries to the tourism office will be forwarded directly to the municipal administration.

Reopenings uncertain

In Malmedy, a reopening is not expected until August at the earliest, while information is available through the tourist information office in St. Vith. Rumors are circulating in Burg-Reuland about a possible permanent closure of the office. However, Tourism Minister Gregor Freches emphasized that the final word on the closure had not yet been spoken.

East Belgium is pursuing a new tourism strategy that envisages the possibility of four central tourism centers in the region. Two of these houses are to be set up in the south, probably in Bütgenbach and St. Vith. The central houses are intended to promote tourism throughout East Belgium. Digital information columns could also be installed in communities like Burg-Reuland to increase visitor numbers.

Sustainability and digitalization in focus

Representatives of the tourism industry in East Belgium have drawn up a common vision for the development of the tourism sector until 2040. The focus is on the collaboration of all actors, sustainability and digitalization. The tourism sector is seen as a driver for a sustainably livable region for guests and locals, which promotes regional added value. East Belgium has established itself as a dynamic natural region that is also known beyond regional borders.

The regrettable closure of the tourist information office in Burg-Reuland also casts a shadow on local events. Critic Cindy Cornely expressed concerns that local offerings such as hiking tours and vacation rentals could suffer major negative impacts. She fears that events such as the Medieval Festival will no longer be able to take place without the support of the Tourist Information Office.

The situation remains tense and those responsible are faced with the challenge of setting the right course for the future of tourism in East Belgium while at the same time having to respond to the current problems.