Sardinia is making headlines as it enhances its tourism profile and infrastructure with strategic developments, particularly through participation in international events like the Belgrade Tourism Fair and the establishment of new air travel routes. The island of Sardinia was the only Italian region to take part in the 46th Belgrade Tourism Fair, recently held, showcasing its offerings to potential visitors from Eastern Europe.
At the fair, which saw the participation of Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and the Italian Ambassador to Serbia, Luca Gori, Sardinia was presented as part of the broader Italian tourism theme, emphasizing its unique beauty and diverse attractions. Franco Cuccureddu, Sardinia's Tourism Councilor, praised the significance of the event for the island, stating, “For the first time, Sardinia participates at the Belgrade Tourism Fair, and we do so as protagonists, collaborating closely with ENIT and the Italian Embassy.”
Sardinia’s presentation included discussions about the economic potential linked with the new direct flight connection introduced by Air Serbia, linking Alghero with Belgrade. This direct route offers incredible prospects for increased tourist flows from the booming Serbian market. Cuccureddu noted the interest from the Serbian president, who, during his address, mentioned Sardinia multiple times, generating excitement and media coverage about the region.
“The opening of the new air route is always good news,” remarked Barbara Manca, the Councilor for Transport, highlighting how the Alghero-Belgrade connection opens new opportunities not just for tourism, but also for Sardinians with personal and business ties to the Balkans. With regional economic growth, this flight is expected to be the first of many as Sardinia seeks to establish itself as a key destination for Eastern European travelers.
Besides its participation at the tourism fair, Sardinia is also enhancing its infrastructural capability through significant investments. Initiatives like the Sa.Co.I.3 project aim to establish electrical interconnections with Corsica and Tuscany, facilitating renewable energy integration within Europe, which complements the tourism effort. Terna, the electricity transport operator, has launched the construction of this innovative infrastructure, which received EU funding and is expected to strengthen sustainability efforts across the island.
The interconnection project, backed by substantial investments amounting to €1.35 billion, is positioned to offer strategic advantages for energy exchange among Italy, France, and Corsica. With €200 million allocated from the REPowerEU program, the redevelopment of existing connections will also signal Sardinia's commitment to environmental stewardship.
Construction began at various points including Santa Teresa Gallura, where cable landings will occur, and will continue through different regions, ensuring minimal disturbance during peak tourist seasons. The completion of Sa.Co.I.3 is set for 2029, promising to be one of Europe’s most modern energy infrastructures.
Overall, tourism and infrastructure developments are intertwined as Sardinia seeks to not only attract visitors but also build sustainable economic practices. The newly launched routes complement environmental efforts and establish Sardinia as a formidable destination on the European tourism map. Initiatives to encourage additional airline investments are forthcoming, highlighting the island's proactive approach to enhancing accessibility and attractiveness to tourists.
Through strategic partnerships and innovative infrastructure, Sardinia is poised for significant growth, making it not just a beautiful travel destination, but also supportive of broader regional environmental goals and economic collaborations.