MURCIA Region has been extolling its own virtues as a holiday destination for European retirees and 'empty-nesters' at the Active Over 50s' Show in Dublin.
Head of the regional tourism institute Manuel Fernández-Delgado says targeting holidaymakers at the latter end of their careers, already enjoying retirement and with their children either growing up or already having left home was 'a key strategy' for transforming the industry in Murcia, particularly as it enables the region to extend the summer season from May to September inclusive, as this age group rarely has to try to fit in foreign breaks with school holidays.
And the over-50s tend to have a higher level of disposable income, says Fernández-Delgado, meaning they spend more in restaurants, shops and on transport for day trips.
For those well into retirement and starting to feel the effects of ageing, Murcia's coast has long been a popular destination – the inland sea, the Mar Menor is warmer than that of any other beach on the mainland and is known for its high mineral properties, which middle-aged and elderly tourists find eases joint pain and arthritis.
The tourism boss says Murcia Region is working on specially-designed excursions to suit the over-50s, with 'adapted' versions for pensioners who are struggling with movement.
Organised partly by Spain's national tourist board, Turespaña, the fair included interviews with potential job candidates seeking work in Murcia Region over the long summer.
A brochure in several languages was published ahead of the fair, describing the attractions of Murcia as a holiday destination and different types of package and activities aimed at different segments of the market.
It emphasised the excellent weather, the Costa Cálida – which literally translates as 'the warm coast' – and the Mar Menor, city breaks in Murcia itself and in Cartagena, wine tours to well-known vineyard districts such as Yecla and Jumilla, the region's wealth of spa complexes, its cuisine, 'active' holidays and arts and entertainment.
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