Caitlan Etchevers, Global Business and Trade Manager for Visit Lauderdale, was one of the standout figures at the Roadshow organized by AVIAREPS Spain, which toured Lisbon, Madrid, and Barcelona alongside other international destinations. Her participation generated significant interest as she presented Fort Lauderdale's top-tier tourism offerings to European travelers, particularly from the Spanish market.

During her stop in Barcelona, Caitlan Etchevers spoke with ABC MUNDIAL Spain about the expectations of attracting European tourists to the region.

"We are planting seeds for the future"

“We are very excited to be here in Spain. We want to better understand how the market works and plant some seeds so more people can discover our destination,” Etchevers shared during her meeting in Barcelona. In the conversation, she explained that in addition to being a paradise with beautiful beaches, Fort Lauderdale offers a rich culture influenced by the Caribbean and is known as the "Yachting Capital of the World."

Etchevers highlighted the diversity of water activities available in the region. “What surprises most visitors is the connection to water and nature. We have over 350 miles of navigable canals and a wide range of outdoor activities like boating and kayaking. Our cuisine also stands out, with plenty of fresh seafood and a blend of Caribbean flavors.”

A diverse and high-quality hotel offering

Regarding accommodations, Etchevers emphasized the wide range of lodging options in Fort Lauderdale. “We have more than 550 hotels in the area, catering to all types of budgets and preferences. From hotels near the cruise terminals to those close to famous shopping centers like Sawgrass Mills. We want every visitor to feel welcome, regardless of where they come from or what language they speak.”

Connecting with Spanish tourists

When Héctor Heredia asked about the profile of Spanish tourists, Caitlan explained that they are still in the process of defining the market. “We know that families tend to visit Florida for the attractions, especially Orlando, which is very close. But we are also seeing many couples choose our beaches after visiting the theme parks. We believe that Fort Lauderdale is the perfect place to combine a beach getaway with the vibrant activities Orlando has to offer.”

Exploring the European market

Visit Lauderdale’s Roadshow took Caitlan and her team to Lisbon, Madrid, and Barcelona. “We are very pleased with the reception in Europe. Everyone has been very kind and eager to learn about what we have to offer. When people think of the U.S., they often think of New York, California, or Miami, but Fort Lauderdale has its own charm. We want European travelers to discover it.”

Etchevers mentioned that other members of her team are also exploring the London market, reinforcing Visit Lauderdale’s presence in Europe. “It is essential for us to understand these markets and see how we can attract more tourists. Our message is clear: a destination to enjoy under the sun, with great weather year-round.”

Messi’s impact on destination promotion

Caitlan didn’t miss the chance to mention Lionel Messi, who now plays for Inter Miami, based at the DRV PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale. “We know Messi is a very important figure, especially for Argentinians and football fans in general. His presence in Fort Lauderdale is another reason for travelers, especially from Latin America, to visit us. The stadium is just 20 minutes from the airport and the train station, making it a must-visit for football fans.”

Cruise port developments

Regarding updates, Etchevers highlighted the growth of Port Everglades’ cruise operations. “This year, we’ve added departures from Disney Cruise Line, in addition to regular lines like Celebrity and Royal Caribbean. The port is a key driver for tourism in Fort Lauderdale, and we are confident it will continue to grow in the coming years.”

Improved connectivity and accessibility

Another key point discussed was connectivity. Fort Lauderdale’s accessibility has greatly improved with the Brightline high-speed train. “With the station in downtown Fort Lauderdale, it's possible to reach Orlando in three hours or Miami in just 25 minutes. This makes Fort Lauderdale an excellent option for those who want to combine a visit to Orlando’s theme parks with a few days at the beach.”