The Center for Responsible Travel (CREST) has announced the 8th annual World Tourism Forum, taking place November 4–6, 2025, on the shores of Cape Cod at the Pelham House Resort. Underscoring the urgent need for bold action in tourism, this year’s theme of “Sustainable Transformation: Where Knowledge Sparks Impact, from the Cape to the World,” will cover topics from climate adaptation to equitable workforce development.
Far from a typical conference, the World Tourism Forum is an immersive, cross-sector gathering of thought leaders from across the industry. Participants include policymakers, academics, community advocates and tourism professionals, all united in a commitment to transform travel for the better. This year, the forum is presented in collaboration with CARE for the Cape & Islands, and will feature:
- High-impact keynote panels and thought-provoking conversations
- Hands-on, community-based Experience Day activities
- Collaborative workshops that build real-world solutions
- A peer-reviewed research and poster exchange bridging academia and practice
The travel industry is facing major hurdles such as economic uncertainty, climate threats, overtourism, resident housing shortages and loss of biodiversity, and this forum will aim to address these concerns starting with a local lens and broadening to global implications. The Cape & Islands’ picturesque landscapes, rich heritage and current tourism challenges and opportunities make it the ideal setting for this dynamic exchange.
The 2024 Forum drew attendees from 16 countries and 22 U.S. states, including leaders from the World Bank, Intrepid Travel, Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change, Hilton Hotels and a host of grassroots organizations, academics and community voices. The 2025 Forum will build on this legacy with expanded regional engagement and deeper collaboration in the Northeast. It will continue to build on the research and collaboration curated from past forums with themes ranging from AI in the tourism workforce, coastal resilience and the blue economy.
Those registering by August 31 can take advantage of a limited-time rate ($349.00 + fees). Attendees will also receive exclusive hotel rates of $199/night at Pelham Hospitality’s waterfront property, Pelham House Resort.
To register, submit proposals or learn more, visit www.responsibletravel.org/2025-world-tourism-day-forum.
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