The Destination Campania Workshop was presented by the Italian National Tourist Board (ENIT) and the Region of Campania on February 26, 2026, at the Hotel Seville Nomad Hyatt in New York City. Bringing together dignitaries, cultural leaders, luxury travel professionals, and international partners, the event reflected the region’s evolving global mission that positions Campania as a premier international travel destination.
Caterina Orlando, Head of U.S. and Mexico Territories at ENIT, guided guests on a journey through Campania, unveiling a destination where centuries of heritage meet modern innovation, timeless culture, and immersive experiences that awaken all the senses. Campania captivates through its rich history, vibrant culture, and unique offerings that promise more than travel—they promise discovery, bespoke experiences, and precious memories. These moments in time stay with you long after the journey ends.
The afternoon opened with a business-to-business (B2B) session. This created meaningful dialogue between luxury travel operators, including DiMaggio Travels, L3 Vacations, and Travelland, and key suppliers from Campania. The focus emphasized the region’s dedication to high-end hospitality, personalized services, and immersive cultural experiences.
Participating companies included HABITA79 Pompeii, Pagoda Lifestyle Hotel, Cantina del Vesuvio, Solaria Service Luxury Event, Sorrento Luxury, Cooperativa Tasso, Sorrento Private Limo, Holidaysuditalia, Nabi, My Villa Collection, Premium Charter Italia, Hotel Le Axidie, 5DiamondExperience, and Regina Isabella – Resort Spa Restaurant.
The evening then continued with an aperitivo curated by Sam Ramic, Founder of International Wine Masters and The Wine & Food Festival at Mohonk Mountain House. The selection celebrated Campania’s distinctive character, as the aromatic experience was emblematic of Campania’s rich terroir. Guests were treated to an epicurean exploration that awakened the palate, showcasing the finest wines made from indigenous grapes, from the Irpina province to the volcanic slopes surrounding Mount Vesuvius.
The selected wine list included:
Irpina (Province of Avellino)
• Feudi di San Gregorio Falanghina (100% Falanghina)
• Ciro Picariello Greco di Tufo (100% Greco di Tufo)
• Manimurci “4 Contrade” Aglianico (100% Aglianico)
Volcanic Area (around Mount Vesuvius)
• Capafresca Spumante Sparkling Rosé (100% Aglianico)
• Vesuvio Lacryma Christi DOC Red Superiore (100% Piedirosso)
The presentation then commenced with opening remarks from Giuseppe Pastorelli, Consul General of Italy in New York. He shared, “I’ve been here for about a month. The challenging part is that we want to tell you about Italy, but there are so many beautiful things about our country that sometimes it’s difficult to choose. Today we are celebrating Campania. You can see many places represented here, from Pompeii to Caserta, Positano, and the Amalfi Coast. It’s truly difficult to select just a few.” His remarks reflected the richness and diversity of Italy, with his presence exemplifying tourism as a powerful bridge for cultural diplomacy and global connection.
Elias Manneh, Marketing Chief and Partnership Officer at Ink Global, was then invited to present the region’s new promotional campaign, developed in collaboration with American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines. He highlighted innovative strategies designed to enhance Campania’s global visibility by increasing accessibility through international aviation networks using traditional print magazines and modern digital social media storytelling strategies.
The Director of Culture and Tourism at the Campania Region, Mrs. Rosanna Romano, was then invited to speak. She expressed proudly in Italian, with interpretation by Lilia Pino Blouin, “Campania is a multidimensional destination, capable of offering authentic and unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler. You can come to celebrate special moments such as weddings and exclusive events, or participate in conferences and international meetings. Campania above all means food and wine: tastings at wineries, culinary journeys, and workshops to learn how to make true Neapolitan pizza. The region also offers luxury services, such as yacht experiences, personalized tours, and high-end hospitality. Its artistic craftsmanship is extraordinary, from ceramics and coral to the historic textiles of San Leucio and the Nativity art known throughout the world. Another pillar is bespoke men’s tailoring, a symbol of elegance and uniqueness, together with historic trattorias and Michelin-starred restaurants. New itineraries highlight artisanal chocolate and inland villages, guardians of ancient traditions. On the occasion of the America’s Cup, the region is preparing to welcome visitors from all over the world, offering an extraordinary coastline, well-equipped ports, and top-level facilities. Yet what truly makes Campania unique are its people: their humanity, culture, and spirit of hospitality, a living heritage that cannot be replicated anywhere else.”
The event gathered a notable group of leaders including Ciro Adinolfi, Manager of Culture and Tourism at the Region of Campania; Stefano Pisani, Mayor of Pollica; Donato Cinelli and Vanessa Cinelli, CEO of Universal Marketing at the Fancy Food Show; Erica Di Giovancarlo, Italian Trade Agency Trade Commissioner and Executive Director of the U.S. Network; Raimondo Lucariello, Head of the Food and Wine Division; Marzia Bortolin and I Campani Nel Mondo. Their presence reflected the region’s commitment to strengthening international partnerships across tourism, gastronomy, and cultural diplomacy.
The evening concluded with a culinary experience celebrating the region’s gastronomic excellence. The Scarpetta pop-up dining experience at Hotel Seville offered an exceptional showcase of Campania’s refined yet soulful cuisine. Chef Giuseppe Di Meglio of Hotel Regina Isabella in Ischia, recognized by Travel + Leisure Italy’s Best Awards 2025, joined New York Chef Fabio Facchini to curate a decadent buffet-style Campania dinner for guests.
The menu included:
• Rice arancini Nerano style with Provolone del Monaco PDO
• Small fried frittata with potatoes and smoked Provola cheese from Agerola
• Dripping (spread) of Parmesan and eggplant
• Campania buffalo mozzarella PDO
• Campania buffalo Provola cheese PDO
• Campania cured meats IGP
• Traditional Margherita pizza
• Oven-baked pizza with sautéed friarielli (broccoli rabe), buffalo stracciatella cheese, and anchovies
• Salad of high-quality authentic octopus, potatoes, marinated onions, and Taggiasca olives
• Swordfish marinated with citrus and wild fennel
• Tortelli stuffed with traditional Genovese sauce, Provolone del Monaco PDO, and crispy Neapolitan tarallo crackers
• Sorrentina-style potato gnocchi 2.0
• Golden battered cod with Neapolitan-style chutney
• Lean meatballs stewed with toasted pine nuts and caciocavallo cheese flakes
• Traditional Neapolitan desserts
Day one of this two-day cultural experience proved to be a joyous voyage through the authentic flavors, traditions, and lifestyle of the region. As the program continues, Campania’s presence in New York reinforces its enduring ability to unite heritage, innovation, and hospitality, confidently positioning the region—historically, known as Campania Felix (fertile countryside)—within the international landscape. Woven into the rich tapestry as a jewel that shines in the cradle of civilization, Campania is well known and celebrated for its vibrant culture and enduring traditions, yet a myriad of hidden wonders still calls to be discovered.
