“Mediterranean Calling”: Calabria, Sardinia and Sicily take centre stage on the Thames

On 27 July 2026, ENIT hosted “Mediterranean Calling – Calabria, Sardinia and Sicily: Southern Italy on the Thames” in London, a networking event designed to promote Calabria, Sardinia and Sicily within the UK tourism market.

Held aboard the Driftwood, departing from Tower Bridge Quay, the event welcomed around 100 guests, including institutional representatives, journalists, tour operators, tourism professionals and key stakeholders. The evening provided an opportunity for industry professionals to connect while showcasing the cultural, natural, culinary and wine heritage of the three regions.

Guests included H.E. Fabio Cassese, Ambassador of Italy to the United Kingdom; Augusto Sartori, Member of the ENIT Board of Directors; Flavio Zappacosta, Head of ENIT UK and Ireland; and Francesco Bongarrà, Director of the Italian Cultural Institute in London.

Calabria presented itself to the British audience as a destination waiting to be rediscovered through its coastlines, national parks, villages, inland areas and traditions.

Sardinia showcased a tourism offering that extends beyond its renowned coastline to include protected natural areas, inland landscapes, Nuragic heritage, walking trails, traditional crafts, food and wine, and outdoor activities.

Sicily highlighted the diversity of its tourism offering, encompassing archaeological sites, historic and cultural cities, coastal destinations, villages, smaller islands, natural landscapes and local food and wine products.

The story of the three destinations continued through a menu inspired by Mediterranean flavours, featuring regional specialities accompanied by a selection of wines from Calabria, Sicily and Sardinia. Guests also received a gift bag containing promotional materials and products representing the three regions, including Calabrian ’nduja, Sicilian olives or capers, and Sardinian fregola.

The event strengthened engagement with one of Italy’s leading international tourism markets. In 2025, more than 7 million British travellers visited Italy, an increase of 4.2% compared with the previous year. Overnight stays reached 34.9 million, while visitor spending exceeded €5.3 billion, rising by 7.6%.

“Mediterranean Calling” formed part of the strategy promoted by the Italian Government, the Ministry of Tourism and ENIT to support the recovery of the tourism image of Calabria, Sardinia and Sicily following Cyclone Harry. Through networking activities, promotional materials, digital content, and photography and video coverage, the initiative strengthened relationships with the UK travel trade and media while reinforcing Italy’s positioning as a leading tourism destination in the British market.