The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has kicked off a global campaign to select seven contemporary wonders of the world, focusing on landmarks constructed after 1801 that have reshaped travel and tourism. The initiative, announced on July 7, 2026, invites the public to nominate and vote for sites that combine architectural and cultural significance with measurable economic impact on destinations.
Over the course of a year, the campaign will culminate in the unveiling of the seven wonders on July 7, 2027. The WTTC aims to spotlight attractions that have driven tourism infrastructure investment, job creation, and local business growth. Notable examples cited include the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, and the Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza — each of which has elevated its destination's global profile.
Economic and Community Impact at the Forefront
Gloria Guevara, President and CEO of the WTTC, emphasized the broader role of such landmarks. “The most influential tourism assets do far more than attract visitors. They create jobs, stimulate investment, support local businesses, strengthen communities and enhance the global profile of destinations,” she said.
The campaign will evaluate nominees based on tourism contribution, economic impact, and community value. It will recognize both globally celebrated icons and emerging landmarks, aiming to inspire new investments in tourism infrastructure. The WTTC hopes to spread economic benefits across regions and communities by showcasing these sites.
Public nominations are now open, with the first round of nominees scheduled for announcement in January 2027. The initiative aligns with broader industry trends where destinations leverage cultural assets to drive sustainable growth. For example, the West Kowloon Cultural District in Hong Kong has similarly used cultural infrastructure to attract investment and tourism.
Travel professionals — from airline executives to hoteliers and tour operators — are encouraged to participate in the nomination process. The campaign underscores the importance of strategic investment in tourism assets as a catalyst for economic regeneration, a theme echoed in recent developments such as the MakeMyTrip OneCircle loyalty program, which aims to boost repeat travel in India.
As the travel industry continues to recover and evolve, the WTTC’s initiative serves as a reminder of the power of iconic landmarks to drive visitation and economic activity. The seven contemporary wonders will join a legacy of travel-inspiring sites, reinforcing the sector’s role in global economic development.
