Some speak of religion, others of philosophy and others of a way of life. Those who profess that religion, follow that philosophy or practice that way of life know well what we are talking about. For the rest, Buddhism is identified with values such as pause or respect.
In recent days there has been a lot of talk in our city about Buddha. The project for the creation of the largest Buddhist pilgrimage centre in the world in Cáceres is something that has come as a surprise to all and sundry. Something that led many to open their eyes wide to receive the news, to wrinkle their foreheads to understand it and to smile at the moment of assimilating it. A process that has been repeated among most of our neighbours.
Gran Hotel Don Manuel had the opportunity to push the start of this project, had the privilege of going with the Cáceres delegation to Nepal to formalise the agreement and has had and has the commitment to devote resources, time and effort to a project in which we believe because it will be, without any doubt, good for the city and for those who visit it.
There is talk of opportunity and privilege, of a great project that can put Cáceres at the centre. Not in vain, having the world's largest place of pilgrimage of a philosophical and spiritual doctrine that defends values so necessary in our times and followed by more than 500 million people should not be bad news.
That the endorsement and support comes from Lumbini (the birthplace of the Buddha) and that Cáceres is heard of as the world capital of peace is not whimsical. Cáceres was recently named one of the safest and most peaceful cities in Europe with a number of violent acts approaching zero and this is tremendously important for those of us in the tourism industry. This is something that those of us who are professionally and passionately involved in hosting in our city value.
Tourism is much more than a hotel room. A visit to an art centre, a hike in the mountains, a swim in a gorge, a stroll through the streets of the city that welcomes you. In the end, the tourist always takes the pulse and the feeling of those who live in the city he or she visits. Their rhythm, their traditions, their gastronomy, their affability and their conversation. The people of Cáceres offer Cáceres and much more. They also offer something that most travellers are looking for: peace and quiet. We are proud to be able to offer our guests not only the best when they enter the Hotel but also the best when they leave. The experience of strolling through the historic centre of the city (a World Heritage Site) late at night with the only concern being to enjoy what you see, is a luxury. You won't want to miss it.
We are proud to be at the top of a ranking like this, because the city offers everything we can't reach. A special enclave, an admirable heritage, a gastronomy with stars, a surprising environment and also... a quiet and safe place like few others. Buddhists of the world: welcome. We are in Cáceres.