The Minister of Tourism and Sport of the Slovak Republic, Dušan Keketi, appreciated an exceptional personality and project that significantly contributed to the development and promotion of Slovakia in the field of tourism. It is tourism in
January 31, January 202531, 2025
Tourism | Ministry | Uncategorized | Slovakia Travel | Press releases
The Minister of Tourism and Sport of the Slovak Republic, Dušan Keketi, appreciated an exceptional personality and project that significantly contributed to the development and promotion of Slovakia in the field of tourism. It is tourism in Slovakia that generates more than a billion euros, and due to its high economic potential in terms of future revenues to the state budget, Andrej Danko and the SNS pushed for the creation of a separate ministry.
During the gala evening on the occasion of the ITF Slovakiatour international fair, the Minister awarded two prestigious awards – the Minister's Award for Tourism Personality and the Minister's Award for the best product in the field of promotion of Slovak destinations.
Minister's Award – Tourism Personality
Norbert Frank for his lifelong contribution to Slovak gastronomy.
Norbert Frank is one of the key figures in Slovak gastronomy, and with his expertise and dedication he has raised many talented young chefs and experts in the industry. His tireless work, professionalism, heart and passion have won recognition not only among colleagues, but also among the general public. Despite his age, he is still active and personally supervises his operations, where he constantly brings new ideas and innovations. Mr. Frank is not only a role model for the young generation, but also an inspiration in how to approach work with passion and responsibility. With this award, the Ministry of Tourism and Sport expresses its gratitude to him for his exceptional contribution to the development of Slovak gastronomy and tourism.
"This week I had the opportunity to visit Mr. Frank's shepherd's hut and taste genuine Slovak gastronomy. Mr. Frank is a real inspiration to many young people. His commitment, honesty and human approach have left an indelible mark on the industry. This award is a thank you for his life's work and a huge contribution to Slovak tourism," said Minister Dušan Keketi at the gala evening.
Minister's Award – Tourism Product
Faster than a train – a unique sporting event with international acclaim
In the category of tourism product, the minister's award goes to the innovative cycling event "Faster than a Train". Behind this idea is the duo Juraj Fačko and Matúš Kvas from the RBRN civic association.
This unique concept attracts cycling enthusiasts to the challenge, in which they try to get from Kráľovany to Trstená by bike faster than the iconic Oravka train. The event combines adrenaline, sports enthusiasm and the beauty of the Orava region, and every year it enjoys more and more interest not only from Slovakia, but also from abroad. This year will be the 4th year, and the event is continuously growing, professionalizing and becoming a fixed point in the calendar of sports events in Slovakia. The project presents the Orava region in an unconventional and creative way, attracting well-known cyclists and amateur riders from abroad. The event gained the attention of not only Slovak, but also Polish and other international media
"It is amazing to see how creative projects can attract visitors and make Slovakia more visible abroad. This concept connects sport, nature and tourism in a way that appeals to a wide audience. We want to support such original initiatives that have the potential to grow and bring positive results for the entire region," Minister Keketi highlighted the award-winning project.
The Ministry of Tourism and Sport thanks the awarded laureates and believes that their work will continue to inspire and contribute to the development of tourism in Slovakia.
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