"The Landscape We Choose" – A Film That Fills Us with Pride
The promotional film “The Landscape We Choose” has been a remarkable success since its release in June 2023, marking the 10th anniversary of Rota Vicentina.
After winning six awards in various film festivals throughout 2024—including in Japan, the United States, Spain, France, Greece, and Portugal—it has now secured 3rd place at the prestigious World’s Best Tourism Film competition, organized by the International Committee of Tourism Film Festivals (CIFFT).
The award was grantes in the Tourism Products category in December 2024.
Highly praised by the jurors that awarded it, the video represents the culmination of a growing trilogy about the carcater and identity of Southwest Alentejo and Costa Vicentina. It shines a spotlight on those who shape, care for and live in the landscape, while also highlighting its connection to tourism and the crucial role of visitors.
In line with this success, “The Landscape We Choose” will, starting in April, be part of the selection of Portuguese films shown on board TAP Air Portugal’s long-haul flights. Passengers traveling to and from the Americas (Brazil, the United States, Canada, and Venezuela) and Africa (Luanda, Maputo, and São Tomé) will have the chance to discover Southwest Portugal through the voices of the people who live there.
An Unconventional Film
At seven minutes long, “The Landscape We Choose” is far from a typical promotional video. Instead, it raises awareness about the role of tourism in the region, built on the principle of shared responsibility—between those who own land and those who visit it—establishing a direct link between individual choices and their impact on the landscape.
These characteristics were highly praised by the World Tourism Film Awards jury, which highlighted the “simplicity, honesty, and authenticity” of the film. They emphasized that it “works to promote Identity Tourism—an approach that fosters an emotional experience for visitors, rooted in local products and the cultural heritage of the territory and community, rather than in exclusive attractions.”
Described by the jury as a “well-rounded film”, it captivated both national and international audiences for the “dynamic conversations” about creating a cooperative and unifying efforts to showcase the region’s richness through tourism. As the film states, “Agriculture is tourism.”
Watch or rewatch the film here:
Awards and Recognitions
Throughout 2024, the film won multiple awards at international festivals:
World’s Best Tourism Film – 3rd Place
Cannes Corporate Media & TV Awards – Silver
Japan World Tourism Film Festival – Gold in Tourism Products
Terres – International Eco & Travel Film Festival – Gold Award
Amorgos Tourism Film Festival – 1st Prize (Tourism Products)
Art&Tur – 2nd Prize (Tourism Products)
US International Awards – Finalist
What the Jury Had to Say
“I am truly impressed by this film, which does a fantastic job of unveiling and discussing the intersection between tourism and agriculture while also highlighting the key aspects of the region. A very timely and well-executed piece.”
L. H., UNITED KINGDOM
“An excellent film. The synergy between agriculture, fishing, gastronomy, and culture offers a complete vision of a tourist destination.”
— P., POLAND
“A powerful message about the value of local authenticity, responsible tourism, and food as a key element of the tourism experience. It effectively shows how travelers can choose such experiences and take these values home as lasting memories. A well-structured and beautifully filmed video—memorable and engaging.”
— L., BELGIUM
“A very high-quality video on an interesting topic. I also appreciated that it used its native language and the choice of music.”
— E. M., LITHUANIA
Margarida is half-Porto native, half-Alfacinha. She’s from Porto, but lived for many years in Lisbon. She comes from the world of journalism, where she began her career, then moved into institutional communications and press relations. A lover of words, cats, and movies, she’s discovered the Alentejo as a destination full of revelations.
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