Flood-hit Valencia launches travel vouchers as part of a broader €48 million recovery plan to support residents, local businesses, and the tourism sector following the devastating DANA storm that struck on October 29. The initiative, unveiled by President of the Valencian Government Carlos Mazón, includes direct financial aid, tourism incentives, and infrastructure restoration funding.
Valencia’s €48M Recovery Strategy: Tourism, Vehicles, and Infrastructure
Recuperem Turisme: A New Path to Healing
Central to the plan is the launch of the “Recuperem Turisme” voucher, a €350 travel credit offered to those affected by the floods. The aim is to encourage emotional recovery, rest, and local exploration. Recipients can use the vouchers to access tourist services within the Valencian Community.
With an initial budget of €5.1 million, these vouchers can be requested starting May 12 and redeemed from May 26 through the end of 2025. The initiative not only helps affected citizens enjoy a much-needed break, but also stimulates the region’s tourism economy during the recovery period.
What the Voucher Covers
- Hotel and lodging expenses
- Guided tours and activities
- Entrance to cultural and recreational sites
- Local transportation within the community
This effort aims to reconnect locals with the beauty and diversity of their home region while supporting tourism operators and service providers.
Expanded Vehicle Compensation and Legal Entity Support
In addition to the tourism vouchers, a new €35.8 million decree expands aid for lost vehicles. Originally, support was limited to individuals and only ten types of vehicles. The updated plan broadens eligibility to include legal entities and a wider range of vehicles such as:
| Eligible Vehicle Types | Now Covered? |
|---|---|
| Private Cars | Yes |
| Trucks | Yes |
| Buses | Yes |
| Tractors | Yes |
| Industrial Machinery | Yes |
A separate decree will also allow individuals who missed the first application period to reapply for aid. This move ensures broader access and addresses gaps in the initial emergency response.
Rebuilding Tourism Infrastructure in Nine Municipalities
Another €7.1 million has been designated for restoring tourism infrastructure in nine municipalities severely affected by the hurricane. These funds will be used to repair damaged tourist resources and implement new climate risk mitigation and prevention systems.
While specific municipalities have not yet been disclosed, the funding will prioritize areas with both high flood damage and strong tourism potential. Projects may include the rebuilding of walkways, beach infrastructure, public squares, and information centers.
Targeted Goals for Infrastructure Aid
- Reconstruction of damaged tourist sites
- Implementation of climate risk prevention systems
- Support for local cultural and environmental assets
One of the Largest Recovery Efforts in Valencian History
According to Carlos Mazón, this recovery plan represents one of the most significant financial and managerial efforts in the history of the Generalitat Valenciana. He emphasized that the government remains committed to ensuring the region not only rebuilds but thrives.
“No desire to construct a narrative purely for political calculation, no partisan interests, or any partial intoxication will separate us from that work and that commitment, which remains more alive than ever,” Mazón declared at the official presentation of the aid package, which was attended by members of the business community and other government officials.
With more than €48 million already committed and more expected depending on demand, the Recuperem València plan shows a strong push toward inclusive recovery, long-term resilience, and revitalization of one of Spain’s most visited coastal regions.
