The Social Security Bank (B.P.S.) and the Municipality of Montevideo signed an agreement to launch a social tourism program which will allow retirees and pensioners to access free guided tours of different parts of the capital.
The initiative will be open to all passives, although it will have special quotas for beneficiaries of the BPS housing solutions program and for members of the National Organization of Retirees and Pensioners of Uruguay (Onajpu).
Eleven routes between March and December
The president of the BPS, Jimena Pardoreported that the program provides for the formation of groups of up to 40 people to participate in 11 walking toursbetween one and two kilometers long, in different areas of Montevideo.
The activities will be developed between March and December and those interested can register through the BPS Social Tourism program.
Pardo pointed out that the objective is extend the experience to other departments of the country through agreements with the different municipalities.
Promote physical activity and socialization
The leader highlighted that the proposal seeks to facilitate older adults’ access to the city’s cultural heritage, in addition to promote physical activity and social integration.
“This helps not only rediscover the city, but also bonds and mental health,” he said.
The agreement was signed together with the mayor of Montevideo, Mario Bergarawho maintained that tourism must be understood as a right and a tool to bring the population closer to rest, culture and public spaces.
According to Bergara, the experiences promoted by the State show a good response from the beneficiaries and contribute to expand participation opportunities for different sectors of the population.
