Pugliapromozione, the regional tourism agency of Puglia in southern Italy, has scheduled 32 press tours and educational tours with journalists, bloggers, and international television crews from 14 foreign countries so far this year as it promotes the region to a global tourism audience.

The region, sometimes known as ‘Apulia’, forms the heel of the ‘boot’ of Italy and is best known for its medieval towns, such as Ostuni and Alberobello, the latter featuring the distinctive ‘trulli’ buildings with their conical roofs, which are a popular option for overseas property buyers looking for an authentic style of home.

Puglia’s two major airports, Bari and Brindisi, are reached via a wide range of direct low-cost flights from across Europe, including EasyJet and Ryanair from the UK.

The tourist organisation has invited media from nations as diverse as Belgium, Canada, Korea and Qatar to the region over the first months of this year in a bid to increase coverage of its food, scenery and culture – positive news for those relying on tourist income from their second homes there.