Tourism services for visitors and residents alike – Page 2 – fuTOURiSME

Bridging Visitor Experience and Resident Well-being in Greece

Écrit par Anastasia Sakkoula le août 28, 2024.

The need for a new approach to tourism that extends the tourist season and caters to both visitors and residents was identified as a major gap. For destinations to maintain the elements that support their sustainability (local character – culture, sense of community thanks to residents, economic diversification – activity outside of tourism), tourism practices must adapt. The need for tourism services that incorporate sustainability and digitalisation was highlighted as a challenge. The lessons learnt underscore the importance of inclusivity and sustainability in tourism services.

Many Greek initiatives highlight the importance of sustainable development, cultural heritage promotion, and the provision of quality services for both tourists and residents.

The Fish&Chips project promotes the archaeological and cultural heritage of Taranto in Puglia and the island of Corfu in Greece. It aims to diversify the economic activities of fishing communities and adjust seasonally. An Ecomuseum was foreseen to be established in Taranto and Corfu, offering exhibitions, workshops, tasting labs, and new itineraries guided by archaeologists and fishers. A Map of Cultural Heritage was also created, collecting tangible and intangible maritime elements of the project area.
The BEST MED project contributes to enhancing MED Governance, addressing the challenges of seasonality and lack of effective cooperation among main tourism actors. It supports evidence-based planning, monitoring, and evaluation of interventions in the MED programme. The project aimed to create a new integrated and sustainable touristic planning to mitigate seasonality in the MED area, connecting coastal regions to inland regions. It also proposed to analyse the positive and negative impacts of tourism on the quality of life of tourists, residents, and the quality of the tourist’s experience.

Lessons Learned:

Accessible Destinations for Tourists and residents alike: Creating accessible infrastructures and promoting accessible tourist destinations through publicity material, an accessible website, and information workshops can support the development of more inclusive and green localities, that provide quality of life both to residents and to tourists.

regenerative farming, permaculture and sustainable hospitality in Eumelia

Écrit par Anastasia Sakkoula le août 28, 2024.

By integrating the local agricultural production and by showcasing the cultural practices that surround the former, “Eumelia” of Homeodynamic Development is preserving local natural and cultural resources that characterize its offering. Abiding by the principles of biodynamic farming & permaculture for its agricultural production, and of 3R (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) for the operation of the accommodation facilities, “Eumelia” has limited its negative impact on the surrounding area. The use of eco-friendly materials, application of RES (geothermal and solar heating), and greywater reuse add to its resilience, by also lowering long-term costs and mitigating risks related to variable costs and seasonality.

Since 2009, Eumelia has been a pioneer in regenerative farming, permaculture and sustainable hospitality. The initial setup of needed infrastructure in owned land included owner living areas, and olive grove and vineyard irrigation and care. Landscape features were added gradually (e.g. a water pond) thus enriching agro-activities for the visitors. Accommodation facilities were built and outfitted with eco-friendly technology solutions. Marcom strategy engaged an international audience, with the creation of quality collateral and numerous Press Publications. Monitoring and feedback of the activities ensures the continuous enhancement of the visitor experience while staying true to the values of ecodynamics and sustainability.

Challenges for similar units relate to the presence of appropriate networks or grids and supportive services in the surrounding area. The initial investment for such is higher than a “traditional” unit of a farmstay with available accommodation of comparable capacity. Its design approach permits to Homeodynamic Development to access funding for SMEs related to greening and sustainable tourism. Access to markets and visitor acquisition for an alternative form of tourism is a main point to be addressed, though agrotourism has gained significant traction in the past decade. A targeted advertising and communication strategy has resulted to significant publicity for “Eumelia”.

Emelia’s approach as an agrotourism unit is highly replicable and transferable, with application to various geographies (mountainous regions, plains, coastal areas, arid environments, forested areas). By relying on the proximity to the location of production of food ingredients and raw materials, provision of accommodation, and inclusion of visitors to the process of farm work, agricultural production, animal care and environmental preservation, each agrotouristic unit can provide its own unique offer. Pre-existing 1st sector SMEs/ producers can transit to the 3rd sector or cooperate with newly established enterprises to add value to their offer while increasing the productivity of their own resources.

Mastros Traditional Products

Écrit par Marios Demosthenous le août 22, 2024.

Mastros Agrotourism Facility and Traditional Products is dedicated to preserving the traditional architecture, produce, and agricultural heritage of rural Cyprus. This family-run business warmly welcomes guests and visitors to experience rural life through its inviting spaces, including a processing unit and guided farm tours. Their award-winning olive oil, carob, wine, beer, and fruit liqueur are crafted with passion and expertise by the owner. Located in Amargeti, in the Paphos region, Mastros Agrotourism is a must-visit destination.

Ecophysis Bee and Nature Centre

Écrit par Marios Demosthenous le août 21, 2024.

Our aim is to combine fun with education, learning about the life of bees; their products; their contribution to ecosystem health and the threats they face whilst having the opportunity to experience how it is to be a beekeeper without the physical presence of bees. The participants wear the whole-body beekeeper’s protective suit for unique commemorative photos, and they learn about the beekeeper’s work during every season of the year and the tools used. They prepare foundations for honeycombs, repair, adorn and paint old wooden beehives, make natural cosmetic oils/soaps or multi-purpose food wrappers using beeswax and resin.

Adapting tourism for resilience: lessons learned for sustainable and inclusive practices

Écrit par Sonia Merlo le août 6, 2024.

The COVID-19 pandemic presented a significant challenge to the French tourism SMEs, compelling them to adapt their business models to align with shifting consumer preferences and behaviors. The closure of borders and restrictions on international travel necessitated a pivot towards domestic markets. This shift required SMEs to explore alternative revenue streams and re-evaluate their marketing strategies and product offerings to meet the evolving needs of local customers.

Insights and lessons from EU-funded projects like TOURISME, SusTour, Ecotours, and DIGITOUR provide valuable guidance for adapting tourism services to benefit both visitors and residents. These projects underscore several key approaches:

Community-centric approach: all the projects highlighted the importance of developing tourism services that prioritize the needs and interests of both visitors and local residents. Engaging residents in tourism planning and development ensures that services are culturally sensitive, benefit local economies, and enhance community well-being.
Sustainable practices: the Ecotours project emphasized integrating sustainable practices into tourism services. By promoting eco-friendly initiatives such as resource conservation, waste reduction, and supporting local producers, tourism services can minimize environmental impact and contribute to sustainable development.
Inclusive tourism: the SusTour project stressed the importance of inclusive tourism practices that cater to diverse visitor profiles, including families, individuals, and people with different religious, spiritual, or sexual orientations. Tourism services should be accessible and welcoming to all segments of society.
Digital innovation: the DIGITOUR project showcased the role of digital innovation in enhancing tourism services. Leveraging digital tools can improve visitor experiences, facilitate bookings, and provide information about local attractions, thereby promoting tourism services that benefit both visitors and residents.
Cultural preservation: the TOURISME project underscored the significance of preserving local culture and heritage in tourism services. Promoting authentic cultural experiences fosters pride among residents, attracts visitors seeking unique experiences, and contributes to the sustainability of tourism destinations.

These projects collectively emphasize the importance of diversifying and developing tourism offerings to benefit local communities while attracting and satisfying visitors. Promoting sustainable tourism practices, such as sourcing locally, conserving resources, and reducing environmental impacts, demonstrates the potential for tourism to positively contribute to local economies and the quality of life for residents.

Moreover, initiatives that engage residents in tourism activities—such as cultural events, workshops, and community-based tours—foster a sense of pride and ownership among locals while providing authentic experiences for visitors. Digital transformation plays a crucial role in enhancing accessibility and promoting inclusive tourism services that cater to diverse customer preferences and needs, including families, individuals, and people with specific orientations or interests.

These projects highlight the importance of collaboration, stakeholder engagement, and policy support in ensuring that tourism services are inclusive, sustainable, and mutually beneficial for visitors and residents alike. This approach aligns closely with the objectives of Topic 26 of the Transition Pathway in promoting tourism that benefits both tourists and local communities.

CARE

Écrit par Marianna Gallina le juillet 31, 2024.

Personalization of the tourism experience increases customer satisfaction and encourages visitor return.

Tourism services should be inclusive and respectful of the diversity of visitors and residents, including religious, spiritual or sexual orientations. This involves creating a welcoming environment that is open to all, where every individual feels respected and represented.

A previous project carried out in the area of tourism services for visitors and residents was CARE (CArpet bowls foR Everyone), an initiative implemented under the Erasmus+ program. This project aimed to promote a healthier lifestyle through sports, particularly the game of carpet bowls, and to involve all participants, putting them on an equal footing and breaking down language, gender, cultural, religious, and disability-related barriers.

This enabled the involvement of a wide variety of participants, promoting social inclusion and creating a welcoming and inclusive environment.

The project fostered integration between people of different cultures and languages, providing an opportunity to meet and interact through sports.

The CARE project involved partners from different European countries, enabling the exchange of experience, knowledge and best practices.

Bianko ecochic – ospitalità siciliana

Écrit par Marianna Gallina le juillet 30, 2024.

A green structure was created from a restored 1800s building. This includes restoration of the original furniture and recovery of the cement tiles, integrated with the use of green building mortars.

20kw of solar panels and water collection tanks (about 6000l) were installed.

The fixtures used are wooden and maintain the original design and colors but are all thermal break for energy efficiency.

The project was born in 2019 carried on since then at its own expense.

It has received some external aid over time, including the 110 superbonus and the earthquakebonus.

Officina Agroculturale Cafeci – Outdoor experience

Écrit par Marianna Gallina le juillet 30, 2024.

The company’s best practice is to offer unique and sustainable travel experiences in Sicily, promoting a more environmentally friendly lifestyle and bringing people closer to nature in an authentic and meaningful way. They organize guided hikes and e-bike tours, allowing participants to explore the natural beauty of the island in an eco-sustainable way.

They also offer outdoor workshop activities that allow participants to immerse themselves in local culture and traditions, encouraging a more conscious approach to outdoor living and responsible consumption. They actively promote cyclotourism and beekeeping, encouraging travelers to discover Sicily in innovative and environmentally friendly ways.

A distinctive aspect of their practice is the involvement of the younger generation. They offer educational programs dedicated to children, designed to teach them the importance of environmental conservation and the beauty of nature. They want them to grow up loving and respecting the natural environment, conveying to them a deep connection with the earth and encouraging them to become active keepers of our planet.

Spaccio BIO – Bottega con Cucina

Écrit par Marianna Gallina le juillet 30, 2024.

The mission is to promote healthy food by selecting wholesome products and supporting workers and the land, demonstrating a genuine commitment to an ethical economy. This holistic approach not only provides quality goods, but also inspires cultural change toward sustainable and inclusive economic models, demonstrating that it is possible to do business responsibly and in a way that respects the environment and people. Also organizing several workshops and activities for children, parallel activities that aim to educate awareness because only if you know you can choose conscientiously thus increasing consumer awareness.

Mercurio Festival

Écrit par Marianna Gallina le juillet 30, 2024.

The Mercurio Festival positions itself as a cultural tourism attractor without limiting itself to the creation of cultural events in places of artistic heritage, a proposal already outdated by the most innovative cultural tourism operators, but setting its sights on a conscious tourism that moves its flows functionally to the artistic proposal of level regardless of the places that host it, where the experiences of recent years lead us to consider it increasingly mortifying for the artist and his paths to have to express themselves in function of the enhancement of a place.

The conscious cultural tourism they focus on involves organizing public meetings, seminars, and workshops so that they can engage with the themes of the work, creation, and inspiration of the work we have just seen. They create meeting places where tourists know they can engage with artists and be able to freely dialogue with them. They also create itineraries, co-organized with the entities that operate within the Cantieri Culturali, in which tourists can visit the entire area, watch a show/concert at the Cantieri and entertain themselves there, expanding our itinerary to the Zisa Castle, adjacent to our target area.

Topic : Tourism services for visitors and residents alike