Intellectual tourism opens up new horizons. This year, French Bordeaux and Spanish Valencia have become the “smart tourism capitals” in the European Union. How are things in Greece?
Intellectual tourism includes many components: cultural heritage, creativity, digitalization and inclusiveness.
At a congress recently held in Valencia, representatives of the tourism industry discussed issues related to innovative technologies, as well as climate change, which are increasingly affecting the hospitality industry. Joan-Carles Cambrils, Deputy Director of Visit Valencia explains:
“The modern tourist is no stranger to the media and news of global importance related to sustainability. Such a tourist carries a cell phone with him, which contains a wealth of information. In this way, the traveler can access many services.”
Bordeaux sustainable tourism manager Julie Benitsi-Oviedo adds:
“Being a so-called smart destination means developing tourism together with local residents. If a particular area is to the liking of permanent residents, it will also be attractive for visitors, for guests.”
In the upcoming 2023 season, Paphos in Cyprus and Spanish Seville will be the smart travel destinations.
Today, travelers are looking for real experiences and eco-friendly vacations. With this in mind, GNTO, the Greek National Tourism Organization, a government body under the Hellenic Ministry of Culture and Tourism, is working on a new model – “ethnic and smart tourism”. Particular attention is paid to the return to quality, the satisfaction of all stakeholders. The new direction of tourism implies respect for the ecology and culture of local communities.
World Tourism Day is celebrated annually in September, and this year’s theme is “Rethinking Tourism”. The time has come for Greece to move from sustainable development to a more regenerative and meaningful tourism model designed to increase the sustainability of the destination and the vitality of local communities. Dimitris Fragakis, Secretary General of the GNTO, referring to the country’s unprecedented recovery this year, stated the goal to implement sustainable practices and operations and return to the authentic experience, quoted ilovegreece portal:
“From now on, in a completely different international environment, Greek tourism must overcome its shortcomings, be innovative and effective in solving new and existing problems. It is more important than ever to move towards sustainable development, move forward and advance with the digitization of services, invest in the authenticity of the tourism experience and focus on education and skills.”
Reference. Smart tourism is the most striking example of the modern service sector. It improves the competitiveness of high-tech in the tourism industry, improves the cost-effectiveness of tourism product ancillary services, optimizes the professional structure of tourism, and improves the travel experience.
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