المدونة والأخبار

نوفمبر 30, 2022

The Role of Women in Tourism

BY

Jussara Pellicano Botelho – CEO at Sisterwave

Introduction

This article is based on market and academic research, and also on my own experience as an entrepreneur, designer, and woman traveler. Is a reflection of how it feels like to be a “global woman”. How it was in the past, the advances of the present, and the prospects for the future to achieve gender equity.

Role of women in the workforce

According to the World Economic Forum at the Global Gender Gap Report published in 2022, the global gender gap will finally be closed an incredible 132 years from now.

This report highlights the continued gender gap in different areas of society: economic participation and opportunity, education, health, and political empowerment. Regarding education and health participation, the path to gender parity seems to come much faster than political empowerment and economic participation and opportunity.

Clearly, we’re only making small steps – if any steps forward at all. As a society, we need to achieve strategic goals for the acceleration of this process. Furthermore, we need to focus on the forces that break and stop those advances. The first step is to identify and name them.

One of the critical points for this problem is the accepted nature of the female ‘unpaid workforce’, as home care, and carers of their relatives. According to research done by UN Women “Women carry out at least two and a half times more unpaid household and care work than men ”. With this and with the workforce situation, women have less time and less wages (often for doing the same work), which means fewer resources to live and thrive in their lives. But what does this have to do with the role of women in tourism?

Rise and growth of tourism

To put it in a historical context, since the beginning of time, the human being has behaved as a nomadic being. Although nomadism has accompanied much of human history, the economic sector of tourism is relatively recent. Before that, travel was associated with migration, survival, commerce, and pilgrimages, usually for selective groups.

The popularization of the tourism industry and travel for pleasure was made at the beginning of the 19th century. This was sustained by the advance of industrialization, a direct consequence of the industrial revolution in means of transport, with the advent of railroads and the steam engine. The rise of tourism as an economic sector and the growth of travel strengthened the transformation made by contact with new cultures, languages, landscapes, and realities, further speeding up the process of globalization. Allowing new forms of connection between cultures, expanding the worldview of travelers and residents who receive it through the exchange of information and experiences about their repertoires, and breaking paradigms and prejudices rooted in ourselves about certain cultures. For all these reasons, tourism (if managed responsibly) can be a great tool to bring world peace and accelerate the positive impact on society and can be a great ally in achieving gender equity.

Women’s rights and gender equity in traveling

Historically the female gender is associated with the domestic environment and the male with the public environment. Breaking those stereotypes is hard work. A review of the cultural behavior and laws can be strong allies for those changes.

Despite the slowness of progress, less than one century ago, women did not have the right to vote, be a candidate as a politician, have their own bank account, or manage their own money. In terms of tourism, in most countries, women did not have the right to travel alone, at least not without authorization from a man. Even nowadays, this right is not guaranteed in some countries. And everywhere those rights are constantly under threat. In order to deal with all of this, it is important to have female leaders and diversity in all spheres of power.

Women achieved a lot of rights and guarantees compared to a few years ago. We have a lot of women traveling, and women make up a majority of some parts of the broad tourism sector. However, we still have countries that are more challenging to go to for a woman traveler, especially solo, but this behavior of solo female travel is growing all over the world. That’s why, throughout history, women who wanted to travel alone, used artifices and tricks to reverse established laws and social rules.

The female gender erasure and the story of solo female travelers

Female gender erasure is still seen in a lot of sectors of living and business. But what is this? How does it impact our perception of professions and roles of power? What’s the importance of highlighting women from history and from the present?

Female gender erasure occurs when important acts, knowledge, arts, and works made by women in our society are not referenced and are left out of the media and our history books.

In some cases, men receive recognition and credit instead of more deserving women. This reinforces age-old stereotypes.

Also when some cultures, do not welcome and/or allow the presence of women in certain sectors and positions, to get around this, women may use anonymous or pseudonymous to express themselves and their thoughts.

For example, Ada Lovelace was the most important person in the creation of computer algorithms. However, for a long time, she wasn’t celebrated; Mileva and Albert Einstein were responsible for the development of the Theory of Relativity. According to some scholars, she was responsible for the most complex calculations of this theory. And for that theory, he won the Nobel Prize, though he split the money equally with her. But just two decades later her name was almost erased from history, and only brought back by students of feminism. Those are just two examples of women who had their names almost erased from history.

In the area of tourism, too, we have a lot of important, brave, and inspiring women that traveled centuries ago but do not get credit for their achievements. They discovered the world by traveling alone, always with their own ways of getting around rules and social conventions that avoid women to travel by themselves. Here are some of the most inspiring examples:

Egeria was probably from Galicia, Spain. She traveled from Spain to Jerusalem in the 4th century, over 5,000 kilometers. “She travels so many kilometers (on horseback, on a camel, on a donkey and exhausting days on foot,” noted Tania Alonso Cascallana. This is considered the first Spanish first-person travel narration written by a woman. There is a book about her called “Viaje de Egeria: el primer relato de una viajera hispana” (Egeria’s trip: the first story of a Hispanic traveler).

Another emblematic woman traveler is Jeanne Baret, she was the first woman to circumnavigate the world, from 1766 to 1769. She was a french botanic woman and had to dress up as a man to be able to travel in the mid-18th century. She also changed her name to Jean Baret in order to sail the world.

Then there’s Freya Stark. Born in 1893, she was English-Italian and born in France, or rather, she was a citizen of the world. When she was 9 years old, she received a book from her father, a gift that would open the doors of her interest in the Arab world. The book was “One Thousand and One Nights”. She was self-taught, learning Latin, Persian, and Arabic on her own. Her first trip to the East was at the age of 34 and this tireless traveler demystified and went to unexplored places. She was the first woman in Europe (according to reports) to go alone to many remote places mainly in the Middle East. In addition to being a great trailblazer, she recorded her journeys as literature was one of her passions. There were more than 25 books that were inspired by her travels and experiences, with unique, humorous stories that show the female perspective in the Middle East.

In May 1846, Ida Pfeiffer from Austria boards a sailboat from Europe. And so begins her first trip around the world, pretending to go to Jerusalem as a pilgrim. She arrives in Rio de Janeiro, passes through stormy waters around Cabo de Los Hornos in the extreme south of South America, goes to Valparaíso in Chile, crosses the Pacific, and stops in Tahiti. In China, he goes to Macau, then to Hong Kong and Guangzhou. Passing through Singapore, proceeded to Sri Lanka, went on to southern India, Calcutta, Benares and Bombay continued on to Mesopotamia and Persia, visited Baghdad, followed caravans through the desert, saw the ruins of Babylon and Nineveh, went to Iran, in Tabriz. Finally, she passed through Armenia, Georgia, Odessa, Constantinople, and Athens and returned home.

After her first trip, Ida gained fame and admirers, which opened doors for her to continue her travels. The record of this voyage, Eine Frauenfahrt um die Welt (A Woman’s Voyage Around the World), was published in Vienna in 1850 in three volumes. The English translation, A Woman’s Journey around the World, was published in London in 1850.

Another inspiring woman faced the intersectionality of gender and racial prejudice to fulfill her dream of traveling the world by flying. Bessie Coleman, with great courage and determination, in 1921, became the first female pilot in history. Bessie was born in Atlanta, Texas, and was the tenth of thirteen siblings. Aged 23, she moved to Chicago and worked as a manicurist at a barber shop – which served many Air Force pilots. These conversations about flights and battles delighted Bessie who went after a dream: to fly. But this mission would not be easy. Prejudice even tried to stop Bessie, however, she was trying other paths, until she found an ally: Robert Abbott, founder of the Chicago Defender. He suggested that Bessie leave the United States and try to go to France. The young woman had no doubts, invested in a French course, and set off towards the right destination: the conquest of the skies. In 1921, she received her international license to fly. The following year, Bessie returned to the United States and became a stunt pilot.

There are still plenty of women in history and nowadays that do bold and brave adventures around the world but they don’t have the attention they should have.

The role of women in Tourism

The majority of the workforce in tourism is made up of women. Data from UNWTO say that it represents 54% of the total number of employers in that sector. Unfortunately, the representation of leader and C-level functions is much lower. The World Economic Forum confirms this as they have found that 10% of CEOs are women, and women make up only 15% of senior management. A study conducted by McKinsey in partnership with LeanIn.Org called ‘The women in the workspace 2021’ analyzed the representation of women in corporate America and stresses about the importance of diversity in the business, and how it affects positively the corporation’s numbers. This same report shows how different point of view and personal repertories creates a more creative environment and one that is more resilient to deal with this accelerated and chaotic world full of changes. This study also presents the difference between gender and other types of identities: including women of color, LGBTQ+ women, and women with disabilities.

Tourism as an economic sector can be an opportunity for achieving gender equity. The disparity is lower compared to other sectors.

Why Sisterwave?

The story about Sisterwave starts with me as a woman being with my sisters, and the first obstacles of gender that can be felt at an early age. I believe that everything starts with gender construction in childhood. What it means are “things of women” and “things of men”.

The limitation imposed on things that I as a female should or shouldn’t do. Unfortunately, for both genders, we learned those stereotypes. And those paradigms are maintained rooted in ourselves and just repeated until we start to reflect on them. “Why not?” or “Why should I?”.

The years passed, and we got used to those rules, and just followed them without much reflection on them. The world is like that and we didn’t have so much to do. Little by little, we are getting comfortable with the comfort zone that has been imposed on us, even if it is not so comfortable.

The big turning point in my life was when I decided to go to Bhutan and Thailand with a female friend. My journey in tourism starts as a traveler, and then as a solo traveler. At that moment (2015) social media and connections weren’t as strong as they are nowadays and didn’t have personal connections with other women that were doing solo trips and for my context of family, friends, and colleagues, it was seen as an adventure, dangerous and peculiar decision. Causing a mix of admiration and estrangement for the people that I talked with. I heard a lot of similar reactions such as “But is it not dangerous for a woman like you?”, “But you should not go, because you don’t have a man to take care of you”, “Women are more vulnerable than men…”, “Are you not afraid of these or that?”, “My dream! You are crazy! What courage!”. So we picked up those ‘encouraging’ advice, with our own fears and we put that on our ‘baggage’, and we went through that.

Researching online and traveling I met a lot of women with similar interests on solo trips, and at that moment I saw that it was possible to make it. And with those references, I saw that I was not alone in that and I started to recognize my “own family” around the world. Thanks to that the importance of having representation is that with it, you can expand the field of possibilities.

On the other hand, if those names and people are erased and not shown, one person that is from a determined social context (about gender, race, age, religion, persons with deficiency…) doesn’t see their similars occupying some power spaces (politics, executive, academic) or experiences spaces (take a solo trip, adventure, professionals roles, sports, etc), that person can not see as a possibility and as an aspiration. So representativity is a way to present and inspire that you also can do something similar.

And with Sisterwave I want that no women do not travel because of fear. So I believe with the power of technology and the power of the community we can empower millions of women worldwide through travel.

Starting a tourism business and the role of women in Tourism

With my professional experience as CEO of Sisterwave, as a female entrepreneur, and with a focus on gender equity in a turistech startup, I see that we have a long path to pass through to achieve true gender equity in travel and in the world. For contextualizing, Sisterwave solves the problem of fear of traveling alone and judgment that makes women feel more uncomfortable and vulnerable to travel by themselves. We made that with a platform that connects female travelers and locals, where they can search/offer services related to travel, share their experiences, and can connect with other sisters in the community.

I believe that everything starts with gender construction in childhood. What it means are “things of women” and “things of men”. Unfortunately, for both genders, we learned those stereotypes the things that we should do, and things that we should not. And those paradigms are maintained rooted in ourselves and just repeated until we start to reflect on them. “Why not?” or “Why should I?”

As a traveler, the paradigm that repeats is that you should be in the company of men to be safe. A sad and emblematic case occurred in 2016, two Argentinian girls were rapped and killed, in the city of Montañita, Ecuador. And the press repeated a lot of times “two solo travelers”, but they weren’t alone. They were with each other. The protest was focused on, if a group is without men, they aren’t safe, they are “alone”.

During my journey as CEO and founder of a turistech startup focusing on gender equity on travels, I do believe that it is imperative to make a reflection on the gaps that occur nowadays, and what we can do as a society to build bridges, and fix those gaps.

Digitalization and democratization of access as allies of gender equity

Digitalization allows people to access information and connect with other people in another country with a few clicks. The growth in the use of social networks and connectivity in our daily lives has facilitated access to people and realities around the world.

In the gender aspect, technological advances can widen the world’s vision of women (and people in general) around the world. We form stereotypes about people and cultures that we receive from media, movies, books, etc. As a Nigerian writer, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie says in her ‘TED TALK: The Danger of a Single Story’: “That when we reject the single story, when we realize that there is never a single story about any place, we regain a kind of paradise.” So digitalization can present new stories about destinies. Can highlight women in the past and the present that are doing amazing things, and better than that can connect them to strengthen their own.

Conclusion

This article presented examples of consequences caused by the inequity of gender in life and in tourism: for the female traveler and for the female service provider of tourism.

Also, the importance to have a wide vision of gender. If representations of the female gender are lacking, if those that exist are erased, or if women are repressed to express themselves and occupy positions of power, this generates a consequence that other women do not even think about or aspire to the possibility of doing the same. Representativity is important.

On the other hand, if we (as a society) highlighted the importance of the representativeness of women in the spaces of power and experience; if we encourage people to focus on their aspirations rather than establishing what is girlish and boyish if we have more shared housework that equilibrates the time used for both genders taking care of the common space and family, also if we have more women in the power positions, and receiving the same wage for the same function, we gonna have a lot of advances as a society, and of course, on tourism. For that, we need to have claire strategies to accelerate real gender equity and not regress the steps that we have achieved. And Sustainable Development Goal 5 (Gender Equity) is an important milestone to be followed. To finish, if one woman sees another doing or occupying some space, she realizes that she as a woman can do the same.

Jussara Pellicano Botelho CEO at Sisterwave

Jussara is Brazilian and so proud of her roots and her country. She’s a designer, entrepreneur, CEO, and founder of Sisterwave, that’s a global community for women travelers. After 5 years of startup, now we have a community with more than 20k sisters in Brazil, and in the expansion to grow that network all over the world because every woman must feel free to enjoy and explore the world.
Her purpose has these tripod: social impact (make a positive difference in people and environment life), creativity (fulfill with creative things and make things creatively), and nature (being in contact with and preserving it). She has experience in Branding, Design Thinking, Startups, Turistechs, SDGs, and Social Impact businesses.

Did you like this article and are interested in learning more about the fundamentals of tourism? Then we invite you to enroll today in the Introduction to Tourism- Industry management MOOC!

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Bibliography

Global Gender Gap

https://www3.weforum.org/docs/WEF_GGGR_2022.pdf

UN WOMEN – Redistribute unpaid work

https://www.unwomen.org/en/news/in-focus/csw61/redistribute-unpaid-work

História del Turismo

https://www.lavanguardia.com/vida/junior-report/20220824/8479345/turismo-actividad-historia.html

Ada Lovelace

https://www.lavanguardia.com/historiayvida/historia-contemporanea/20190627/47312240871/ada-lovelace-la-primera-programadora.html

Mileva Maric Einstein

https://time.com/5551098/mileva-einstein-history/

Egeria

https://blog.ferrovial.com/en/2020/07/egeria-the-woman-who-traveled-fourth-century-roads-to-the-east/

Freya Stark

https://www.theheroinecollective.com/freya-stark/

Jeanne Baret

https://oceanicas.ieo.es/historias-de-pioneras/jane-baret/

Ida Pfeiffer

https://www.gutenberg.org/files/18037/18037-h/18037-h.htm

Bessie Coleman

https://interactive.wttw.com/a/chicago-stories-bessie-coleman

UNWTO Global Report on Women in Tourism

https://www.e-unwto.org/doi/pdf/10.18111/9789284420384

A MOVEMENT IN NEED OF LEADERSHIP The case for Travel & Tourism to move the needle on Gender Diversity and course correct with agility

https://www.hospitalitynet.org/file/152008968.pdf

Women in the Workplace 2021

https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/diversity-and-inclusion/women-in-the-workplace

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

https://www.ted.com/talks/chimamanda_ngozi_adichie_the_danger_of_a_single_story

الدورات ذات الصلة عرض المزيد من الدورات

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إدارة أحداث الأعمال: التنقل في عالم التجمعات المؤسسية والاجتماعية تعرف على الاستراتيجيات الرئيسية للتخطيط الناجح للفعاليات المؤسسية والاجتماعية وتنفيذها من خلال الدورة التدريبية المتعمقة لإدارة فعاليات الأعمال اقرأ المزيد
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الابتكار والتحول الرقمي في صناعة السياحة استكشف التحول الرقمي في قطاع السياحة مع تعلم كيفية تنفيذ استراتيجيات فعالة وتبني سياسة الابتكار ورفع مستوى مشاركة العملاء وتحقيق التميز التشغيلي اقرأ المزيد
تسويق الوجهة وضع استراتيجيات تسويق قوية للوجهات السياحية، مع التركيز على تحليل السوق، واتخاذ مواقع تنافسية، وتنفيذ حملات ناجحة اقرأ المزيد

تسويق الوجهة وضع استراتيجيات تسويق قوية للوجهات السياحية، مع التركيز على تحليل السوق، واتخاذ مواقع تنافسية، وتنفيذ حملات ناجحة اقرأ المزيد
عمليات المطاعم ارفع مهاراتك في إدارة المطاعم من خلال هذه الدورة التدريبية عبر الإنترنت والتي تستكشف سلامة الأغذية وأنواع الخدمات وتطوير القائمة والإدارة الفعالة للمخزون اقرأ المزيد

عمليات المطاعم ارفع مهاراتك في إدارة المطاعم من خلال هذه الدورة التدريبية عبر الإنترنت والتي تستكشف سلامة الأغذية وأنواع الخدمات وتطوير القائمة والإدارة الفعالة للمخزون اقرأ المزيد
فنون الطهي وفن الطهو استكشف العلاقة بين السياحة وفن الطهو، ودور الغذاء في الثقافة والمواءمة المستدامة مع خطة عام ٢٠٣٠ اقرأ المزيد

فنون الطهي وفن الطهو استكشف العلاقة بين السياحة وفن الطهو، ودور الغذاء في الثقافة والمواءمة المستدامة مع خطة عام ٢٠٣٠ اقرأ المزيد
أساسيات الطهي للعمليات وإدارة تقديم الطعام والتقنيات الجديدة اتقن أساسيات الطهي والتقنيات المبتكرة وتطوير قائمة الطعام وإدارة المطاعم في هذه الدورة الشاملة للطهاة الطموحين وعشاق الطهي اقرأ المزيد

أساسيات الطهي للعمليات وإدارة تقديم الطعام والتقنيات الجديدة اتقن أساسيات الطهي والتقنيات المبتكرة وتطوير قائمة الطعام وإدارة المطاعم في هذه الدورة الشاملة للطهاة الطموحين وعشاق الطهي اقرأ المزيد
تدريب المدرب .تطوير مهارات التدريب المعنى، وتعزيز التواصل، وتعلم تصميم دورات تدريبية مؤثرة في بيئات مهنية متنوعة اقرأ المزيد

تدريب المدرب .تطوير مهارات التدريب المعنى، وتعزيز التواصل، وتعلم تصميم دورات تدريبية مؤثرة في بيئات مهنية متنوعة اقرأ المزيد
إدارة الوجهة المستدامة .تعرّف على ما تتطلبه عملية إنشاء وجهات تأسر الزوار وتحمي الكوكب وتثري المجتمعات المحلية اقرأ المزيد

إدارة الوجهة المستدامة .تعرّف على ما تتطلبه عملية إنشاء وجهات تأسر الزوار وتحمي الكوكب وتثري المجتمعات المحلية اقرأ المزيد
عمليات الفندق استعد لمسيرتك المهنية في مجال الضيافة من خلال هذه الدورة التدريبية عبر الإنترنت، والتي تركز على العمليات وخدمة الضيوف واستراتيجيات الإيرادات والمزيد اقرأ المزيد

عمليات الفندق استعد لمسيرتك المهنية في مجال الضيافة من خلال هذه الدورة التدريبية عبر الإنترنت، والتي تركز على العمليات وخدمة الضيوف واستراتيجيات الإيرادات والمزيد اقرأ المزيد

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Embracing this technological revolution will allow us to tailor content to the needs of modern students and news consumers. We can offer content in a variety of local languages and promote both critical thinking and problem-solving through increasingly interactive content.

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As the director of an English language news outlet in an Arab and French speaking country, I have witnessed how quickly a society can adapt to change and learn new skills. Morocco is now rapidly shifting, and English has become the primary language of science, entertainment and business. Young people are on board and driving the much-needed change.

In the years ahead, AI is set to disrupt both our sectors in seismic ways, prompting us to consider new ways to stay relevant to future generations who themselves face severe uncertainty about their future careers. In my experience, media platforms and educational institutes have an important role to play in the coming upheaval, and we can only do it together.

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How many universities have amazing communicators and public speakers whose inspiring words do not reach beyond their walls? How many news stories are short in detail due to time pressure or a lack of expertise among writing staff? Bringing the two sectors together can solve both issues by connecting journalists with the voices that matter, at a time when they are truly needed.

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Close partnerships between media organizations and educational institutes can help democratize learning and create a new positive public function for both sectors. My experience has shown me that these partnerships are easy to build and grow and hold the key to a more sustainable future for both sectors.

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اقرأ المزيد

The Media’s Growing Role in Education

The Media’s Growing Role in Education

In today’s rapidly evolving world, both the media sector and education share a similar predicament in terms of how to adjust to new technology. As someone who has worked in the digital media space for over 13 years, I have witnessed massive changes in how people consume their daily news, I’ve seen century-old revenue models collapse, and attention spans shorten.

In this era of unprecedented change, there is reason to be both cautious and hopeful. Opportunities and threats that were previously unimaginable are now a reality. Both media and education are facing an uncertain future due to the rapid advance of Artificial Intelligence (AI).

The challenges we face require creativity and a willingness to adapt. By working together, media and education stand a better chance of weathering the storm. Trust in both sectors is at an all-time low in many countries around the world, and continuing to operate in the same way is unlikely to change this.

Instead, we must seize this opportunity by reevaluating our core functions.

Over the past years, Morocco World News, the news outlet I founded with my brother in 2011, has built several effective partnerships with local universities, focusing on youth empowerment, employability, media literacy and skills development. Such partnerships, I believe, hold the key for a sustainable future for both sectors.

By working together, the media industry and educational institutions can teach science effectively, be more inclusive, boost awareness on issues that matter, empower young people, and encourage growth.

Embracing this technological revolution will allow us to tailor content to the needs of modern students and news consumers. We can offer content in a variety of local languages and promote both critical thinking and problem-solving through increasingly interactive content.

More importantly, sectors such as media and education have the opportunity to promote life-long learning as a vital skill in our ever-changing labour market.

As the director of an English language news outlet in an Arab and French speaking country, I have witnessed how quickly a society can adapt to change and learn new skills. Morocco is now rapidly shifting, and English has become the primary language of science, entertainment and business. Young people are on board and driving the much-needed change.

In the years ahead, AI is set to disrupt both our sectors in seismic ways, prompting us to consider new ways to stay relevant to future generations who themselves face severe uncertainty about their future careers. In my experience, media platforms and educational institutes have an important role to play in the coming upheaval, and we can only do it together.

Strengthening ties between educators and the media will result in more engaging educational content. Interactivity and customization feeds the curiosity of young minds. It also encourages creativity and critical thinking. The use of advanced technology can help boost media literacy by bringing top educational content to the forefront of the news.

How many universities have amazing communicators and public speakers whose inspiring words do not reach beyond their walls? How many news stories are short in detail due to time pressure or a lack of expertise among writing staff? Bringing the two sectors together can solve both issues by connecting journalists with the voices that matter, at a time when they are truly needed.

I believe the answer to the coming wave of transformative technology lies in human connections. We need to connect the curious to those willing to share their knowledge, we need to empower people to check facts and sources, and we need to ensure this happens in an accessible and inclusive way.

Close partnerships between media organizations and educational institutes can help democratize learning and create a new positive public function for both sectors. My experience has shown me that these partnerships are easy to build and grow and hold the key to a more sustainable future for both sectors.

Adnane Bennis

Co-Founder and CEO of Morocco World News

اقرأ المزيد
Crisis Management in Tourism

Crisis Management in Tourism

The tourism sector has faced unprecedented volatility and uncertainty over the past 5 years, both globally and locally. The pandemic and its related restrictions, the geopolitical situation and local conflicts, the acceleration of inflation and price increases, and the disruption of logistical chains led to the share of tourism in the global economy decreasing significantly. By the end of 2023 only a few destinations had managed to return to 2019 levels.

Now, however, the outlook is more encouraging. Consumer behavior in 2024, despite ongoing uncertainty, indicates a strong will to travel. Thanks to this, the sector is adapting to changing reality – new tourist routes are emerging and existing ones are being developed, new hotels, airports, restaurants, and other infrastructure are opening.

That said, the sector is still affected by seasonality, high fixed costs, a lack of qualified people and relatively low profitability. In rapidly changing and disruptive environment, with unforeseen changes, crisis management and change management become critical to ensure the industry is sustainable and safe for tourists and business.

Crisis management in the tourism sector generally involves a strategic and proactive approach taken by business to anticipate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from unexpected events that may influence the safety, travel plans, and the overall satisfaction of tourists. The primary goal is to minimize the effects of a crisis, restore confidence, and enable a relevant recovery for all parties involved.

As for any general management activities, crisis management in tourism logically includes several steps:

1)Assessing the nature of crisis

Tourism industry crises can take different forms, each demanding a specific response. Natural disasters can disrupt travel plans, infrastructure, and local communities. Human-made events, such as terrorist attacks, civil unrest, or geopolitical tensions, can impact the safety and security of tourists in affected regions. Additionally, health-related issues, exemplified by pandemics like COVID-19, present unique challenges with widespread implications for global travel.

2)Pre-Crisis Planning and Preparation

Effective crisis management starts long before a crisis itself appears. The tourism industry must engage in pre-crisis planning and preparedness to mitigate potential risks and enhance responsiveness during emergencies. This involves conducting risk assessments, identifying vulnerabilities, and establishing crisis response teams with clear roles and responsibilities. Relevant communication plans are essential to spread accurate and timely information to tourists, employees, and the public, assuring transparency and trust.

3)Crisis Response and Communication

While crisis starts, the effectiveness of the response and communication can make a significant difference in managing the situation. Tourism enterprises must activate their crisis response teams promptly and implement pre-established protocols and procedures. Swift communication with relevant authorities, local communities, and other stakeholders is essential to assess the situation accurately and make informed decisions. Transparent communication with tourists is crucial for managing expectations, providing safety guidelines, and offering alternative solutions.

4)Flexibility and Redemption Strategies

Flexibility is a crucial component of effective crisis management in tourism. Diversifying tourism offerings, both in terms of destinations and experiences, may reduce the impact of crisis that affect specific regions or sectors. Creating contingency funds and investing in comprehensive insurance can provide financial stability during challenging times. Collaborative efforts among public and private sectors can improve the managing capabilities, fostering a collective commitment to the industry’s survival and recovery.

5)Post-Crisis Assessment and Mastering

After managing a crisis, a thorough post-crisis analysis is vital to learn from the experience and improve future crisis management strategies. The tourism industry should embrace a culture of life-long learning and adaptation, updating plans based on emerging trends and challenges. Sharing lessons learned with the industry community promotes knowledge sharing and improves practices for the tourism sector.

ARTEM KLYKOV, PhD, MBA

professor of tourism, Silk Road University Samarkand

visiting professor, SWISSAM International University

hospitality expert

media contributor

coach, mentor

اقرأ المزيد

Crisis Management in Tourism

Crisis Management in Tourism

The tourism sector has faced unprecedented volatility and uncertainty over the past 5 years, both globally and locally. The pandemic and its related restrictions, the geopolitical situation and local conflicts, the acceleration of inflation and price increases, and the disruption of logistical chains led to the share of tourism in the global economy decreasing significantly. By the end of 2023 only a few destinations had managed to return to 2019 levels.

Now, however, the outlook is more encouraging. Consumer behavior in 2024, despite ongoing uncertainty, indicates a strong will to travel. Thanks to this, the sector is adapting to changing reality – new tourist routes are emerging and existing ones are being developed, new hotels, airports, restaurants, and other infrastructure are opening.

That said, the sector is still affected by seasonality, high fixed costs, a lack of qualified people and relatively low profitability. In rapidly changing and disruptive environment, with unforeseen changes, crisis management and change management become critical to ensure the industry is sustainable and safe for tourists and business.

Crisis management in the tourism sector generally involves a strategic and proactive approach taken by business to anticipate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from unexpected events that may influence the safety, travel plans, and the overall satisfaction of tourists. The primary goal is to minimize the effects of a crisis, restore confidence, and enable a relevant recovery for all parties involved.

As for any general management activities, crisis management in tourism logically includes several steps:

1)Assessing the nature of crisis

Tourism industry crises can take different forms, each demanding a specific response. Natural disasters can disrupt travel plans, infrastructure, and local communities. Human-made events, such as terrorist attacks, civil unrest, or geopolitical tensions, can impact the safety and security of tourists in affected regions. Additionally, health-related issues, exemplified by pandemics like COVID-19, present unique challenges with widespread implications for global travel.

2)Pre-Crisis Planning and Preparation

Effective crisis management starts long before a crisis itself appears. The tourism industry must engage in pre-crisis planning and preparedness to mitigate potential risks and enhance responsiveness during emergencies. This involves conducting risk assessments, identifying vulnerabilities, and establishing crisis response teams with clear roles and responsibilities. Relevant communication plans are essential to spread accurate and timely information to tourists, employees, and the public, assuring transparency and trust.

3)Crisis Response and Communication

While crisis starts, the effectiveness of the response and communication can make a significant difference in managing the situation. Tourism enterprises must activate their crisis response teams promptly and implement pre-established protocols and procedures. Swift communication with relevant authorities, local communities, and other stakeholders is essential to assess the situation accurately and make informed decisions. Transparent communication with tourists is crucial for managing expectations, providing safety guidelines, and offering alternative solutions.

4)Flexibility and Redemption Strategies

Flexibility is a crucial component of effective crisis management in tourism. Diversifying tourism offerings, both in terms of destinations and experiences, may reduce the impact of crisis that affect specific regions or sectors. Creating contingency funds and investing in comprehensive insurance can provide financial stability during challenging times. Collaborative efforts among public and private sectors can improve the managing capabilities, fostering a collective commitment to the industry’s survival and recovery.

5)Post-Crisis Assessment and Mastering

After managing a crisis, a thorough post-crisis analysis is vital to learn from the experience and improve future crisis management strategies. The tourism industry should embrace a culture of life-long learning and adaptation, updating plans based on emerging trends and challenges. Sharing lessons learned with the industry community promotes knowledge sharing and improves practices for the tourism sector.

ARTEM KLYKOV, PhD, MBA

professor of tourism, Silk Road University Samarkand

visiting professor, SWISSAM International University

hospitality expert

media contributor

coach, mentor

اقرأ المزيد
Integrating tourism and hospitality curricula in high schools with AHLEI
Integrating tourism and hospitality curricula in high schools with AHLEI

The American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI) established in 1953, is one of the foremost certifying bodies and publishers of quality resources to train, develop, and certify hospitality industry professionals globally. AHLEI is also committed to supporting the education of those just starting to pursue their careers, the next generation of hospitality and tourism leaders, innovators and champions!

AHLEI conducted extensive Gen Z research prior to creating our newest curricula. These results also influenced the new Education Toolkit, created in partnership with UN Tourism for the incorporation of tourism as a subject in high schools.

Young people who are excited about creating great experiences, meeting new people, making a positive impact on their communities and growing in their careers are increasingly drawn to the hospitality industry.

Why Introduce Tourism and Hospitality to School-Age Students?

AHLEI’s research pointed to some intriguing findings. Students are making decisions increasingly early about the career they want to pursue but many don’t consider hospitality. Why? Because of preconceived notions about the opportunities available to them. Additional findings include:

Gen Z students are very practical. They are looking for a return on their educational investments. The more we can educate them about career growth and earning potential, the more they will start thinking seriously about tourism and hospitality as a career choice.

Gen Z students prioritize feeling proud of what they do and where they work. They are motivated by exciting and interesting careers, Instagram-worthy experiences, and the positive impact the hospitality industry has on communities and economies.

Gen Z is interested in inclusivity and in the freedom to be who they are. Hospitality is an amazing industry that encourages guests and employees alike to be their authentic selves.

AHLEI hears from our industry partners that while some young people may not be as skilled at test-taking or formal education, if they have great interpersonal skills, positive energy and good problem-solving instincts, there is a home for them in the hospitality industry. There are excellent opportunities for anyone with these qualities who is willing to work hard and learn.

Thus, in our new curriculum we emphasized relevance in the real world, encouraging exploration and practice through inquiry-based and problem-solving activities, and engaging students through our design choices, narrative voice, and multimedia resources. Let’s explore our newest resources.

Implementing the HTM Curriculum

The AHLEI high school curriculum, Hospitality and Tourism Management provides an engaging comprehensive exploration of different segments within the industry and the career paths in each.

This article includes:

Implementation of the curriculum including organization, coverage and educator support

Key themes and learning objectives of the text

Endorsement by the U.S. hotel and lodging industry

Testimonials from international partners

The AHLEI authoring and instructional design teams place a high priority on creating relevant, accurate, up to date and industry-driven content. Passive memorization is not the goal. Our materials are designed to help students think and do! There are elements incorporated regularly throughout learning and teacher resource materials designed to prompt student output and higher levels of learning.

Organization

Hospitality & Tourism Management is a single-volume textbook that can be aligned with any length program, though it is most often used alongside one- or two-year programs. The text is broken into modular units covering each segment of the industry. Each unit is comprised of self-contained chapters that dive deeper into skills and concepts. Optional activities, case studies and projects offer more rigor and application if desired. This modular approach along with helpful pacing guides allow educators to easily align the curriculum with the preferred order and structure of their program.

Coverage

Hospitality is a huge and varied industry and the HTM curriculum includes a comprehensive overview of lodging and hotels, food and beverage operations, event management, travel and tourism. Coverage includes an overview of each segment, organizational structure and career paths, key roles and responsibilities. Opening chapters highlight the importance of the role of the industry and introduce students to core concepts and skills around providing excellent guest service. Closing chapters focus on business and leadership concepts like marketing, finance and entrepreneurship.

The coverage in HTM is based on input from dozens of industry professionals, teachers and subject matter experts for a relevant contemporary take on hospitality education with both practical and aspirational applications.

Teacher Support

The online teacher resource portal for Hospitality & Tourism Management includes a wealth of supplementary materials to help educators deliver the content to their students. The Teacher’s Companion includes notes, additional activities and discussion questions as well as organizational tools and engaging videos summarizing the main concepts in each chapter. Test Banks, Power Points, Instructor activity guide and lesson plan tools are also available to make class prep easy.

AHLEI also offers The Certified Hospitality Instructor (CHI) Program, a self-paced training course to help educators without an industry background effectively teach content in these areas. In addition to the course and exam, candidates for the CHI must also complete 120 hours of internship with a hospitality organization.

Hospitality and Tourism Specialist Credential

The HTM curriculum prepares students to earn their Hospitality Tourism Specialist credential from the American Hotel & Lodging Association, (AHLA), today the largest trade hotel association in the U.S. with 32,000 hotel members. Endorsed by some of the premier hospitality brands in the world, the HTS credential demonstrates student mastery of industry concepts. Students may earn the credential upon passing the AHLEI HTS exam and showing 100 hours of work experience in a hospitality role.

Assessment and credentialling is a large part of our program development. Credentials serve as a “passport” for students leaving the classroom, demonstrating the mastery that they achieved and using it as an entry into jobs within any segment of the industry.

Key Themes and Learning Objectives

Career Readiness and Technical Skills

One of the key themes throughout Hospitality and Tourism Management is that hospitality is a business, and a mastery of both technical and “soft” skills will open endless possibilities for career advancement. Operational and managerial topics as well as key math concepts are introduced in each unit. In addition, the text focuses on career readiness skills like written and verbal communication, problem-solving and teamwork, all in the context of a hospitality workplace.

Global Awareness

Hospitality is a global industry, supporting local economies and bringing together people from around the world. Global awareness and appreciation of and respect for different cultures is another core theme featured throughout. The text features international examples, discussions of cultural awareness, and coverage of cultural and operational differences in different countries.

Application

Throughout the text are scenarios, case studies, projects, activities, discussion questions and more, all designed for learners to immediately apply what they are learning, even from within the classroom. This presentation maximizes student engagement, understanding and retention of key concepts.

Endorsements and Formal Recognition

Hospitality and Tourism Management Second Edition is recognized by leaders in the U.S. hotel and lodging industry, including:

Marriott International

BF Saul Company Hospitality Group

Hilton

G6 Hospitality LLC

RRI West Management

Real Hospitality Group

Mid-Continent Hospitality

Sonesta

TradeWinds Island Resorts

These industry leaders appreciate that HTM Second Edition highlights the knowledge and skills that hospitality leaders look for in their employees today. HTM program completion, along with the HTS credential, fully prepares a learner to be a high-potential candidate for entry-level positions with the experience needed to bring value to the industry and grow in their careers.

Expand Your Horizons with HTM

The second edition of HTM offers learners a global perspective of the industry, its opportunities and its impact on the world.

Two of AHLEI’s valued governmental partners, and UNWTO member states, share the positive impact the HTM program can have on a national tourism industry below.

Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, CD, MP., states:

“The Hospitality and Tourism Management Program has been a game-changer for Jamaica’s tourism industry and our nation. We have witnessed remarkable transformations through this innovative program in partnership with the esteemed American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI). Our students now have the opportunity to acquire certification from AHLEI and an Associate Degree in Customer Service, equipping them with the skills and expertise needed to excel in the hospitality
sector. Since its introduction in select high schools in September 2018, the HTM Program has ushered in a new era of professionalism and excellence in our tourism sector. We have witnessed a significant upskilling among our youth, creating a more competent and dedicated workforce prepared to deliver exceptional service. I am incredibly proud of the hard work and dedication put forth by our students, schools, and industry partners who have embraced the HTM Program. Together, we are shaping a brighter future for Jamaica that empowers our youth and ensures our country remains a premier global
destination for years to come.”

Ms. Janet Forbes-Dean, Subject Coordinator for Family and Consumer Science Education at Jack Hayward Senior High School in Grand Bahama, says:

“The high school students at the Jack Hayward Senior High School have attained numerous AHLEI International Certifications over the past thirteen (13) years. These certifications are our core examination. There is no Bahamas General Certificate of Secondary Education (B.G.C.S.E.) national examination for hospitality students. AHLEI’s program is awesome. We have former and current students who received one or more certifications in Kitchen Cook, Breakfast Attendant, Front Desk Attendant, HTMP Year 1, Restaurant Server, START, Golden Opportunities, Guest Service Gold, and Golden Opportunities Tourism. These certifications along with the high school Hospitality and Tourism Curriculum are essential for students who are desirous of continuing a career in Hospitality.”

Get Started Today with AHLEI’s Hospitality & Tourism Program

We can’t wait to help you get started. Learn more here.

For further questions, contact Ed Kastli, Channel Vice President of International Sales, at ekastli@ahlei.org.

Elizabeth O’Brien

Senior Product Manager
اقرأ المزيد
Integrating tourism and hospitality curricula in high schools with AHLEI
Integrating tourism and hospitality curricula in high schools with AHLEI

The American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI) established in 1953, is one of the foremost certifying bodies and publishers of quality resources to train, develop, and certify hospitality industry professionals globally. AHLEI is also committed to supporting the education of those just starting to pursue their careers, the next generation of hospitality and tourism leaders, innovators and champions!

AHLEI conducted extensive Gen Z research prior to creating our newest curricula. These results also influenced the new Education Toolkit, created in partnership with UN Tourism for the incorporation of tourism as a subject in high schools.

Young people who are excited about creating great experiences, meeting new people, making a positive impact on their communities and growing in their careers are increasingly drawn to the hospitality industry.

Why Introduce Tourism and Hospitality to School-Age Students?

AHLEI’s research pointed to some intriguing findings. Students are making decisions increasingly early about the career they want to pursue but many don’t consider hospitality. Why? Because of preconceived notions about the opportunities available to them. Additional findings include:

Gen Z students are very practical. They are looking for a return on their educational investments. The more we can educate them about career growth and earning potential, the more they will start thinking seriously about tourism and hospitality as a career choice.

Gen Z students prioritize feeling proud of what they do and where they work. They are motivated by exciting and interesting careers, Instagram-worthy experiences, and the positive impact the hospitality industry has on communities and economies.

Gen Z is interested in inclusivity and in the freedom to be who they are. Hospitality is an amazing industry that encourages guests and employees alike to be their authentic selves.

AHLEI hears from our industry partners that while some young people may not be as skilled at test-taking or formal education, if they have great interpersonal skills, positive energy and good problem-solving instincts, there is a home for them in the hospitality industry. There are excellent opportunities for anyone with these qualities who is willing to work hard and learn.

Thus, in our new curriculum we emphasized relevance in the real world, encouraging exploration and practice through inquiry-based and problem-solving activities, and engaging students through our design choices, narrative voice, and multimedia resources. Let’s explore our newest resources.

Implementing the HTM Curriculum

The AHLEI high school curriculum, Hospitality and Tourism Management provides an engaging comprehensive exploration of different segments within the industry and the career paths in each.

This article includes:

Implementation of the curriculum including organization, coverage and educator support

Key themes and learning objectives of the text

Endorsement by the U.S. hotel and lodging industry

Testimonials from international partners

The AHLEI authoring and instructional design teams place a high priority on creating relevant, accurate, up to date and industry-driven content. Passive memorization is not the goal. Our materials are designed to help students think and do! There are elements incorporated regularly throughout learning and teacher resource materials designed to prompt student output and higher levels of learning.

Organization

Hospitality & Tourism Management is a single-volume textbook that can be aligned with any length program, though it is most often used alongside one- or two-year programs. The text is broken into modular units covering each segment of the industry. Each unit is comprised of self-contained chapters that dive deeper into skills and concepts. Optional activities, case studies and projects offer more rigor and application if desired. This modular approach along with helpful pacing guides allow educators to easily align the curriculum with the preferred order and structure of their program.

Coverage

Hospitality is a huge and varied industry and the HTM curriculum includes a comprehensive overview of lodging and hotels, food and beverage operations, event management, travel and tourism. Coverage includes an overview of each segment, organizational structure and career paths, key roles and responsibilities. Opening chapters highlight the importance of the role of the industry and introduce students to core concepts and skills around providing excellent guest service. Closing chapters focus on business and leadership concepts like marketing, finance and entrepreneurship.

The coverage in HTM is based on input from dozens of industry professionals, teachers and subject matter experts for a relevant contemporary take on hospitality education with both practical and aspirational applications.

Teacher Support

The online teacher resource portal for Hospitality & Tourism Management includes a wealth of supplementary materials to help educators deliver the content to their students. The Teacher’s Companion includes notes, additional activities and discussion questions as well as organizational tools and engaging videos summarizing the main concepts in each chapter. Test Banks, Power Points, Instructor activity guide and lesson plan tools are also available to make class prep easy.

AHLEI also offers The Certified Hospitality Instructor (CHI) Program, a self-paced training course to help educators without an industry background effectively teach content in these areas. In addition to the course and exam, candidates for the CHI must also complete 120 hours of internship with a hospitality organization.

Hospitality and Tourism Specialist Credential

The HTM curriculum prepares students to earn their Hospitality Tourism Specialist credential from the American Hotel & Lodging Association, (AHLA), today the largest trade hotel association in the U.S. with 32,000 hotel members. Endorsed by some of the premier hospitality brands in the world, the HTS credential demonstrates student mastery of industry concepts. Students may earn the credential upon passing the AHLEI HTS exam and showing 100 hours of work experience in a hospitality role.

Assessment and credentialling is a large part of our program development. Credentials serve as a “passport” for students leaving the classroom, demonstrating the mastery that they achieved and using it as an entry into jobs within any segment of the industry.

Key Themes and Learning Objectives

Career Readiness and Technical Skills

One of the key themes throughout Hospitality and Tourism Management is that hospitality is a business, and a mastery of both technical and “soft” skills will open endless possibilities for career advancement. Operational and managerial topics as well as key math concepts are introduced in each unit. In addition, the text focuses on career readiness skills like written and verbal communication, problem-solving and teamwork, all in the context of a hospitality workplace.

Global Awareness

Hospitality is a global industry, supporting local economies and bringing together people from around the world. Global awareness and appreciation of and respect for different cultures is another core theme featured throughout. The text features international examples, discussions of cultural awareness, and coverage of cultural and operational differences in different countries.

Application

Throughout the text are scenarios, case studies, projects, activities, discussion questions and more, all designed for learners to immediately apply what they are learning, even from within the classroom. This presentation maximizes student engagement, understanding and retention of key concepts.

Endorsements and Formal Recognition

Hospitality and Tourism Management Second Edition is recognized by leaders in the U.S. hotel and lodging industry, including:

Marriott International

BF Saul Company Hospitality Group

Hilton

G6 Hospitality LLC

RRI West Management

Real Hospitality Group

Mid-Continent Hospitality

Sonesta

TradeWinds Island Resorts

These industry leaders appreciate that HTM Second Edition highlights the knowledge and skills that hospitality leaders look for in their employees today. HTM program completion, along with the HTS credential, fully prepares a learner to be a high-potential candidate for entry-level positions with the experience needed to bring value to the industry and grow in their careers.

Expand Your Horizons with HTM

The second edition of HTM offers learners a global perspective of the industry, its opportunities and its impact on the world.

Two of AHLEI’s valued governmental partners, and UNWTO member states, share the positive impact the HTM program can have on a national tourism industry below.

Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, CD, MP., states:

“The Hospitality and Tourism Management Program has been a game-changer for Jamaica’s tourism industry and our nation. We have witnessed remarkable transformations through this innovative program in partnership with the esteemed American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI). Our students now have the opportunity to acquire certification from AHLEI and an Associate Degree in Customer Service, equipping them with the skills and expertise needed to excel in the hospitality
sector. Since its introduction in select high schools in September 2018, the HTM Program has ushered in a new era of professionalism and excellence in our tourism sector. We have witnessed a significant upskilling among our youth, creating a more competent and dedicated workforce prepared to deliver exceptional service. I am incredibly proud of the hard work and dedication put forth by our students, schools, and industry partners who have embraced the HTM Program. Together, we are shaping a brighter future for Jamaica that empowers our youth and ensures our country remains a premier global
destination for years to come.”

Ms. Janet Forbes-Dean, Subject Coordinator for Family and Consumer Science Education at Jack Hayward Senior High School in Grand Bahama, says:

“The high school students at the Jack Hayward Senior High School have attained numerous AHLEI International Certifications over the past thirteen (13) years. These certifications are our core examination. There is no Bahamas General Certificate of Secondary Education (B.G.C.S.E.) national examination for hospitality students. AHLEI’s program is awesome. We have former and current students who received one or more certifications in Kitchen Cook, Breakfast Attendant, Front Desk Attendant, HTMP Year 1, Restaurant Server, START, Golden Opportunities, Guest Service Gold, and Golden Opportunities Tourism. These certifications along with the high school Hospitality and Tourism Curriculum are essential for students who are desirous of continuing a career in Hospitality.”

Get Started Today with AHLEI’s Hospitality & Tourism Program

We can’t wait to help you get started. Learn more here.

For further questions, contact Ed Kastli, Channel Vice President of International Sales, at ekastli@ahlei.org.

Elizabeth O’Brien

Senior Product Manager
اقرأ المزيد
Enhancing Tourism Education through Volunteer Teaching Experiences
Enhancing Tourism Education through Volunteer Teaching Experiences

Submitted by Stephen Sayers,

English Lecturer; Faculty Advisor to the IFTM Volunteer Circle

In 2019, ‘The IFTM Volunteer Circle’ (IFTMVC) began providing support for poverty alleviation through bi-annual volunteer teaching trips for 7-10 days to raise the interest and ability of junior high-school students at the Second National High School in Cong Jiang County, Gui Zhou. Historically, local students in Cong Jiang have been unable to gain access to better universities due to poor English scores in their ‘high-school entrance’ exams.

Traveling to the location, and participating in community engagement – meaningful, interactive, and immersive – is creating an educational experience that complements theoretical lessons, is highly memorable, and most importantly capable of transforming volunteers. In the words of one volunteer:

“I often choose to be alone because I find it difficult to integrate into the community. But when I met this group of students, their enthusiasm had an infectious force, so I unconsciously fell into it. Their enthusiasm and vitality made me confident and dare to communicate with them!”

An analysis of 50 students’ reflections and those of several students shared four years after their initial trips illustrates transformation in three areas: personality traits, skills development, and perspectives.

Personality traits

Students expressed transformation in many aspects of their ‘inner-world’. They showed an increased sense of “happiness”, “optimism”, “confidence”, “boldness”, “being outgoing”, “gratitude”, “well-being”, “fulfillment”, “enthusiasm”, “cherishing life”, and “gratefulness”. They saw that they had demonstrated “responsibility”, “adaptability”, and “initiative” and had an improved “attitude”.

“I used to be a very introverted and sensitive person, and I was afraid that people would hurt me, so I built a tall wall in my heart to protect myself from being hurt. After this trip, I find myself happier and more optimistic. The naivety and braveness of those children encourage me a lot.”

“Through this activity, I experienced the joy of being a teacher. I gradually became less shy during the activity. I started to become bolder and took the initiative to communicate with those students who were not fond of speaking English. I successfully helped them to confidently speak English.”

“After this trip, I can better adapt to the environment, and I know how to communicate with others better, which is the biggest gain for me.”

“This event made me cherish my life now. I should no longer complain about the living environment, and no longer worry about small difficulties. Now I can do so many meaningful things, not because I am excellent, but because I am lucky enough.”

Skills development

Another area of transformation concerned skills development, including “communication”, “public speaking”, “problem-solving”, “teaching”, “social”, “leadership” and “critical thinking”.

“I was a bit shy in the first class as it was my first time standing in front of the classroom as a “teacher”. However, I think I made some progress. Gradually I talked louder and became more comfortable in the class. I improved public speaking skills in a way.”

“This journey has changed me a lot, including my work attitude, accuracy of information, understanding of students, and teaching skills… The local teachers taught me some teaching skills and some software to assist in teaching.”

“The trip changed me in different ways… it improved my social skills. I am not an out-going person, sometimes it may be hard to talk a lot with others from the very beginning…”

“The trip changed my view of my influence to the world. I can’t change (all) the students totally, but I can influence someone and it is enough.”

“… for myself, I will not wear something like AJ shoes anymore… Maybe it doesn’t matter but it just makes me feel uncomfortable anyway…”

Perspectives

In order to strengthen students’ attitudes of ‘mutual respect and understanding’ (GCET – Article 1), one of the guided reflection questions challenged the prevailing attitude that volunteering is the ‘haves’ providing for the ‘have nots’. Many students developed the sense of perception to see the inter-connectedness of volunteering and personal transformation.

“I used to think volunteering is… to try my best to provide help to others in need. After this trip, I think volunteering is not only unilateral help, but also an opportunity to learn.”

“I always thought that volunteering was just a donation to help children in poor areas. After this activity, and integrating into the children’s life, I realized the meaning of volunteer activities. We open the window of the world for them, and they bring us the touch and beauty of life.”

“This is my second time participating in this project, and the change from being a participant to a leader has given me a deeper understanding of the entire activity… through… planning and organizing, I realized that the success of an activity doesn’t solely depend on the richness of its content. It also requires meticulous organization and smooth coordination of various aspects. Learning from previous experiences and continuously improving the activity plan can attract capable individuals to participate and maximize the project’s impact. This is how my understanding of volunteering has changed. It has made me realize that volunteering is a collective effort…”

Four years after her first trip and now a Master’s student at University College of London, (UCL) shared her reflective thoughts. Her words testify to the power that well-designed volunteer trips have in setting a student on a path to ‘becoming’ a life-long learner and protagonist for the greater good.

“I would like to say that participating in and organizing (the) volunteer trips (has been) one of the best and most worthy things in my life so far… During my two volunteer experiences in Cong Jiang, China, I actively participated in teaching English and engaging in various extracurricular activities with the students. The first time in 2019, I observed… many locals who believed education is useless, (and that) boys are better than girls… I recognized the deep-rooted challenges in altering perspectives towards education… and (that) it is a long-term task. I also realized the impact of education on shaping beliefs, and life choices… these volunteer experiences shaped me to be a better person with more confidence and belief that I have the ability to achieve something…

Furthermore, these experiences have undoubtedly influenced my future aspirations. I would like to engage in volunteer activities continuously and am now participating in volunteer activities actively in London. They also sparked my interest in educational development and community engagement. As I envision my future, I see myself actively contributing to educational institutions or possibly even to international organizations or non-government organizations…”

Though much still needs to be learned to optimize the dual path of personal and social transformation that can be effected through these trips, it is clear they provide a path to a profound transformation in students’ and directly contribute to the IFTM vision, “As an advocate of community engagement, IFTM takes pride in producing graduates that not only excel professionally but also work for the greater good of society” (President’s Message; IFTM Website). This author believes that with ‘collective will’ and the wise allocation of resources this kind of innovative educational experience – integrating students and community engagement – can be extended to benefit all undergraduates and many more local communities.

Stephen Sayers

English Lecturer

Faculty Advisor to the IFTM Volunteer Circle
اقرأ المزيد
Enhancing Tourism Education through Volunteer Teaching Experiences
Enhancing Tourism Education through Volunteer Teaching Experiences

Submitted by Stephen Sayers,

English Lecturer; Faculty Advisor to the IFTM Volunteer Circle

In 2019, ‘The IFTM Volunteer Circle’ (IFTMVC) began providing support for poverty alleviation through bi-annual volunteer teaching trips for 7-10 days to raise the interest and ability of junior high-school students at the Second National High School in Cong Jiang County, Gui Zhou. Historically, local students in Cong Jiang have been unable to gain access to better universities due to poor English scores in their ‘high-school entrance’ exams.

Traveling to the location, and participating in community engagement – meaningful, interactive, and immersive – is creating an educational experience that complements theoretical lessons, is highly memorable, and most importantly capable of transforming volunteers. In the words of one volunteer:

“I often choose to be alone because I find it difficult to integrate into the community. But when I met this group of students, their enthusiasm had an infectious force, so I unconsciously fell into it. Their enthusiasm and vitality made me confident and dare to communicate with them!”

An analysis of 50 students’ reflections and those of several students shared four years after their initial trips illustrates transformation in three areas: personality traits, skills development, and perspectives.

Personality traits

Students expressed transformation in many aspects of their ‘inner-world’. They showed an increased sense of “happiness”, “optimism”, “confidence”, “boldness”, “being outgoing”, “gratitude”, “well-being”, “fulfillment”, “enthusiasm”, “cherishing life”, and “gratefulness”. They saw that they had demonstrated “responsibility”, “adaptability”, and “initiative” and had an improved “attitude”.

“I used to be a very introverted and sensitive person, and I was afraid that people would hurt me, so I built a tall wall in my heart to protect myself from being hurt. After this trip, I find myself happier and more optimistic. The naivety and braveness of those children encourage me a lot.”

“Through this activity, I experienced the joy of being a teacher. I gradually became less shy during the activity. I started to become bolder and took the initiative to communicate with those students who were not fond of speaking English. I successfully helped them to confidently speak English.”

“After this trip, I can better adapt to the environment, and I know how to communicate with others better, which is the biggest gain for me.”

“This event made me cherish my life now. I should no longer complain about the living environment, and no longer worry about small difficulties. Now I can do so many meaningful things, not because I am excellent, but because I am lucky enough.”

Skills development

Another area of transformation concerned skills development, including “communication”, “public speaking”, “problem-solving”, “teaching”, “social”, “leadership” and “critical thinking”.

“I was a bit shy in the first class as it was my first time standing in front of the classroom as a “teacher”. However, I think I made some progress. Gradually I talked louder and became more comfortable in the class. I improved public speaking skills in a way.”

“This journey has changed me a lot, including my work attitude, accuracy of information, understanding of students, and teaching skills… The local teachers taught me some teaching skills and some software to assist in teaching.”

“The trip changed me in different ways… it improved my social skills. I am not an out-going person, sometimes it may be hard to talk a lot with others from the very beginning…”

“The trip changed my view of my influence to the world. I can’t change (all) the students totally, but I can influence someone and it is enough.”

“… for myself, I will not wear something like AJ shoes anymore… Maybe it doesn’t matter but it just makes me feel uncomfortable anyway…”

Perspectives

In order to strengthen students’ attitudes of ‘mutual respect and understanding’ (GCET – Article 1), one of the guided reflection questions challenged the prevailing attitude that volunteering is the ‘haves’ providing for the ‘have nots’. Many students developed the sense of perception to see the inter-connectedness of volunteering and personal transformation.

“I used to think volunteering is… to try my best to provide help to others in need. After this trip, I think volunteering is not only unilateral help, but also an opportunity to learn.”

“I always thought that volunteering was just a donation to help children in poor areas. After this activity, and integrating into the children’s life, I realized the meaning of volunteer activities. We open the window of the world for them, and they bring us the touch and beauty of life.”

“This is my second time participating in this project, and the change from being a participant to a leader has given me a deeper understanding of the entire activity… through… planning and organizing, I realized that the success of an activity doesn’t solely depend on the richness of its content. It also requires meticulous organization and smooth coordination of various aspects. Learning from previous experiences and continuously improving the activity plan can attract capable individuals to participate and maximize the project’s impact. This is how my understanding of volunteering has changed. It has made me realize that volunteering is a collective effort…”

Four years after her first trip and now a Master’s student at University College of London, (UCL) shared her reflective thoughts. Her words testify to the power that well-designed volunteer trips have in setting a student on a path to ‘becoming’ a life-long learner and protagonist for the greater good.

“I would like to say that participating in and organizing (the) volunteer trips (has been) one of the best and most worthy things in my life so far… During my two volunteer experiences in Cong Jiang, China, I actively participated in teaching English and engaging in various extracurricular activities with the students. The first time in 2019, I observed… many locals who believed education is useless, (and that) boys are better than girls… I recognized the deep-rooted challenges in altering perspectives towards education… and (that) it is a long-term task. I also realized the impact of education on shaping beliefs, and life choices… these volunteer experiences shaped me to be a better person with more confidence and belief that I have the ability to achieve something…

Furthermore, these experiences have undoubtedly influenced my future aspirations. I would like to engage in volunteer activities continuously and am now participating in volunteer activities actively in London. They also sparked my interest in educational development and community engagement. As I envision my future, I see myself actively contributing to educational institutions or possibly even to international organizations or non-government organizations…”

Though much still needs to be learned to optimize the dual path of personal and social transformation that can be effected through these trips, it is clear they provide a path to a profound transformation in students’ and directly contribute to the IFTM vision, “As an advocate of community engagement, IFTM takes pride in producing graduates that not only excel professionally but also work for the greater good of society” (President’s Message; IFTM Website). This author believes that with ‘collective will’ and the wise allocation of resources this kind of innovative educational experience – integrating students and community engagement – can be extended to benefit all undergraduates and many more local communities.

Stephen Sayers

English Lecturer

Faculty Advisor to the IFTM Volunteer Circle
اقرأ المزيد
Startup Niches in Tourism in 2024: Opportunities and Potential for Growth

By Fabio Passos

In the ever-evolving landscape of the tourism sector,2024 promises to bring new opportunities for entrepreneurs looking to venture into the world of startups. As a professor, consultant, and mentor specializing in tourism and hospitality, with a focus on entrepreneurship, innovation, and business planning, I am always vigilant regarding emerging trends. In this article, I will highlight two startup niches that deserve special attention in 2024.

Women’s Travel Journey

The women’s travel journey is a growing niche that offers numerous possibilities for the development of tourism ventures. This segment encompasses the routing of trips exclusively for women, as well as the creation of spaces and tourist services that cater to the specific needs and preferences of this audience.

Within this niche, opportunities abound in various areas, including transportation, accommodation, guided tours, and dining. Startups can develop solutions that provide safe and inclusive experiences for solo female travelers, while also promoting connections among women who wish to explore the world together.

While there are already some initiatives focused on women’s travel journeys, including initiatives in Brazil where I have had the privilege to provide mentorship, there is still significant room for growth and innovation within this market. The emphasis on safety, community building, and personalization of travel experiences may be the key to success in this expanding niche.

Startups that venture into this market can stand out by creating exclusive travel packages for women, offering cultural, culinary, and adventure experiences tailored to female preferences. Furthermore, ensuring an environment in which travelers feel secure is crucial to attracting this audience.

Vacation Rental Property Management

The vacation rental property market has experienced exponential growth over recent years, largely driven by the success of Airbnb. However, this segment is now undergoing a phase of professionalization, presenting an opportunity for startups to excel.

Many investors and entrepreneurs operating in the vacation rental property market lack specific hospitality expertise. This can result in challenges related to customer service, governance, and property rate pricing. Startups can fill this gap by offering innovative solutions that help property owners manage their properties more efficiently and profitably.

Startups can focus on enhancing the guest experience by creating tools and services that make stays more enjoyable and hassle-free. Process automation, reservation management, and predictive maintenance are some areas where innovation can enhance the professionalization of vacation rental properties.

In summary, in 2024, the tourism sector offers exciting opportunities for entrepreneurs looking to explore specialized niches. Women’s travel journeys and vacation rental property management are just two examples of areas with significant growth potential. If you are interested in discussing these niches or other topics related to tourism and hospitality, I am available for further conversation.

Fabio Passos

Fabio, with a B.A. in Tourism, a graduate degree in Marketing, and an MA in Business Administration, boasts an impressive track record of over 15 years in both the national and international realms of tourism and hospitality. His diverse experience encompasses roles in hotels, property management, aviation, travel agencies, and cruise lines. Of particular note is Fabio’s keen interest in the home rental business, where he has emerged as a recognized expert in consultancy services. As the proprietor of Studio na Carioca and Passos do Turismo, he is dedicated to offering training programs for vacation rental owners, equipping them with the essential skills needed to elevate their revenue and excel in various critical aspects of home rentals.

اقرأ المزيد

Startup Niches in Tourism in 2024: Opportunities and Potential for Growth

By Fabio Passos

In the ever-evolving landscape of the tourism sector,2024 promises to bring new opportunities for entrepreneurs looking to venture into the world of startups. As a professor, consultant, and mentor specializing in tourism and hospitality, with a focus on entrepreneurship, innovation, and business planning, I am always vigilant regarding emerging trends. In this article, I will highlight two startup niches that deserve special attention in 2024.

Women’s Travel Journey

The women’s travel journey is a growing niche that offers numerous possibilities for the development of tourism ventures. This segment encompasses the routing of trips exclusively for women, as well as the creation of spaces and tourist services that cater to the specific needs and preferences of this audience.

Within this niche, opportunities abound in various areas, including transportation, accommodation, guided tours, and dining. Startups can develop solutions that provide safe and inclusive experiences for solo female travelers, while also promoting connections among women who wish to explore the world together.

While there are already some initiatives focused on women’s travel journeys, including initiatives in Brazil where I have had the privilege to provide mentorship, there is still significant room for growth and innovation within this market. The emphasis on safety, community building, and personalization of travel experiences may be the key to success in this expanding niche.

Startups that venture into this market can stand out by creating exclusive travel packages for women, offering cultural, culinary, and adventure experiences tailored to female preferences. Furthermore, ensuring an environment in which travelers feel secure is crucial to attracting this audience.

Vacation Rental Property Management

The vacation rental property market has experienced exponential growth over recent years, largely driven by the success of Airbnb. However, this segment is now undergoing a phase of professionalization, presenting an opportunity for startups to excel.

Many investors and entrepreneurs operating in the vacation rental property market lack specific hospitality expertise. This can result in challenges related to customer service, governance, and property rate pricing. Startups can fill this gap by offering innovative solutions that help property owners manage their properties more efficiently and profitably.

Startups can focus on enhancing the guest experience by creating tools and services that make stays more enjoyable and hassle-free. Process automation, reservation management, and predictive maintenance are some areas where innovation can enhance the professionalization of vacation rental properties.

In summary, in 2024, the tourism sector offers exciting opportunities for entrepreneurs looking to explore specialized niches. Women’s travel journeys and vacation rental property management are just two examples of areas with significant growth potential. If you are interested in discussing these niches or other topics related to tourism and hospitality, I am available for further conversation.

Fabio Passos

Fabio, with a B.A. in Tourism, a graduate degree in Marketing, and an MA in Business Administration, boasts an impressive track record of over 15 years in both the national and international realms of tourism and hospitality. His diverse experience encompasses roles in hotels, property management, aviation, travel agencies, and cruise lines. Of particular note is Fabio’s keen interest in the home rental business, where he has emerged as a recognized expert in consultancy services. As the proprietor of Studio na Carioca and Passos do Turismo, he is dedicated to offering training programs for vacation rental owners, equipping them with the essential skills needed to elevate their revenue and excel in various critical aspects of home rentals.

اقرأ المزيد
Embracing Sustainability: Innovative Real Estate Solutions in the Hospitality Industry

Embracing Sustainability: Innovative Real Estate Solutions in the Hospitality Industry

By Rani Majzoub

The urgency to respond to climate change demands that all industries rethink and transform their practices and accelerate the shift to greater sustainability. The hospitality sector, historically singled out for its climate impact, is responding to this call and reimagining its foundations to embrace sustainable practices.

Innovative real estate solutions lie at the centre of this transformation. They are not merely a response to the growing environmental crisis but rather an embodiment of a commitment to reducing the industry’s ecological footprint whilst enhancing the guest experience. This article will delve into this profound shift, exploring the innovative measures shaping the future of hospitality and tourism, where sustainability and luxury harmoniously coexist.

Eco-friendly Building Design

Sustainable architecture is taking centre stage, with a visionary approach to building renovations. The adoption of eco-friendly designs exemplifies this shift, which prioritizes energy efficiency and environmental responsibility, encompassing a strategy ranging from incorporating renewable energy sources to efficient insulation and implementation of green roofs. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these roofs are meticulously engineered to curtail energy consumption and provide a unique selling point for eco-conscious travellers. From solar panel installation to rainwater harvesting systems, these developments are revolutionizing tourism’s relationship with the environment.

Smart Technologies

The integration of smart technologies marks an inflection point in sustainable hospitality real estate. Automation and sensor-based systems are effective tools for diminishing energy consumption, optimizing climate control, and enhancing security. Solutions such as key cards for room lighting and temperature control, alongside mobile apps for managing rooms, empower guests to participate in energy conservation. These technologies not only enhance guest experiences but also promote resource efficiency.

A notable example is the seamless integration of the Internet of Things (IoT) in hotel operations, allowing real-time adjustments of room conditions based on guest preferences and occupancy. This will elevate guest comfort to unprecedented heights and showcase the fusion of technology and sustainability as the future of hospitality real estate.

Water Conservation

Fresh water, a precious and finite resource, assumes even greater significance in regions grappling with water scarcity. In such places, the need to conserve water is imperative. Innovative real estate solutions involve water-efficient fixtures, including low-flow faucets, showerheads, and greywater recycling systems, serving the dual purpose of curtailing water consumption and mitigating the ecological repercussions of wastewater. A notable trend in the sector is the adoption of rainwater harvesting systems, which collect and store rainwater for uses such as irrigation, toilet flushing, and cooling systems. Through diminishing reliance on municipal water sources, hotels make meaningful contributions to water conservation while trimming utility bills, underscoring the intersection of ecological responsibility and cost-efficiency.

Sustainable Materials

From furniture décor to linens, the hospitality sector is witnessing a resounding shift towards sustainability. This transformative wave embraces the spirit of reuse and locality. Recycled, upcycled, and locally sourced materials are now finding their way into the heart of hospitality, reshaping the aesthetics and ethics of hospitality.

We can consider the choice of reclaimed wood or recycled plastics for crafting hotel furniture, a nod to the industry’s commitment to reducing waste and endorsing eco-friendly practices. The adoption of such materials reduces the environmental footprint and presents an opportunity for hotels to craft distinctive and alluring interior designs. Guests, too, are becoming increasingly appreciative of the narratives that accompany these furnishings, carrying with them a unique story of renewal and resourcefulness. This newfound synergy between aesthetics and environmental responsibility is reshaping the landscape of hospitality.

Community Engagement & Education

Sustainability transcends the confines of premises; forward-thinking establishments are actively engaging with the community while educating their guests on sustainable practices. This multi-faceted approach enriches the guest experience and fosters a relationship between the hotel and its community. These interactions can take shape in various ways, such as partnerships with eco-friendly artisans and sourcing food locally to reduce carbon footprint while contributing and empowering the community.

Hotels are increasingly offering eco-friendly excursions, encouraging guests to partake in nature-focused activities, enriching their experience and inspiring their sense of responsibility towards the environment.

Renewable Energy Sources

Renewable energy sources serve as a foundational element in the development of sustainable real estate. With the emergence of solar panels, wind turbines and geothermal systems, these have become intertwined into the fabric of hotel and resort facilities, marking a solid step away from the reliance on fossil fuels. By generating their own renewable energy, establishments trim operational costs and significantly reduce their carbon footprint.

Solar panel installations on rooftops or in parking areas emerge as powerful generators of clean electricity. Concurrently, some forward-thinking establishments are exploring the possibilities for wind turbines and geothermal heating and cooling systems to reduce their dependence on non-renewable energy. Such initiatives manifest as sustainable choices and sound financial strategies, illustrating the escalating potential of renewable energy.

Waste Reduction and Recycling

Innovative solutions extend to waste management, where hotels proactively reduce, recycle, and efficiently manage waste. Strategies include comprehensive recycling programs, organic waste composting, and collaboration with local initiatives for responsible waste disposal, contributing to environmental sustainability and the local community. By adopting a circular approach, hotels minimize landfill-bound waste and reduce the need for virgin resources in goods production, fostering a sustainable and economically sound future.

Conclusion

The shift to sustainability in the hospitality industry, driven by its environmental concerns and long-term strategic thinking, is transforming the sector. As travellers increasingly prioritize environmental issues, hotels and resorts are leading the way in sustainability, benefiting both the planet and their bottom line. Looking ahead, we anticipate a future enriched with more ground-breaking solutions to reshape the tourism sector even further, setting a sustainable precedent for the future. This journey is imperative in addressing global environmental challenges and meeting travellers’ eco-friendly expectations, promising a brighter, sustainable future for hospitality.

With gratitude to Anan Zeitoun, Director of Real Estate Advisory, and Haya Serhan, Consultant in Real Estate Advisory for their contributions.

Rani Majzoub

Head of Real Estate Advisory at KPMG Saudi, Head of Advisory at KPMG Lebanon.

اقرأ المزيد

Embracing Sustainability: Innovative Real Estate Solutions in the Hospitality Industry

Embracing Sustainability: Innovative Real Estate Solutions in the Hospitality Industry

By Rani Majzoub

The urgency to respond to climate change demands that all industries rethink and transform their practices and accelerate the shift to greater sustainability. The hospitality sector, historically singled out for its climate impact, is responding to this call and reimagining its foundations to embrace sustainable practices.

Innovative real estate solutions lie at the centre of this transformation. They are not merely a response to the growing environmental crisis but rather an embodiment of a commitment to reducing the industry’s ecological footprint whilst enhancing the guest experience. This article will delve into this profound shift, exploring the innovative measures shaping the future of hospitality and tourism, where sustainability and luxury harmoniously coexist.

Eco-friendly Building Design

Sustainable architecture is taking centre stage, with a visionary approach to building renovations. The adoption of eco-friendly designs exemplifies this shift, which prioritizes energy efficiency and environmental responsibility, encompassing a strategy ranging from incorporating renewable energy sources to efficient insulation and implementation of green roofs. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these roofs are meticulously engineered to curtail energy consumption and provide a unique selling point for eco-conscious travellers. From solar panel installation to rainwater harvesting systems, these developments are revolutionizing tourism’s relationship with the environment.

Smart Technologies

The integration of smart technologies marks an inflection point in sustainable hospitality real estate. Automation and sensor-based systems are effective tools for diminishing energy consumption, optimizing climate control, and enhancing security. Solutions such as key cards for room lighting and temperature control, alongside mobile apps for managing rooms, empower guests to participate in energy conservation. These technologies not only enhance guest experiences but also promote resource efficiency.

A notable example is the seamless integration of the Internet of Things (IoT) in hotel operations, allowing real-time adjustments of room conditions based on guest preferences and occupancy. This will elevate guest comfort to unprecedented heights and showcase the fusion of technology and sustainability as the future of hospitality real estate.

Water Conservation

Fresh water, a precious and finite resource, assumes even greater significance in regions grappling with water scarcity. In such places, the need to conserve water is imperative. Innovative real estate solutions involve water-efficient fixtures, including low-flow faucets, showerheads, and greywater recycling systems, serving the dual purpose of curtailing water consumption and mitigating the ecological repercussions of wastewater. A notable trend in the sector is the adoption of rainwater harvesting systems, which collect and store rainwater for uses such as irrigation, toilet flushing, and cooling systems. Through diminishing reliance on municipal water sources, hotels make meaningful contributions to water conservation while trimming utility bills, underscoring the intersection of ecological responsibility and cost-efficiency.

Sustainable Materials

From furniture décor to linens, the hospitality sector is witnessing a resounding shift towards sustainability. This transformative wave embraces the spirit of reuse and locality. Recycled, upcycled, and locally sourced materials are now finding their way into the heart of hospitality, reshaping the aesthetics and ethics of hospitality.

We can consider the choice of reclaimed wood or recycled plastics for crafting hotel furniture, a nod to the industry’s commitment to reducing waste and endorsing eco-friendly practices. The adoption of such materials reduces the environmental footprint and presents an opportunity for hotels to craft distinctive and alluring interior designs. Guests, too, are becoming increasingly appreciative of the narratives that accompany these furnishings, carrying with them a unique story of renewal and resourcefulness. This newfound synergy between aesthetics and environmental responsibility is reshaping the landscape of hospitality.

Community Engagement & Education

Sustainability transcends the confines of premises; forward-thinking establishments are actively engaging with the community while educating their guests on sustainable practices. This multi-faceted approach enriches the guest experience and fosters a relationship between the hotel and its community. These interactions can take shape in various ways, such as partnerships with eco-friendly artisans and sourcing food locally to reduce carbon footprint while contributing and empowering the community.

Hotels are increasingly offering eco-friendly excursions, encouraging guests to partake in nature-focused activities, enriching their experience and inspiring their sense of responsibility towards the environment.

Renewable Energy Sources

Renewable energy sources serve as a foundational element in the development of sustainable real estate. With the emergence of solar panels, wind turbines and geothermal systems, these have become intertwined into the fabric of hotel and resort facilities, marking a solid step away from the reliance on fossil fuels. By generating their own renewable energy, establishments trim operational costs and significantly reduce their carbon footprint.

Solar panel installations on rooftops or in parking areas emerge as powerful generators of clean electricity. Concurrently, some forward-thinking establishments are exploring the possibilities for wind turbines and geothermal heating and cooling systems to reduce their dependence on non-renewable energy. Such initiatives manifest as sustainable choices and sound financial strategies, illustrating the escalating potential of renewable energy.

Waste Reduction and Recycling

Innovative solutions extend to waste management, where hotels proactively reduce, recycle, and efficiently manage waste. Strategies include comprehensive recycling programs, organic waste composting, and collaboration with local initiatives for responsible waste disposal, contributing to environmental sustainability and the local community. By adopting a circular approach, hotels minimize landfill-bound waste and reduce the need for virgin resources in goods production, fostering a sustainable and economically sound future.

Conclusion

The shift to sustainability in the hospitality industry, driven by its environmental concerns and long-term strategic thinking, is transforming the sector. As travellers increasingly prioritize environmental issues, hotels and resorts are leading the way in sustainability, benefiting both the planet and their bottom line. Looking ahead, we anticipate a future enriched with more ground-breaking solutions to reshape the tourism sector even further, setting a sustainable precedent for the future. This journey is imperative in addressing global environmental challenges and meeting travellers’ eco-friendly expectations, promising a brighter, sustainable future for hospitality.

With gratitude to Anan Zeitoun, Director of Real Estate Advisory, and Haya Serhan, Consultant in Real Estate Advisory for their contributions.

Rani Majzoub

Head of Real Estate Advisory at KPMG Saudi, Head of Advisory at KPMG Lebanon.

اقرأ المزيد
Guaranteeing inclusion and diversity in travel advancements of the tourism sector

By Muzzammil Ahussain, CEO-Almosafer

In the dynamic realm of tourism, inclusion and diversity have emerged as the bedrock principles, shaping the sector’s present and future. This is clearly reflected in our work at Almosafer, as well as in the Saudi Vision 2030.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 is more than just an ambitious plan; it’s a robust testament to the nation’s drive for progress. With the target of creating one million jobs in the tourism sector by 2030, the roadmap is clear and based on a firm belief in the boundless potential of our youth. By nurturing their dreams and aspirations, we’re not just planting seeds for opportunities; we’re creating the blueprint for an inclusive and diverse tomorrow.

Educating the Next Generation through Almosafer Academy

The Almosafer Academy has been designed to offer Saudi nationals a well-balanced mix of theoretical education and real-world experiences. Through various sessions, workshops, and immersive trips, we are crafting a future where our travel experts not only understand the industry’s mechanics but also appreciate its diverse nuances.

Our enduring partnership with Princess Nourah University further underlines our commitment. By offering a seamless blend of academic instruction with practical insights, we’re sculpting a generation of tourism students who are not just educated but also enlightened. They will have the skills and experience tourism employers need and the soft skills tourists look for when traveling.

Almosafer’s Collaboration with the Human Resource Development Fund

Our recent partnership with the Human Resource Development Fund is another step forward in our journey to support and cultivate Saudi talent. This synergy not only underscores our commitment to nurturing talent but also reiterates the importance of private and public sector partnerships in achieving national goals.

Empowering Female Leaders: Pioneering a Change in the Middle East

Beyond the world of academia, our partnership with the UNWTO Women in Tech Startup Competition is empowering women techpreneurs across the region, above all by fostering an environment where women can innovate, lead, and redefine the tech landscape. Alongside this, the Unlock Her Future Prize by the Bicester Collection, which Almosafer is supporting and celebrating women entrepreneurs who drive change and make a positive impact on their communities.

Tourism and Its Societal Impacts

By guaranteeing inclusion and diversity in our operations, we’re not just facilitating travel; we’re fostering connections, understanding, and global unity. Moreover, the role of technology in achieving this cannot be understated. As digital advancements reshape how we travel, it’s vital that these technological strides resonate with our core values of inclusion and diversity. Almosafer invests heavily in ensuring that our digital platforms are intuitive, user-friendly, and accessible to all, regardless of background or ability.

In conclusion, the essence of travel is to experience the unknown, to immerse oneself in diverse cultures, traditions, and histories. At Almosafer, our vision is to ensure that every traveler feels represented, valued, and understood. As we stand on the cusp of a new dawn in tourism, let us remember our shared responsibilities. The true essence of tourism lies in an ecosystem where each individual, regardless of their background, finds a voice, and every journey becomes a testament to Saudi Arabia’s grander vision for the future.

Muzzammil Ahussain

Chief Executive Officer – Almosafer

اقرأ المزيد

Guaranteeing inclusion and diversity in travel advancements of the tourism sector

By Muzzammil Ahussain, CEO-Almosafer

In the dynamic realm of tourism, inclusion and diversity have emerged as the bedrock principles, shaping the sector’s present and future. This is clearly reflected in our work at Almosafer, as well as in the Saudi Vision 2030.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 is more than just an ambitious plan; it’s a robust testament to the nation’s drive for progress. With the target of creating one million jobs in the tourism sector by 2030, the roadmap is clear and based on a firm belief in the boundless potential of our youth. By nurturing their dreams and aspirations, we’re not just planting seeds for opportunities; we’re creating the blueprint for an inclusive and diverse tomorrow.

Educating the Next Generation through Almosafer Academy

The Almosafer Academy has been designed to offer Saudi nationals a well-balanced mix of theoretical education and real-world experiences. Through various sessions, workshops, and immersive trips, we are crafting a future where our travel experts not only understand the industry’s mechanics but also appreciate its diverse nuances.

Our enduring partnership with Princess Nourah University further underlines our commitment. By offering a seamless blend of academic instruction with practical insights, we’re sculpting a generation of tourism students who are not just educated but also enlightened. They will have the skills and experience tourism employers need and the soft skills tourists look for when traveling.

Almosafer’s Collaboration with the Human Resource Development Fund

Our recent partnership with the Human Resource Development Fund is another step forward in our journey to support and cultivate Saudi talent. This synergy not only underscores our commitment to nurturing talent but also reiterates the importance of private and public sector partnerships in achieving national goals.

Empowering Female Leaders: Pioneering a Change in the Middle East

Beyond the world of academia, our partnership with the UNWTO Women in Tech Startup Competition is empowering women techpreneurs across the region, above all by fostering an environment where women can innovate, lead, and redefine the tech landscape. Alongside this, the Unlock Her Future Prize by the Bicester Collection, which Almosafer is supporting and celebrating women entrepreneurs who drive change and make a positive impact on their communities.

Tourism and Its Societal Impacts

By guaranteeing inclusion and diversity in our operations, we’re not just facilitating travel; we’re fostering connections, understanding, and global unity. Moreover, the role of technology in achieving this cannot be understated. As digital advancements reshape how we travel, it’s vital that these technological strides resonate with our core values of inclusion and diversity. Almosafer invests heavily in ensuring that our digital platforms are intuitive, user-friendly, and accessible to all, regardless of background or ability.

In conclusion, the essence of travel is to experience the unknown, to immerse oneself in diverse cultures, traditions, and histories. At Almosafer, our vision is to ensure that every traveler feels represented, valued, and understood. As we stand on the cusp of a new dawn in tourism, let us remember our shared responsibilities. The true essence of tourism lies in an ecosystem where each individual, regardless of their background, finds a voice, and every journey becomes a testament to Saudi Arabia’s grander vision for the future.

Muzzammil Ahussain

Chief Executive Officer – Almosafer

اقرأ المزيد
El Impacto del Turismo y la Importancia de su Talento Humano

El Impacto del Turismo y la Importancia de su Talento Humano

Cuando los cambios tocan a nuestra puerta, no queda más que buscar herramientas o mecanismos para abordarlos con el fin de mejorar la manera en que hemos venido haciendo las cosas. Esta fue la invitación que tan abruptamente le hizo la pandemia al mundo entero.

En Chile, de acuerdo a datos del Instituto Nacional de Estadísticas (INE), la mayor pérdida de empleos en turismo se reflejó en el trimestre mayo-junio-julio de 2020, pasando de tener 651.797 puestos de trabajo en ese mismo trimestre de 2019 a 369.520.

Estos datos equivalen a una pérdida del 43,3% de los puestos de trabajo, lo que de manera inmediata, mostró los efectos de la pandemia en el país, pero que una vez terminadas las restricciones sanitarias comenzaron a revertirse. Según los últimos reportes del trimestre móvil abril-mayo-junio 2023 se han recuperado un 94,1% de los empleos, faltando sólo 37.690 para alcanzar las cifras prepandemia.

Lo interesante de este proceso de reactivación del empleo, es que ha venido de la mano de un cambio de visión y de una oportunidad para repensar el talento humano que conforma el turismo, la hotelería y la gastronomía. Es así como desde la Subsecretaría de Turismo de Chile hemos transitado hacia la perspectiva del “nuevo capital humano” (Brown), paradigma con el que esperamos ampliar dicho concepto, desde una visión únicamente económica que contempla un conjunto de conocimientos, habilidades y aprendizajes que cuentan los colaboradores de una organización (Adam Smith) hacia un concepto de talento humano que englobe el proceso de desarrollo personal como un proceso integral.

Y considerando que el turismo es un sector económico por naturaleza, con un fuerte enfoque en lo humano y cercano, es que ha emergido con mayor fuerza la necesidad de potenciar las llamadas “habilidades para la vida” o “habilidades socioemocionales”, en quienes dan vida al sector: sus trabajadoras y trabajadores. La proactividad, la comunicación efectiva, el trabajo en equipo son elementos, que no siendo conocimientos técnicos, permiten un desarrollo efectivo de las funciones asociadas a la entrega de servicios turísticos y con ello, otorgan garantía de calidad a las experiencias vividas por los visitantes. Por lo tanto, su incorporación en el quehacer de cada una de las personas que forman parte de la cadena de valor del sector es uno de los principales desafíos.

Las oportunidades y desafíos son múltiples, el impacto del desarrollo turístico en el mundo depende de muchos factores, pero el factor humano jamás dejará de ser su eje central. Si lo humano no es abordado de manera eficiente y eficaz, el aporte social, cultural y económico que trae consigo el desarrollo de esta industria no verá la luz y, es precisamente en esta línea, que Chile ha trabajado en la definición de un Plan Estratégico de Capital Humano de Turismo 2023-2026 para abordar las diversas dimensiones que tiene una temática tan relevante como esta.

De este modo el Plan Estratégico de Capital Humano de Turismo 2023-2026 busca recoger todos aquellos aprendizajes y desafíos post pandemia para poner el foco en tres principales elementos a abordar durante los próximos cuatro años: Empleo, Estándares para el Ecosistema Turístico y Formación y Desarrollo de talento.

Cada uno de los ejes estratégicos definidos, dan cuenta de elementos fundamentales para avanzar hacia la profesionalización del sector, así el eje EMPLEO buscará fomentar mejores condiciones laborales y políticas de contratación. El eje ESTÁNDARES PARA LA INDUSTRIA TURÍSTICA impulsará la asociatividad con foco en la competitividad del sector, para ofrecer una mejor calidad en la entrega de servicios turísticos. Y el eje FORMACIÓN Y DESARROLLO DE TALENTO trabajara para fortalecer las cualificaciones y habilidades a nivel técnico, de idiomas y socioemocionales de quienes forman parte de la industria.

Sin duda este instrumento encarna, como se menciona al comienzo de este artículo, una herramienta para abordar las necesidades y cambios de capital humano en el sector turismo y si bien, el contenido del documento resulta fundamental para la implementación de la política pública, lo es mucho más el modelo de trabajo publico privado a partir del cual fue construido: la gobernanza que representa la Mesa Nacional de Capital Humano de Turismo. Es esta gobernanza la que impulsará cada una de las iniciativas identificadas como necesarias para mejorar las brechas de capital humano del sector y no solo por estar contenidas en un documento público, sino más bien por el sentido de pertenencia que le otorga haber sido parte fundamental de la construcción del instrumento.

Muchos han sido los aprendizajes que hemos acuñado los últimos años, y las medidas que hemos implementado están surtiendo efectos positivos, así lo demuestran los datos de empleo, pero sin duda, el mayor de los aprendizajes es más bien, seguir trabajando sin perder el foco en lo importante, las personas.

Marcella Mansilla

Encargada de Capital Humano y Género

Ministerio de Economía, Fomento y Turismo Subsecretaría de Turismo, Gobierno de Chile

اقرأ المزيد

El Impacto del Turismo y la Importancia de su Talento Humano

El Impacto del Turismo y la Importancia de su Talento Humano

Cuando los cambios tocan a nuestra puerta, no queda más que buscar herramientas o mecanismos para abordarlos con el fin de mejorar la manera en que hemos venido haciendo las cosas. Esta fue la invitación que tan abruptamente le hizo la pandemia al mundo entero.

En Chile, de acuerdo a datos del Instituto Nacional de Estadísticas (INE), la mayor pérdida de empleos en turismo se reflejó en el trimestre mayo-junio-julio de 2020, pasando de tener 651.797 puestos de trabajo en ese mismo trimestre de 2019 a 369.520.

Estos datos equivalen a una pérdida del 43,3% de los puestos de trabajo, lo que de manera inmediata, mostró los efectos de la pandemia en el país, pero que una vez terminadas las restricciones sanitarias comenzaron a revertirse. Según los últimos reportes del trimestre móvil abril-mayo-junio 2023 se han recuperado un 94,1% de los empleos, faltando sólo 37.690 para alcanzar las cifras prepandemia.

Lo interesante de este proceso de reactivación del empleo, es que ha venido de la mano de un cambio de visión y de una oportunidad para repensar el talento humano que conforma el turismo, la hotelería y la gastronomía. Es así como desde la Subsecretaría de Turismo de Chile hemos transitado hacia la perspectiva del “nuevo capital humano” (Brown), paradigma con el que esperamos ampliar dicho concepto, desde una visión únicamente económica que contempla un conjunto de conocimientos, habilidades y aprendizajes que cuentan los colaboradores de una organización (Adam Smith) hacia un concepto de talento humano que englobe el proceso de desarrollo personal como un proceso integral.

Y considerando que el turismo es un sector económico por naturaleza, con un fuerte enfoque en lo humano y cercano, es que ha emergido con mayor fuerza la necesidad de potenciar las llamadas “habilidades para la vida” o “habilidades socioemocionales”, en quienes dan vida al sector: sus trabajadoras y trabajadores. La proactividad, la comunicación efectiva, el trabajo en equipo son elementos, que no siendo conocimientos técnicos, permiten un desarrollo efectivo de las funciones asociadas a la entrega de servicios turísticos y con ello, otorgan garantía de calidad a las experiencias vividas por los visitantes. Por lo tanto, su incorporación en el quehacer de cada una de las personas que forman parte de la cadena de valor del sector es uno de los principales desafíos.

Las oportunidades y desafíos son múltiples, el impacto del desarrollo turístico en el mundo depende de muchos factores, pero el factor humano jamás dejará de ser su eje central. Si lo humano no es abordado de manera eficiente y eficaz, el aporte social, cultural y económico que trae consigo el desarrollo de esta industria no verá la luz y, es precisamente en esta línea, que Chile ha trabajado en la definición de un Plan Estratégico de Capital Humano de Turismo 2023-2026 para abordar las diversas dimensiones que tiene una temática tan relevante como esta.

De este modo el Plan Estratégico de Capital Humano de Turismo 2023-2026 busca recoger todos aquellos aprendizajes y desafíos post pandemia para poner el foco en tres principales elementos a abordar durante los próximos cuatro años: Empleo, Estándares para el Ecosistema Turístico y Formación y Desarrollo de talento.

Cada uno de los ejes estratégicos definidos, dan cuenta de elementos fundamentales para avanzar hacia la profesionalización del sector, así el eje EMPLEO buscará fomentar mejores condiciones laborales y políticas de contratación. El eje ESTÁNDARES PARA LA INDUSTRIA TURÍSTICA impulsará la asociatividad con foco en la competitividad del sector, para ofrecer una mejor calidad en la entrega de servicios turísticos. Y el eje FORMACIÓN Y DESARROLLO DE TALENTO trabajara para fortalecer las cualificaciones y habilidades a nivel técnico, de idiomas y socioemocionales de quienes forman parte de la industria.

Sin duda este instrumento encarna, como se menciona al comienzo de este artículo, una herramienta para abordar las necesidades y cambios de capital humano en el sector turismo y si bien, el contenido del documento resulta fundamental para la implementación de la política pública, lo es mucho más el modelo de trabajo publico privado a partir del cual fue construido: la gobernanza que representa la Mesa Nacional de Capital Humano de Turismo. Es esta gobernanza la que impulsará cada una de las iniciativas identificadas como necesarias para mejorar las brechas de capital humano del sector y no solo por estar contenidas en un documento público, sino más bien por el sentido de pertenencia que le otorga haber sido parte fundamental de la construcción del instrumento.

Muchos han sido los aprendizajes que hemos acuñado los últimos años, y las medidas que hemos implementado están surtiendo efectos positivos, así lo demuestran los datos de empleo, pero sin duda, el mayor de los aprendizajes es más bien, seguir trabajando sin perder el foco en lo importante, las personas.

Marcella Mansilla

Encargada de Capital Humano y Género

Ministerio de Economía, Fomento y Turismo Subsecretaría de Turismo, Gobierno de Chile

اقرأ المزيد
Omnichannel, An Integral Experience

Omnichannel, An Integral Experience

By

Luis Enrique Silva Gaona

Who hasn’t experienced the following? You are planning to travel, so you investigate the location, distance, culture, money you will spend and even the type of currency they use. You find an incredible discounted package online, but your card is declined, and with the online channel not accepting other means of payment, the only solution is to visit a travel agency and buy it in person.

Here, the travel consultant mentions the tour package they are looking for is ONLY available through the digital channel which, apart from the initial displeasure, generates questions such as: Why does the discount only apply online? Why are they promoting something only available through other means? This story ends with no trip and the travel agency losing a potential client, who could have also been a spokesperson for the services offered.

The questions asked by the client have a common solution: Omnichannel Strategy.

An omnichannel strategy allows companies to be interconnected through different communication channels, in order to benefit from a comprehensive experience. For a travel agency, omnichannel allows them to offer the same experience whether from a website, mobile device or in person with the travel agent. For David Owen , COO of Flight Centre, the challenge of implementing an omnichannel strategy is to “ensure that the customer has the same experience regardless of the communication medium applied.” The key point of this strategy for any company in the travel industry that wishes to employ it is to put the customer above the product or service, and so become a “Customer-Centric” company.

Let’s go back to the previous scenario and solve the two questions:

1) Why did the discount only apply on the online channel?

This happened because the travel agency applied a multichannel strategy, in which the promotional channels (web, app, social networks, face-to-face consulting) are disconnected. This means that once the customer begins their purchase through a specific channel, he/she must finish the process through that same channel. The omnichannel approach solves this problem by giving responsibility to the travel agent, offering them the ability to complete the customer’s purchase process from the workplace with no setbacks.

2) Why promote something you cannot sell by other means?

A common strategy of companies is to promote their products or services in different ways through different communication channels. However, this should not be an impediment for the customer if he/she wishes to purchase the same thing through another channel. An example of this is Apple, where products hosted in its digital catalog can be purchased from any physical store, even if the product is not in stock at the store visited. This is possible thanks to a blended approach to technology and humans, where Apple advisors use tablets to view the company’s product catalog and find the one the customer needs.

According to the Amadeus research report “Omnichannel – A source of differentiation in the new reality,” travelers want to have contact at similar levels through social networks, chats, phone, and personal advice. In addition, they want to have a higher level of integration in communication channels, starting with a chatbot or Facebook and continuing by phone, understanding as key points for the customer the choice and adaptability to their preferences.

So, how can we start adopting an omnichannel strategy in our company? For Amadeus, this can be achieved through a three-step approach:

– Get to know your traveler at every stage of their journey, identifying their hidden needs.

– Design the customer experience, tailoring the value proposition of each channel to the customer base.

– Establish the data infrastructure and operating model, implementing and integrating the data platform with a unified customer ID.

Such an approach will make for more efficient companies, and happier travellers.

Luis Enrique Silva Gaona

Lead Consultant – Tourism Innovation Consulting (www.ticconsultora.com.co)

Tourism Specialist | E-Learning & Development

Bogota, Colombia

اقرأ المزيد

Omnichannel, An Integral Experience

Omnichannel, An Integral Experience

By

Luis Enrique Silva Gaona

Who hasn’t experienced the following? You are planning to travel, so you investigate the location, distance, culture, money you will spend and even the type of currency they use. You find an incredible discounted package online, but your card is declined, and with the online channel not accepting other means of payment, the only solution is to visit a travel agency and buy it in person.

Here, the travel consultant mentions the tour package they are looking for is ONLY available through the digital channel which, apart from the initial displeasure, generates questions such as: Why does the discount only apply online? Why are they promoting something only available through other means? This story ends with no trip and the travel agency losing a potential client, who could have also been a spokesperson for the services offered.

The questions asked by the client have a common solution: Omnichannel Strategy.

An omnichannel strategy allows companies to be interconnected through different communication channels, in order to benefit from a comprehensive experience. For a travel agency, omnichannel allows them to offer the same experience whether from a website, mobile device or in person with the travel agent. For David Owen , COO of Flight Centre, the challenge of implementing an omnichannel strategy is to “ensure that the customer has the same experience regardless of the communication medium applied.” The key point of this strategy for any company in the travel industry that wishes to employ it is to put the customer above the product or service, and so become a “Customer-Centric” company.

Let’s go back to the previous scenario and solve the two questions:

1) Why did the discount only apply on the online channel?

This happened because the travel agency applied a multichannel strategy, in which the promotional channels (web, app, social networks, face-to-face consulting) are disconnected. This means that once the customer begins their purchase through a specific channel, he/she must finish the process through that same channel. The omnichannel approach solves this problem by giving responsibility to the travel agent, offering them the ability to complete the customer’s purchase process from the workplace with no setbacks.

2) Why promote something you cannot sell by other means?

A common strategy of companies is to promote their products or services in different ways through different communication channels. However, this should not be an impediment for the customer if he/she wishes to purchase the same thing through another channel. An example of this is Apple, where products hosted in its digital catalog can be purchased from any physical store, even if the product is not in stock at the store visited. This is possible thanks to a blended approach to technology and humans, where Apple advisors use tablets to view the company’s product catalog and find the one the customer needs.

According to the Amadeus research report “Omnichannel – A source of differentiation in the new reality,” travelers want to have contact at similar levels through social networks, chats, phone, and personal advice. In addition, they want to have a higher level of integration in communication channels, starting with a chatbot or Facebook and continuing by phone, understanding as key points for the customer the choice and adaptability to their preferences.

So, how can we start adopting an omnichannel strategy in our company? For Amadeus, this can be achieved through a three-step approach:

– Get to know your traveler at every stage of their journey, identifying their hidden needs.

– Design the customer experience, tailoring the value proposition of each channel to the customer base.

– Establish the data infrastructure and operating model, implementing and integrating the data platform with a unified customer ID.

Such an approach will make for more efficient companies, and happier travellers.

Luis Enrique Silva Gaona

Lead Consultant – Tourism Innovation Consulting (www.ticconsultora.com.co)

Tourism Specialist | E-Learning & Development

Bogota, Colombia

اقرأ المزيد

The Role of Women in Tourism

The Role of Women in Tourism

BY

Jussara Pellicano Botelho – CEO at Sisterwave

Jussara Pellicano Botelho CEO at Sisterwave

Visit the course

The Media’s Growing Role in Education

The Media’s Growing Role in Education

Crisis Management in Tourism

Crisis Management in Tourism

Integrating tourism and hospitality curricula in high schools with AHLEI

Why Introduce Tourism and Hospitality to School-Age Students?

Implementing the HTM Curriculum

Organization

Coverage

Teacher Support

Hospitality and Tourism Specialist Credential

Key Themes and Learning Objectives

Career Readiness and Technical Skills

Global Awareness

Application

Endorsements and Formal Recognition

Expand Your Horizons with HTM

Integrating tourism and hospitality curricula in high schools with AHLEI

Why Introduce Tourism and Hospitality to School-Age Students?

Implementing the HTM Curriculum

Organization

Coverage

Teacher Support

Hospitality and Tourism Specialist Credential

Key Themes and Learning Objectives

Career Readiness and Technical Skills

Global Awareness

Application

Endorsements and Formal Recognition

Expand Your Horizons with HTM