INNOVANDO EN TURISMO DIGITAL

The project's main objective is to strengthen the tourism sector's resilience and sustainability through three strategic elements: digital transformation, environmental care, and flexibility in pr...

The project's main objective is to strengthen the tourism sector's resilience and sustainability through three strategic elements: digital transformation, environmental care, and flexibility in professional training. First, we seek to increase the digital capabilities of tourism professionals, promoting the use of technological tools to offer safe and sustainable experiences. Likewise, the aim is to increase the adoption of innovative digital practices that improve connectivity and facilitate the transition to smarter tourist destinations. Regarding caring for the environment, the project focuses on sensitizing interested parties to the benefits of sustainable tourism and fomenting a cultural change in commercial operations, integrating sustainability as an essential value. Finally, we seek to expand the opportunities for professional training (VET) through practical materials and a manual of good practices, helping professionals to adapt to the new demands of the tourism market with digital and sustainable skills.

During the implementation of the project, different activities were carried out that contributed to the achievement of the planned objectives. We begin with a virtual launch meeting (Transnational Project Meeting 1) which allows us to plan the initial phases of the project. Subsequently, the members participated in a second transnational meeting in Malta, organized by Training Opportunities in Malta, where an intermediate evaluation was carried out and workshops focused on smart tourism practices and professional training were held. Marcopolo (Italy) developed a collection of successful practices in smart tourism and launched a digital platform to promote more sustainable tourism. Ruga Travel (España) is responsible for the creation of a practical manual entitled 'Turismo SMART', proposing concrete tools for professionals in the sector. Furthermore, promotional campaigns for innovative tourist destinations were raised and a third mobility meeting event was celebrated, which functioned as the final evaluation in November 2024. All these activities were managed by Ruga Travel, which will lead the coordination of the project and guarantee adequate follow-up of each phase.

The project produced tangible results that strengthened the skills and sustainability of the tourism sector in socio-economic countries. First, the participants significantly improved their digital skills, which allowed them to adopt innovative tools to develop smarter and more sustainable tourism. They also gained current knowledge about green consumption practices, encouraging the promotion of local products and destinations in a responsible manner. Another important result was the creation of specific tools such as the Manual of Sustainable Tourism Practices and the project website, which served as a continuous dissemination and training platform for interested parties in Spain, Malta and Italy. Similarly, participatory participants promoted interaction between tourism professionals, increasing the awareness of sustainability and social responsibility of the organizations. Ultimately, the project stimulated a cultural change towards more sustainable, digitalized and compromised tourism with local economic development and the preservation of the environment.