Regional Development, Sustainability, and the Next Generation Proceedings of the 8th International Research Forum on Guided Tours, Bolzano/Bozen 28-30 May 2024

The 8th International Research Forum on Guided Tours (IRFGT) 2024 explored how guided tours can adapt to current challenges like climate change, overtourism, technological shifts, and labor shortage. Held in South Tyrol, Italy, this year’s Forum gathered researchers, tourist guides, and industry stakeholders to examine the role of tour guiding in fostering sustainability, regional development, and in addressing future workforce needs. Key discussions emphasized the importance of ongoing education for tour guides to meet evolving tourist expectations, highlighting their role as cultural intermediaries and advocates for responsible travel. With participants from 14 countries, the IRFGT’s agenda included workshops and case studies that revealed innovative practices such as ecological urban trekking and online guided tours. Sessions addressed sustainable tourism, heritage interpretation, and new guiding methods, while spotlighting the next generation of tour guides and the need for attractive career pathways. Founded in 2009, the IRFGT aims to deepen the understanding and significance of guided tours within the tourism industry worldwide.

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