Successfully completed was the Interpretation of Resources and Creative Tourism Seminar, organized within the framework of the implementation of the transnational project Enhancement of European Rural Development Capabilities – ENERDECA II.

Successfully completed was the Interpretation of Resources and Creative Tourism Seminar, organized within the framework of the implementation of the transnational project Enhancement of European Rural Development Capabilities – ENERDECA II.

The Kavala Development Agency successfully completed the Resource Interpretation and Creative Tourism Seminar (action 2.2) on March 9 and 10, 2024, at the GALAXY hotel. The seminar was implemented within the framework of the transnational project Enhancement of European Rural Development Capabilities – ENERDECA II.

The seminar served as an important meeting platform for tourism professionals and creators, bringing together representatives from various sectors to discuss the potential of Creative Tourism in the region. The process for the participants was rich and multifaceted. Initially, the LEADER program and the ENERDECA project were presented, with detailed descriptions of the actions they encompass. An extensive discussion was held about Creative Tourism, the local community, and the cultural life of a place, exploring how these elements meet authenticity through a traveler’s perspective.

Following this, the CREATOUR organization was introduced, focusing on Creative Tourism and providing examples and best practices from the international environment. This was particularly useful for understanding how creative tourism can enhance the local economy and offer unique experiences to visitors.

The entertaining and engaging part of the process included networking and ice-breaking activities among the participants, utilizing a ball of string to create a friendly and open atmosphere that promoted the exchange of ideas and experiences. This demonstrated each participant’s willingness to contribute to the network. Subsequently, the participants had the opportunity to present their ideas through six items they had brought with them, then chose a Creative Tourism action and created a Business Model Canvas which they later presented.

Additionally, the next step of the project was discussed, which involves the pilot testing of these actions in each participant’s area within the current year and the creation of a network of Creative Tourism professionals in the Kavala region. This network will connect with networks of other partners participating in the project. This innovative step is expected to contribute to the development of new approaches in tourism and strengthen the local economy.

After the seminar, participants exchanged views and recorded conclusions for further development and implementation of the ideas generated.

Participant feedback clearly highlighted the importance and value of the seminar. Stella Fournaraki, Artistic Director of DIKEΘ Municipality of Thassos, expressed her joy at connecting with interesting and creative people, while Natasha Michailidou, a tour guide, appreciated the opportunity to learn from experiences and ideas that took her a step further in her work. Yannis Kotziapanagiotis, an artist, noted the positive atmosphere and the opportunity to meet new people who share his passion and concerns. Finally, Youli Kritharelli, a representative of the Museum of Refugee Hellenism, highlighted the optimism and hope for a better future in all sectors, emphasizing the excellent organization and the international perspective offered by the seminar.

In conclusion, the feedback gathered from the seminar underscores the significance of the project and its actions as a platform for exchanging ideas, creating networks, and enhancing action in the fields of Tourism and Culture.