The Austrian National Tourist Office (Österreich Werbung) recently sponsored a landmark event in Linz, Austria – the GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training.
This initiative, held over two days from November 9 to November 10, 2023, represents a significant stride in Austria’s commitment to sustainable tourism practices.
The training, conducted in German, was not just an educational endeavor but a transformative experience for the participants. Led by esteemed GSTC Trainers Dr. Michaela Hölz and Holger Sigmund, the two-day session was a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical insights. The trainers, with their profound expertise, provided a comprehensive understanding of sustainable tourism, underpinned by practical examples and valuable insights.
Dr. Hölz, expressing her views on the training, highlighted the enthusiasm and commitment of the participants. “Nurturing a passion for sustainable tourism, my role as a GSTC trainer allowed me to witness the genuine enthusiasm of participants. Together, we explored the fascinating landscape of sustainable practices in tourism. With the support of our valuable partner, the Austrian National Tourist Office (ÖW), it’s evident that Austria’s tourism is on an excellent trajectory — one that’s not only promising but already making commendable strides towards a more sustainable and responsible future,” she said.
The GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training provided an in-depth exploration of the GSTC Criteria, which are the global standards for sustainability in tourism and travel. The inclusion of global and local case studies significantly enhanced the value of the training, making it relevant and applicable to the real-world scenarios faced by tourism professionals.
This training was more than just an educational course; it was a call to action for all participants to become champions of sustainable tourism practices. The knowledge and skills imparted during the session equipped the attendees with the tools necessary to make a positive impact in their respective roles within the tourism industry.
Upon successful completion of the course, participants received a certificate of completion, acknowledging their understanding and commitment to sustainable tourism practices. Furthermore, they became eligible to take an optional official exam to obtain the GSTC Professional Certificate in Sustainable Tourism, a testament to their expertise in this critical field.
The GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training in Linz is a testament to the Austrian National Tourist Office’s commitment to sustainability. It represents a significant step forward in Austria’s journey towards a more sustainable and responsible tourism industry, setting a benchmark for other nations to follow.
Following the success of the Sustainable Tourism Training in Linz, the next significant event on the calendar is the GSTC Auditor Training, scheduled from February 29 to March 2, 2024. This training will take place at the Ramada Plaza By Wyndham İstanbul City Center, located in the heart of Şişli, İstanbul, Türkiye. Conducted in English, with Turkish translation provided, this training focuses on the GSTC Industry Criteria specifically tailored for hotels and tour operators. The GSTC Auditor Training is not just a learning session but an immersive experience that includes a detailed class and two rigorous tests. Participants will delve deep into the GSTC Industry Criteria, learning about the audit process and the key issues auditors must be vigilant about, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of sustainable practices in the tourism industry.
