The Observatory for Tourism on Lake Garda (O.T.G.), established through the collaboration between the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart and the Garda Community, has emerged in recent years as a reference point for studying and developing tourism dynamics on Lake Garda. Among the main initiatives promoted by the O.T.G., the Grand Tour stands out as a project aimed at deepening the analysis of post-pandemic tourism, contributing to the formulation of future development strategies for the area.
The Grand Tour: An Analysis of Post-Pandemic Tourism
The Grand Tour represents one of the most significant activities promoted by the O.T.G. Initially launched as a qualitative investigation into the post-COVID tourist profile, the project has engaged key players in the Garda tourism sector, aiming to better understand the transformations and emerging trends. Following the success of the first two editions, the Grand Tour 2024 will mark the third edition of this initiative, reaffirming its status as a central event for those operating in the tourism sector.
Focus on Emerging Tourism
The third edition of the Grand Tour will focus on analyzing emerging tourism, with particular attention to the American, Arab, and Chinese tourist markets. These market segments are becoming increasingly significant for Lake Garda, which is establishing itself as an international destination. Through this project, the O.T.G. aims to analyze the preferences and needs of these new tourist flows, providing useful tools for local operators to adapt their offering strategies.
Support for Tourism Development
The Grand Tour is part of a broader framework of initiatives undertaken by the O.T.G. to promote a cohesive and innovative vision of Garda tourism. In addition to research activities, the Observatory has organized training events such as the Summer School on Luxury Tourism, aimed at both students and entrepreneurs, with the goal of providing advanced skills and fostering dialogue among sector stakeholders.
The 2024 edition of the Grand Tour includes a detailed itinerary divided into three meetings, each dedicated to the main emerging tourist markets influencing the Garda area: American, Arab, and Chinese. These events represent a unique opportunity to better understand the expectations and needs of these new visitors, fostering a dialogue between scholars and local operators.
The Meetings of the Grand Tour 2024
On September 28, in Gardone Riviera at the Wimmer Palace, the first meeting on American tourism will take place. Professor Amanda Clare Murphy from the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart will address the topic “Admiring, Eating, Toasting: The Authenticity Desired by American Tourists“. The meeting will be followed by a visit to the Heller Botanical Garden.
On October 5, in Nago – Torbole, at the ex Colonia Pavese Hall, the focus will be on Arab tourism. Professor Wael Farouq will delve into the topic “The Thousand and One Nights: Cultural Hospitality for Arab Tourists“. This event will also include an excursion with a visit to the Archaeological Park.
The series of meetings will conclude on October 12, in Lazise, at the Chiesetta di San Nicolò, with a discussion on Chinese tourism. Professor Paolo De Giovanni will present on “Discovering Hot Water: Cultural Factors in Welcoming Chinese Tourists“. The day will continue with a tour of the Lazise town center and the Venetian Customs House.
This edition of the Grand Tour represents an important initiative for knowledge and in-depth analysis of the area, providing a comprehensive view of the tourists who choose Lake Garda, their cultures, and their interests.
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