The students from Varna University of Management recently took part in the Blended Intensive Programme “Experiential Sustainable Tourist Guiding”, hosted by the Institute of Tourism Studies in Malta within the Erasmus+ framework.
The programme provided an opportunity to develop academic knowledge of sustainable tourism, cultural heritage preservation, community engagement, and responsible destination management.
Reflecting on the experience, Elger Barral shared:
“Participating in the BIP week in Malta was an enriching and transformative experience. Throughout the programme, I learned how sustainable tourism can protect cultural heritage, support local communities, and create meaningful visitor experiences.”
The student also highlighted the importance of applying academic concepts in a real tourism destination:
“Malta itself left a strong impression on me because of its history, hospitality, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant culture. I now better understand how tourism can balance economic development with cultural and environmental preservation. This BIP experience motivated me to continue learning about sustainable tourism and to become a more responsible traveller in the future.”
Participation in the BIPs enables VUM students to expand their academic knowledge, experience different cultural contexts, and develop a more responsible and sustainable approach to tourism.
