business tourism destination management

UN Tourism | Bringing the world closer

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• A Practical Guide to Tourism Destination Management

This publication represents a major contribution to developing professionalism in the field of destination management. It is intended as a practical guide, showing how concepts of destination management may be translated into practice. Besides it will be of considerable interest to academics as we acknowledge the work of other experts and academic leaders who have contributed to the field of destination management. As the main purpose of Destination Management Organisations is to attract people to visit in the first place, this practical guide will explain through models, guidelines and snapshot case studies how to create a suitable environment and quality delivery on the ground and how to ensure that visitors’ expectations are met at the destination.

ISBN : 978-92-844-1243-3

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What is Destination Management and Why is it Important

What is destination management?

Stats about destination management, what is the importance of destination management, what is the difference between destination marketing and destination management, what is the function of a destination management company, best practices in destination management, real-life examples of destination management that used best practices, conclusion .

Destination management plays a vital role in helping organizations in the travel and tourism industry achieve their goals . It can unlock many benefits, such as delighting the travelers so they return to the destination, increasing revenue, and building a sustainable plan for the future.

However, the term destination management still escapes many people. Given how important it is, we wanted to help you understand the definition of destination management . We even went one step further and refined a list of the most important stats, best practices, and real-life case studies .

Before we define destination management, we have to define a destination. A destination can be anything, including a country, region, province, district, city, park, museum, neighborhood, etc . Destination management is a comprehensive process that includes the management of different aspects of the destination.

Destination management can include anything of the following:

• Local resources
• Accommodation
• Events & activities
• Environmental concerns
• Marketing efforts
• Transportation
• Tourist attractions

Destination management can also include local businesses and leverage local knowledge to help create immersive experiences and attract even more travelers to visit the destination . Every destination management system (DMS) is unique. Some may focus on local resources and accommodation, while others can focus on tourist attractions, events, and activities.

The most important stat for assessing the success of a destination management strategy is the length of stay or LOS. LOS is a parameter that shows you the ratio of the number of guests and the number of total arrivals . A recent study assessed and compared LOS across 32 destinations worldwide, including well-developed destinations and those in emerging economies. 

The global trend of LOS is falling by almost 15%. There is one exemption, though – the LOS of individual destination countries is increasing.  

Next, we have the noteworthy change in how destination management organizations (DMO) approach destination management. Over 50% of these organizations will enlarge their scope. They are no longer only focused on brand promotion and traditional marketing – DMOs are shifting toward enhancing the sustainability of destinations and their overall competitiveness . 

It goes in line with the fact that over 50% of global travelers want to travel more sustainably, and almost 70% expect to see more sustainable tourism options the travel industry offers . Furthermore, over 60% of travelers want to contribute to supporting the destination’s recovery efforts. 

Destination management is vital for several reasons as it benefits the entire area defined as a ‘destination’. Many people only see the benefit of tourists bringing more money to the destination. However, this is only one side-benefit of a well-planned and executed destination management strategy.

Destination management can help attract sponsors and investors. This financial injection can help local businesses to grow and thrive . Thanks to this cash, the villages and towns in the area can be revitalized . The surplus of money can help revitalize the economy of an entire region or even an entire country. 

Since destination management adds value to a destination, we are talking about a long-term effect. It simply means the destination and country it’s in will continue to reap these benefits in the foreseeable future. 

Destination marketing and destination management can not be used interchangeably as these are two completely different things. As previously stated, destination management refers to managing different elements found in one destination. On the most basic level, these elements include physical locations, people, products, and services.

However, when you combine these elements, you have the attractions, transportation, accommodation, and hospitality of a destination. The role of destination management is to manage these elements and ensure sustainability and consistency in the travel experience. 

Destination marketing is one of the most important elements of destination management too . In other words, destination management has to encompass destination marketing as a strategy. Destination marketing aims to inform potential visitors about the destination by focusing on communicating its values. Ultimately, it has to be able to persuade travelers to visit it. 

Before you work with a DMC, you need to know what it is. The best way to understand the function of a destination management company (DMC) is to know what this management organization stands for.

Gain a richer perspective on the pivotal roles and advantages of Destination Management Companies in the tourism sector. This article delves into the operational nuances of these companies, shedding light on their integral part in shaping travel experiences.

DMC is a for-profit tourism business that can offer various services to groups and individual travelers. These services range from meeting your travel and accommodation needs to meeting your entertainment and leisure interests. 

DMCs have extensive knowledge of the destination and resources and are well connected with local businesses. It enables these organizations to coordinate and implement anything found on their travel options and itineraries. Not all DMCs are the same, which makes their specific functions vary. 

For instance, a DMC can specialize in program design and logistics management but offer no supplier management and accounting services. Other DMCs can have all these services included in their offer.

Destination management encompasses many unique destination aspects, making it hard to distinguish good from bad practices. Here are the noteworthy best practices in destination management that touch on different aspects of destinations. 

Moving away from one-size-fits-all

Many DMCs have a one-size-fits-all approach to communicating the value of a destination. However, the recent COVID-19 pandemic proved that it might not be the best approach. Diversifying the marketing mix and adding personalized messages to attract both local and international travelers is a better solution.

While it may increase the research and marketing costs, this tactic can offer better results in the long run. It enables DMCs to identify destination aspects that cater to the needs of travelers in the local and international tourism markets. It can help the destination thrive, even if unforeseen circumstances occur. 

Development of the infrastructure

The destination’s infrastructure is key to attracting new tourists and accommodating the increasing number of tourists visiting the destination. Given the scale of work that has to be planned, managed, and completed, this practice involves the authorities in the destination. The local governments and councils must be swift to recognize the need of travelers. 

To do it, they need to work with tour operators and travel agents . They must quickly follow with required infrastructure upgrades or developments, which often involves issuing relevant permits, funding the projects, and overseeing their development.

Smart visitor dispersal

The famous 5-places-to-visit and 10-things-you-must-do travel blogs have the tourists always visiting the same locations in the destination. However, this practice hinders the development of the destination as a whole . That’s simply because tourists always end up dining at the same restaurants and staying at the same hotels.

The best way to facilitate the development of the entire destination and drive its economic growth is to disperse visitors across the destination. At the same time, this practice can improve traveler satisfaction rates as they get to explore new and less-famous locations while still having access to the most famous sights. 

Custom-tailored tourism destination marketing

We’ve already established that destination marketing is one of the key aspects of destination management. In the era where travelers look for personalized experiences, traditional marketing has very few things to offer.

That’s why DMCs started custom-tailored tourism destination marketing campaigns. They use a variety of channels to reach out to potential visitors. However, instead of delivering a uniform message, they communicate the unique destinations’ values to attract people with specific needs and expectations.

Travel responsibly

The increasing number of tourists in one destination can disrupt the everyday life of the locals, affect the region’s sustainability, and even result in an increased number of traffic accidents. That’s where the next best destination management practice, ‘travel responsibly’, comes into play.

Responsible travel can encompass various initiatives, including educating visitors about the local’s way of life, ensuring safety on the roads, enhancing public transport capacity, and building new parking spaces. The goal is to minimize the disruptions tourists can create while improving the safety of visitors and the locals.

A best practice in destination management is just a tip. To see the value of the best practice, you need to see it used in real-life .

Hotels in La Cerdanya focus on the local tourism market

La Cerdanya is one of the most attractive areas that international travelers like to visit while exploring Spain. However, the number of guests significantly decreased due to the travel restrictions. The hotels in the region recognized the current one-size-fits-all destination planning and management is no longer viable.

Catering to the needs of people in the local tourism market enabled the hotels in this Spanish region to attract more guests from Spain, keep their doors open, and even increase revenue . 

Croatian cities accommodating to the cruising industry

The international cruise industry is one of the fastest developing sub-sectors of the travel industry. As a country with a beautiful coastline, it has a limited number of ports to accommodate cruises . The particular need for this type of accommodation exploded after some Croatian cities were featured in famous movies and TV shows. 

In collaboration with DMCs, cruise companies, and tour operators, Croatia identified the key ports that need to be upgraded to accommodate cruisers . As a result, cruising tourism in Croatia exploded, generating more than 400% of revenue compared to previous seasons . 

Copenhagen visitor dispersal program

Wonderful Copenhagen, the Danish capital region’s official tourism organization, recognized the visitor dispersal needs and benefits it can offer both local and international visitors. The study found that 80% of locals want more dispersal of visitors, and travelers are more satisfied when they visit five or more neighborhoods .

Wonderful Copenhagen took action in collaboration with the local authorities. The new framework is named 10xCopenhagen. Over 50% of the new hotels in Copenhagen are being built in surrounding neighborhoods. It will help promote sustainable tourism and improve the visitors’ overall experience and satisfaction rates.

The ICS travel inspiration magazine

The ICS is one of the world’s leading DMCs. While the company still relies on traditional marketing to achieve some of its goals, it has also launched a more custom-tailored campaign . The company found a sweet spot for its campaign not to be too aggressive.

The ICS launched an online magazine with the sole purpose of helping travelers look for travel inspiration. They named the magazine The ICS Odyssey. Every new edition features a new destination highlighting a unique experience it can offer . 

Destination Queenstown’s responsible travel initiative

When it comes to alpine destinations available on our planet, few can compare to Queenstown, New Zealand. Recently, this destination has become very popular among international travelers. Many people even decided to invest in the region, buying land and building their new homes. 

However, Destination Queenstown, a regional travel organization in charge of Queenstown, discovered that residents are troubled with several concerns ranging from over-tourism to sustainability.

The organization reacted with many destination management initiatives to make the stay and travel in Queenstown more responsible. They invested in roads, public transport, and parking, but most importantly, they also introduced a visitor care code to enhance and promote travel responsibility .

While tourism can be one of the factors that help a destination or entire area to thrive, it has to be well-planned. Destination management is the only holistic approach to delivering this to a destination. As a coordinated process, it helps manage all the key elements that make a destination . 

Now that you know what destination management is, the best practices, and real-life examples, you can better understand this concept and see the value destination management creates for the destination and tourists, DMCs, and travel agents. 

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Cristóbal Reali, VP of Global Sales at Mize, with over 20 years of experience, has led high-performance teams in major companies in the tourism industry, as well as in the public sector. He has successfully undertaken ventures, including a DMO and technology transformation consulting. In his role at Mize, he stands out not only for his analytical and strategic ability but also for effective leadership. He speaks English, Spanish, Portuguese, and Italian. He holds a degree in Economics from UBA, complementing his professional training at Harvard Business School Online.

Mize is the leading hotel booking optimization solution in the world. With over 170 partners using our fintech products, Mize creates new extra profit for the hotel booking industry using its fully automated proprietary technology and has generated hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue across its suite of products for its partners. Mize was founded in 2016 with its headquarters in Tel Aviv and offices worldwide.

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Sustainable Tourism Destination Management Self-Paced Cornell Course

Course overview.

This course aims to train global hospitality and tourism professionals in using sustainable practices across all areas of the tourism industry. Throughout the course, you will be introduced to innovative, data-driven methods for destination management, delivered by over 20 world-renowned experts in the field. You will begin by identifying the different components that make up the global tourism industry and examine the effects each of these components has on a destination’s social, cultural, and environmental well-being. You will then acquire the tools needed to manage your destination sustainably by designing a climate action plan, documenting and accommodating natural capital needs, improving land-use planning, engaging with local communities, and managing public-private partnerships. Ultimately, you will be able to contribute to the economic development of a destination while also protecting its health.

Key Course Takeaways

• Define the global tourism economy and measure the social and environmental impacts of tourism
• Document water, waste, energy, and natural capital management needs
• Design a climate action plan for your tourism destination
• Track how tourism can support essential economic development goals
• Facilitate an inclusive process where local communities review and protect their own cultural and natural assets
• Transform destination governance by promoting public-private partnerships, data-driven decision making, and innovative financing
• Synthesize sustainable destination management tools by applying them to real-life tourism case studies

Download a Brochure

Strategic partners.

How It Works

Course authors.

• Certificates Authored

Mark Milstein is Clinical Professor of Management and Director of the Center for Sustainable Global Enterprise at the Samuel Curtis Johnson Graduate School of Management, Cornell University. He conducts applied research in and oversees the Center’s work on market and enterprise creation, business development, clean technology commercialization, and sustainable finance.

Dr. Milstein specializes in framing the world’s social and environmental challenges as unmet market needs which can be addressed effectively by the private sector through innovation and entrepreneurship, thereby allowing companies to achieve financial success by creatively addressing problems such as climate change, ecosystem degradation, and poverty. He has received funding from the National Science Foundation, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the Rockefeller Foundation the S.C. Johnson Foundation, SEvEN, the World Bank, the University of Queensland, and the Water Resources Institute. Over the past decade, Dr. Milstein has worked with more than 100 firms across a range of industries, including renewable energy and carbon markets, life sciences and sustainable agriculture, consumables, food and nutrition, healthcare, tourism and hospitality management, as well as finance and international development.

Dr. Milstein’s work and perspectives have been featured in The New York Times, MSNBC, CNBC, Forbes, The Guardian, and GreenBiz. He is a frequent speaker on the topics of strategy, organizational change, and innovation related to business and sustainability. He also consults with a number of multinational firms, small- and medium-sized enterprises, and NGOs. Dr. Milstein currently serves on the board of directors of Livelihood Basix International and as a board member for Johnson & Johnson’s Earthwards Program.

• Omnichannel Leadership Program
• Sustainable Business
• Food Executive Program

Megan Epler Wood is a leader, educator, and consultant who has dedicated her professional career to the implementation of sustainability practices in the field of tourism. She has worked for over 30 years to inform leaders, students, and business professionals across the globe on the use of well-researched and sustainable business, environmental conservation, and inclusive economic development tools. As program director of the Sustainable Tourism Asset Management Program (STAMP), Ms. Epler Wood seeks to increase collective knowledge and understanding of how to more effectively manage tourism destination assets over time to improve maintenance; ensure proper valuation; and help offset the influences of poverty, ecosystem degradation, climate change, land tenure, and the lack of government investment in vital local infrastructure in underdeveloped economies worldwide.

Who Should Enroll

• Hospitality and tourism professionals
• Business leaders
• Regional and urban planners
• Local, municipal, and national government employees
• Marketing and PR professionals
• Land and marine management professionals
• Economic development professionals
• Civil and systems engineers

What You'll Earn

• Recognition of Achievement from Cornell’s SC Johnson College of Business
• 40 Professional Development Hours (4 CEUs)

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• Freedom camping changes
• Transition Fund for Local Authorities
• Further freedom camping material

Destination Management and why it's important

• An integrated Destination Management approach
• Developing a Destination Management plan
• Components of a Destination Management plan
• Appendix: useful links and information sources
• New Zealand Cycle Trails funding
• Evaluation of the New Zealand Cycle Trails
• Supporting Māori Tourism
• Foreword from the Minister of Tourism
• The outlook for New Zealand-Aotearoa tourism
• Achieving the vision for tourism
• Transitioning to a regenerative tourism model
• Transforming the foundations of the tourism system
• Destination brand building and improving the visitor experience
• Supporting communities to manage tourism
• Working in partnership with others

On this page

Camilla Rutherford, Te Puia, Rotorua

Destination Management (DM) involves the management of all aspects of a destination that contribute to a visitor’s experience, including the perspectives, needs and expectations of:

• Māori/iwi/hapū
• tourism industry
• wider businesses
• local residents
• central & local government.

Diagram description

The diagram reinforces that DM involves the management of all aspects of a destination that contribute to a visitor’s experience, including the perspectives, needs and expectations of visitors, Māori/iwi/hapū, tourism industry, wider businesses, local residents and central & local government.

DM brings together different stakeholders to achieve the common goal of developing a well-managed, sustainable visitor destination. It is an ongoing process that requires destinations to plan for the future and considers the social, economic, cultural and environmental risks and opportunities.

Adopting a DM approach enables communities and destinations to respond to changing conditions and determine the type of tourism they would like to have and the benefits they would like to receive, taking an active role in managing these.

Every region is different, with unique attributes, assets, challenges and opportunities. There is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach to DM; solutions should be customised for the destination. However, we can learn from international experiences and enable productive, resilient, inclusive and sustainable destinations across New Zealand-Aotearoa, creating better value for visitors and residents alike.

Making the most of the benefits of tourism

Tourism helps to support local jobs and adds diversity, vibrancy and prosperity to communities. Whilst New Zealand has seen steady growth, visitor numbers and spending have not been distributed evenly across regions and the percentage share of international visitors travelling to the non-gateway regions has remained unchanged over the past several years. In addition, growth in off-peak travel has not been sufficient to address the ongoing seasonality challenge for many regions, affecting the productivity and viability of many tourism enterprises and the destination’s ability to attract investment.

Māori/iwi/hapū increasingly want to be involved in the sector and visitors are seeking authentic cultural/indigenous experiences.

DM and DM planning require inclusive engagement with Māori and where appropriate, respectfully incorporate an understanding of the destination’s unique Māori culture and protocols (tikanga). It can provide opportunities for product development that will enhance the visitor experience and the destination’s identity and brand expression.

Tourism is integral to economic development and is a key driver and tool to achieve wider economic development goals. DM and visitor attraction strategies can play a role in building the reputation of a region/place and attracting new residents, businesses and students.

DM involves collaboration across the multiple stakeholders that make up the ecosystem of a destination.

Managing environmental and social issues

In some parts of New Zealand, destinations are under pressure from visitors. This can often be the case during holiday periods when both international and domestic visitors are travelling. There is concern in some places that tourism and recreational activities are negatively affecting the natural environment; this is reducing the sector’s social licence in these communities.

TIA and Tourism New Zealand’s (TNZ) ‘Mood of the Nation’ survey in March 2019 showed that general community support for tourism is declining, with more New Zealanders now feeling worried about the pressures arising from visitor growth. This particularly applies to the effects of international visitors, with more New Zealanders thinking that international tourism puts too much pressure on New Zealand. 

Mood of the Nation survey on the Tourism Industry website (external link)

The community is a core part of a destination’s brand. As visitors seek deeper engagement with locals, it is important that communities’ welcome visitors and support tourism. Where local communities and tourism operators are engaged, well informed and involved, visitor experiences are more likely to be high quality, locally derived (unique) and innovative, and the community is more likely to be positive about the development of tourism.

Alistair Guthrie, Matapouri, Northland

“Welcoming, supportive communities are a vital part of what New Zealand has to offer our visitors. To ensure New Zealanders continue to offer manaakitanga to our visitors, it is essential that our destinations are well managed to meet the needs of both residents and visitors.” Chris Roberts, CE, Tourism Industry Aotearoa

< Background | An integrated Destination Management approach >

© Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment

https://www.mbie.govt.nz/immigration-and-tourism/tourism/tourism-projects/destination-management-guidelines/destination-management-and-why-its-important/ Please note: This content will change over time and can go out of date.

Sustainable Tourism Destination Management

New online course by cornell stamp from ecornell.

STAMP has created an 8-module online, self-paced Cornell course on Sustainable Tourism Destination Management for professionals and students. The program is available through eCornell. This course aims to train global hospitality and tourism professionals in using sustainable practices across all areas of the tourism industry. Throughout the course, you will be introduced to innovative, data-driven methods for destination management, delivered by over 25 world-renowned experts in the field.

You will begin by identifying the different components that make up the global tourism industry and examine the effects each of these components has on a destination’s social, cultural, and environmental well-being.You will then acquire the tools needed to manage your destination sustainably by designing a climate action plan, documenting and accommodating natural capital needs, improving land-use planning, engaging with local communities, and managing public-private partnerships. Ultimately, you will be able to contribute to the economic development of a destination while also protecting its health.

Sign up for the course

Learn About Financial Support

Course Alumni Testimonials

"If you are a tourism expert or consultant who has wondered why entrance fees need to be increased or have worked with destinations that are facing an unsustainable future, you will get a lot out of this course. If we wish to cultivate regenerative culture, it has to be place-based and people-centered, and we must shape tourism to help places and people flourish, socially, environmentally and economically." - Do Phuong, Course Participant, Slow Travel Hue, Vietnam

"The insights and teachings have broadened my understanding of sustainable tourism and equipped me with practical strategies to implement in real-world scenarios. The instructors’ passion for creating sustainable destinations is evident in their engaging teaching style, which makes every session a valuable learning opportunity. I'm excited to put this newfound expertise into practice and positively impact the world of travel." - Aditi Choudhary, Course Participant, India Institute of Tourism and Travel Management

The course provided extensive insight into real-world examples of sustainable practices in every aspect of global tourism and hospitality, and gave me opportunities to learn, exchange, and apply. I feel prepared to take this practical knowledge and apply it to current problems and prospects for Central Asian tourism. - Dr. Gulnoza Usmonova, Course Participant, Central Asian University, Uzbekistan

Faculty and Speakers

The program includes award-winning faculty and practitioners who will share destination management expertise from across the globe on urgent themes including climate change and over tourism. Participants will gain access to worksheets and downloadable tools to apply directly in professional settings, to informative targeted readings; graphics and animation to demonstrate complex issues; and research spotlights from top experts on cutting-edge destination management issues.

Megan Epler Wood Managing Director, Cornell STAMP, Cornell SC Johnson College of Business

Mark Milstein Clinical Professor, SC Johnson College of Business

Course Speakers Include

• Anthony Capuano , Marriott
• Keith Vincent and Aline Umutoni , Wilderness Safaris
• Sally Davey , Travalyst
• Api Movono , Massey University
• Keenan Adams , US Forest Service

Program Modules Include:

• Tourism Industry Overview
• The Invisible Burden of Tourism: Measuring Unaccounted for Impacts
• Managing the Invisible Burden of Tourism
• Managing Climate Impacts of Tourism
• Defining and Achieving Key Economic Development Goals
• Equitable and Inclusive Management of Tourism Shared Assets
• Developing Dedicated Destination Management Capacity
• Developing Long-Term Destination Management Plans

Learning Outcomes

• How the global tourism economy is structured, the role of destinations in securing long-term value, and the absence of efficient sustainable destination management programs.
• Which social and environmental impacts cause the “Invisible Burden of Tourism” on destinations and how to begin to measure these impacts.
• How to document water, waste, energy and natural capital management needs for the long-term well-being of residents and visitors, as well as review key components of a sustainable finance strategy.
• How to protect a destination’s natural and cultural capital via participatory master planning and introduce assessments to identify how tourism can support essential economic development goals that secure economic health and achieve long-term benefits to local societies.
• How to design a climate action plan for a tourism destination that is linked to science-based targets, local climate planning, and broader destination management goals.
• How to track essential economic development goals that secure long-term economic health and develop systems to retain destination value in the long term.
• Methods to facilitate an inclusive process where communities co-develop positive economic outcomes from tourism in a range of destination development settings which reach a broad range of society.
• Transform destination governance by promoting public-private partnerships, data-driven decision making, and innovative financing to increase financial benefits from tourism, protect destination assets, and allow the private sector to benefit from sustainable destination management.
• How to synthesize sustainable destination management tools and concepts to create a holistic destination management plan and provide opportunities to apply them to critical real-life case studies from the tourism sector.

The program was developed by the Cornell SC Johnson College of Business’ Center for Sustainable Global Enterprise Sustainable Tourism Asset Management Program (STAMP) in partnership with global NGO The Travel Foundation , with financial support from Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) .

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Home  /  Distance Education  /  Undergraduate Online  /  Undergraduate Degrees  /  B.S. in Tourism Destination Management

Tourism Destination Management

Bachelor of science.

Next start date is April 8th. Applying is easy and free!

Create tourism experiences

That embrace social sustainability..

Explore the Tourism Destination Management program at Unity, where your passion for travel meets environmental consciousness. Regenerative tourism and travel is a groundbreaking approach aligning responsible business, social equity, public policy and environmental sustainability.

Whether you aspire to launch an eco-conscious travel business or work on impactful tourism projects that help repair the earth and repair ecosystems, you’ll be uniquely positioned to address critical issues like climate change, biodiversity loss, and cultural preservation.

Join us to shape the future of travel, making it not just a personal adventure but a global force for good. Start your journey today!

Program Overview

To be sustainable, travel experiences must balance natural resource consumption with environmental protection, economic growth with destination resilience, and tourists’ experiences with local needs. Regenerative tourism can be a tool that promotes sustainable resource use while meeting local needs and visions for the future, creating a net positive benefit to the destination.

Destination developers seeking to use regenerative tourism as a tool must be familiar with tourism planning, project and people management, sustainable natural resource principles, visitor use trends, leadership, communication, and more. Learners in Tourism Destination Management will engage with content from the fields of business, economics, sustainability, development, and tourism and hospitality.

They will develop skills in data-driven decision-making, and project planning, design, management, and evaluation. Learners will explore how the tourism and hospitality industry is entangled within other industries (e.g., food systems, transportation), cultivate a set of best practices and project management skills useful for planning, evaluate current and future visitor trends to inform decision-making, understand the impacts of climate change to tourism (and tourism to climate change), and learn to balance local development, sustainable resource use, and economic security using regenerative principles.

Program graduates will be prepared to apply their skills in a variety of occupations, such as destination planners, tourism managers, and tourism coordinators.

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Career Outlook

Earn your degree.

Unlock new opportunities..

Sustainability Specialist jobs in the U.S., 2022.

Sustainability Specialist pay, 2022.

Estimated U.S. job openings for Sustainability Specialists through 2032.

*Source: O*Net & U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Unity Environmental University cannot guarantee employment. Salary data represents averaged earnings for the occupations listed and includes workers at all levels of education and experience.

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Experiential and Immersive Coursework

Tourism for Environmental and Social Sustainability

How can tourism be used as a tool to achieve sustainable development goals within a local area? In this course, students will examine best practices for tourism development, management, and evaluation procedures. 

Global Supply Chain Operations: Greening Your Business

The web connecting suppliers, manufacturers, warehouses, and retailers can be intricate. In this course, students will unravel the mysteries of global logistics, operations, and market strategies. Students will gain an understanding of the design, control, and operation of supply chains through the lens of sustainability management.

Minimal Impact Ecotourism

You can be a part of the solution and help preserve tourist destinations for generations to come. By delving into the core impacts of ecotourism on societies, economics, and the environment, students will gain a profound understanding of the challenges faced by these sensitive ecosystems.

Degree Requirements and Courses

The Tourism Destination Management degree requires 120 credits. You may transfer up to 90 credits from outside institutions. For more details, browse our  Tourism Destination Management  degree checklist. View our  full course catalog  for a better look into your program, then  apply online  for free to get started.

Frequently Asked Questions

Your online education should be affordable and manageable. Our team of distance education concierges will work with you through the admissions process to help you plan and pay for your degree. Learn more about the costs here.

Our comprehensive 120-credit program can be tailored to fit your schedule and goals! Completion time is flexible, determined by the number of credits you choose to take each term (8 terms/year) and less time with transfer credits. Without transfer credits, you can anticipate the following completion times:

• 24 credits/year: Complete in just 5 years
• 30 credits/year: Achieve your degree in 4 years
• 48 credits/year: Fast-track your education in only 2.6 years

For course requirements, view our  full course catalog or the  Tourism Destination Management program flyer  for a better look into your program. Then apply online for free to get started.

Tourism Destination Management is about making tourism, including eco-tourism and adventure tourism, good for the environment and the people who live in tourist destinations. It focuses on making sure that when people travel, they don’t harm the places they visit. Instead, tourism helps local communities and protects nature. This way, tourism can be a positive force for everyone involved.

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Navigating Success with Destination Management in Tourism

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Destination management fosters repeat visitation and positive destination branding, amplifying the destination's allure in the global marketplace.

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A roadmap for destination management in the digital economy

Where should global tourist destinations go from here? Image:  David Tapia San Martin/Unsplash

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In the digital economy, tourist destinations face management challenges like never before.

As tourism has become a truly global activity, destinations compete with other destinations worldwide. New technologies have accelerated tourism growth, bringing supply and demand closer, facilitating travel and booking and transforming marketing operations and business models. In the last 20 years, travel aggregators, online travel agencies, social media applications, metasearch engines and a host of new players have significantly transformed the tourism business and influenced demand behaviour.

The digital economy has led to new challenges for destination management—but destinations can overcome them and indeed thrive by harnessing the power of data.

In the digital economy, uncertainty is guaranteed in the decision-making process of governments, destinations and businesses: changes in business models, the emergence of new disruptive technologies, changes in society, the emergence of insecurity phenomena in tourist areas, a greater frequency of natural disasters.

On the other hand, everything happens very fast. The travel-planning process has been significantly shortened and last-minute bookings are more common, as the consumer increasingly has almost real-time information influencing buying decisions, such as hotel and flight availability and price, weather conditions and user-generated content about destinations.

Indeed, these technological developments have transferred power to the consumer in terms of decision making, forcing tourism stakeholders to adapt their strategies.

This transition has been a challenge for tourist destinations, and the fragmentation of the tourist industry makes it more difficult. More advanced players and small businesses coexist in the digital economy; for the latter, digitalization is a distant ambition, making them—and the destination—less competitive in the medium term.

Traditionally marketing-oriented, destination-management organizations are also evolving into more management-focused organizations. They are redefining their organizational structures, incorporating innovation and product development into their core business and investing significantly in knowledge production and dissemination to support this change.

For years, destination management used a limited number of indicators, available with some timing delay and limited granularity, complemented by demand surveys and generic research. This worked for market-oriented management. However, new developments and the aforementioned challenges completely change decision-making data needs, and even the role of the destination-management organizations. As in other industries, data will be the key resource for future tourism destination management.

Reports from WTTC , OECD and UNWTO clearly identify the benefits of big data, Internet of Things (IoT), machine learning, artificial intelligence and blockchain for better management of the sector, allowing continuous monitoring of performance, marketing campaign optimization, benchmarking with competitors and monitoring flows within the destination. Destination managers also have at their disposal data from social networks, mobile devices, credit cards, flights and airports, among others.

Given this large amount of data, the question is how to mobilize it and build a knowledge-based strategy for destination management.

The answer is far from easy. In fact, we have moved from a restricted number of data sources, provided by traditional institutions, to a constellation of new sources, complex by nature and with their own nomenclature, in order to respond to a completely new agenda.

There are several barriers to effective use of these new data sources, big data specifically:

• Data access usually requires a strong investment in data acquisition, storage and software that enables analysis of large volumes of data
• Data volume and complexity implies the need for analytical skills, which, today, are scarce and expensive, generally not available in destination management organizations
• Lack of innovation-oriented culture with the ability to maximize the use of data to turn insights into competitive advantages
• Ability to promote the transfer of knowledge to the firm level, inducing innovation in the development of products and services and in the generation of new business models
• Poor levels of vertical cooperation between national and local level in terms of destination management

The expertise required to overcome each of these barriers is spread across different organizations (data providers, universities, IT companies, accelerators and governments) and is difficult to concentrate in one single organization.

Overcoming these barriers will require a network approach or, in other words, setting up a knowledge ecosystem with increasing interdependencies among all stakeholders.

Have you read?

Managing a complex problem requires a solution that, while equally complex, can produce results seen as win-win solutions for all partners.

As with any ecosystem, a clear and shared strategy is key to aligning partners and enabling a common roadmap.

Leadership is also essential. In the case of tourism, destination-management organizations, due to their role, their knowledge of the industry and its specificities and the data to which they have access, must assume the leadership role and serve as a platform for knowledge-sharing by other stakeholders.

While there is not exactly a template, we can identify key elements of the process:

First, organizations must upgrade their knowledge base by incorporating new data sources.

Next, organizations should promote the development of analytical tools to transform this data into information ready for decision-makers. This requires them to build teams of analysts who can perform these tasks. In this case, to solve the skills issue, partnerships with universities are good ways to test new analytics solutions or the feasibility of using new data sources. An example is the project developed by Turismo de Portugal, NOVA SBE university and telecom company NOS to test the feasibility of using mobile data in the management of tourist destinations, allowing managers, data analysts and data providers to join.

Information sharing is another challenge. The development of data portals has been one solution. The European Commission's Virtual Tourism Observatory , TravelBI by Turismo de Portugal (see below) or the Buenos Aires Tourism Observatory are examples of best practices in terms of data portals that allow users to consult and use data about the tourism sector.

A final challenge is applying knowledge to new business development. This challenge has driven the emergence of open data portals making data open and accessible to developers and academics, and used in open innovation programs to develop solutions for business and destination issues.

Only those destinations and organizations that can adapt to the digital economy and harness data will overcome the challenges of this new world, and succeed.

For more insights and analysis on how 140 countries performed, read the World Economic Forum's 2019 Travel and Tourism Competitiveness report here .

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What is a Destination Management Organization (DMO) and Why Should Destinations Care?

Written by Zane Hartog on October 15, 2021 . Posted in Uncategorized .

Why do some destinations thrive, while others do not? All global destinations compete for visitors and money. They need the support of destination management organizations (DMOs) to help market, manage, succeed. But how and why? This article answers the question: what is a DMO and why the tourism industry should care about them.

So, what is a DMO?

DMO stands for destination management organization, though these are often referred to as destination marketing organizations. Ever wondered what a DMO is and what do they do? It is important to know about destination management first. The tourism industry is a trillion-dollar global business. Over 1.2 billion people travel abroad every year to experience the world’s diverse cultures and physical environments. Serious logistics are in play with this.  

According to the UNWTO , destination management is the coordinated and thoughtful planning of all elements that make up a tourism destination. This can involve anything from attracting visitors to providing amenities for them to enjoy during their stay in town – whether it’s free Wi-Fi or a stocked convenience store. 

What a destination management organization (DMO) does is represent the voice of its destination to potential visitors. It works with travel trade partners to provide travelers with information about the destination before they decide where to go on vacation. 

DMOs also bring together organizations that serve all aspects of the visitor experience – from lodging providers, attractions operators, restaurants, and retailers – so that they can share insights into what makes their community stand out as a tourist destination. Destinations with a strong DMO will be more competitive, have increased visibility, and have better economic performance than those without one. This careful planning ensures strategic, long term success of a tourism destination. This in-depth coordination moves beyond marketing, and is the reason why the M in DMO has been more recently referred to as management instead of marketing.

What Are the Responsibilities of a Destination Management Organization?

Successful DMOs and destination managers play an essential role in managing tourism at the local level to help attract tourists and support businesses within its boundaries. They’re also responsible for promoting it through positioning statements, branding campaigns, high-quality product development, effective communication with stakeholders (e.g., residents), and maximizing financial resources available from both public and private sources, while ensuring value for money spent on projects that meet overall objectives.

Contrary to popular belief, the overall objective for a DMO isn’t only to bring more tourists to the destination. It is to make tourism more sustainable and thus enjoyable for visitors for years to come. Hence, in a nutshell, DMOs engage in a variety of activities that will help promote and develop sustainable travel practices, including:

• Educating travelers about the destination’s attractions and offerings
• Marketing through targeted campaigns
• Working with other organizations on issues related to sustainability to achieve common goals
• Addressing resident concerns related to tourism

Why Should All Destinations Have a DMO?

Destinations are always looking for ways to stand out from the competition, but to do so, they need both short and long-term strategies. And that’s what all popular DMOs have. A destination management organization works with tourism boards and convention and visitors bureaus. It has a proven track record for generating awareness of destinations among tourists and travelers, which is why all destinations should care about DMOs.

Destinations don’t always receive their fair share of attention, funding, and investment from governments and corporations which can lead to a lack of tourism and growth opportunities.

However, destinations are an essential part of the world’s economy. Destination management organizations (DMOs) exist for this reason: to create economic prosperity in communities through promotion, strategic planning, and marketing efforts that attract tourists while ensuring that these visitors have a memorable experience.

The Importance of Destination Management Organizations

DMOs are committed to sustainable tourism and are of critical importance because they:

1. Take Advantage Of Their Destination’s Unique Potential

Every destination has something different and unique to offer. DMOs bring out that exclusivity to the front to portray the destination as a better attraction than other ones.

2. Conduct  Market Research

Knowing what to do, how to do, and when to do it is an art. And DMOs are the masters at it. These organizations are able to conduct market research through their short and long-term strategies to further elevate the destination’s status for years to come.

3.    Implement Destination Marketing Strategies

For destinations, it is especially important to be visible online to guide potential visitors. Destination management organizations focus on marketing strategies to promote a destination’s events, products, services, landmarks, and attractions.

DMOs are responsible for promoting their city’s tourism industry through strategic advertising campaigns that reach target audiences with specific messages or information. This strategic destination content takes the form of social media, print collateral, co-sponsoring events, hosting influencers, working with the local chamber of commerce, and more! Look into the ways your local DMO promotes visitors coming to your home.

4. Drive Economic Growth in a Sustainable Way

In the 21st century, a sustainable economy is more important than ever. As travel becomes accessible to a wider range of people across all income brackets and cultures, destinations must promote tourism in a way that their economic growth remains sustainable. And that’s what DMOs do.

5. Attract Investment

Every destination needs to be the best it can be, and that includes marketing its own community to attract investors. Hence, DMOs are one of the most effective ways for destinations to market themselves in exactly the right way to draw more investment feasibly! This requires a collaborative approach from both public and private stakeholders.

6. Engage With Stakeholders To Develop More Favorable Conditions

DMOs take everyone on the path to sustainable and successful tourism. They not only cater to travelers, but also serve as an interface between visitors and local businesses; they can help develop new products or improve existing ones to meet the needs of both tourists and locals.

Destination Management Organizations (DMOs) are the backbone of tourism destinations. They exist to promote destinations, attract visitors, and develop a regional economy. DMOs are responsible for everything from attracting major sporting events to promoting local festivals. They work with businesses to help them understand what travelers need to have an enjoyable experience. Read more about why a DMO is important to a destination . 

Interested in how we can help you develop a DMO for your destination? Contact us to learn more, and check out ATKOMA, the DMO we helped develop in Atauro Island, Timor-Leste

Written by Daniel Segura and Zane Hartog

Tags: destination planning , destinationmanagement , destinationmanagementorganization , destinationmarketing , destinationmarketingorganization , sustainable tourism , whatisadmo

Master Tourism Destination Management

1-year professional master’s programme | english-taught, live webinars.

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Future of tourism destinations

Do you want to explore how to shape the future of tourist destinations in a responsible, resilient and sustainable way? Then the Master Tourism Destination Management is for you!    

This programme will equip you as a young professional with the skills, knowledge and tools to tackle complex challenges and opportunities that tourism destinations face. You will learn different perspectives from various stakeholders, such as tourists, locals, businesses, governments and NGOs. You will also apply your learning in practice and conduct field research at four different destinations in the world, experiencing the diversity and cross-cultural dynamics of tourism first-hand. 

Why choose the Master in Tourism Destination Management at BUas?

• Three months of field research at three different destinations in the world
• Great opportunity to expand your international network 
• Internationally acknowledged by UNWTO and THE-ICE

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Study overview

Study programme, course details, study load and coaching.

Tourism remains a dynamic and fast-growing sector, creating an interdisciplinary field of study and research. The tourism industry offers economic benefits, growth and opportunities for people and businesses in destination areas. At the same time, matching demand - of tourists in the areas of origin - and supply - at the tourism destinations - continues to be a challenge for many organisations.

The tourism industry and tourism destinations frequently experience rapid changes in markets and business models, often in response to social and economic processes occurring in the wider world. Effective management of this type of change and building resilient businesses and destinations requires knowledge and expertise, which is closely interwoven with the destination areas themselves. The Master in Tourism Destination Management has been designed to contribute to this, focusing on practice, perspectives and tourism management policies at destinations.

This programme offers you the opportunity to study at four different locations in the world so that you will obtain wide-ranging intercultural experience and develop in-depth knowledge of tourism destinations. Each destination finds itself in a different stage of development. You will carry out research at three different destinations. In previous years destinations were: Indonesia, Singapore, Australia, Malaysia, Cambodia, Vietnam, Thailand, Sri Lanka, France and Malta.

The programme is structured into three phases. The first phase in Breda, with a clear emphasis on theory, is considered to be the preparation for the second and third phase. The second phase takes place at three different types of tourism destinations. It has a focus on the tourism practice under different circumstances and you will work in international student research teams. In the final phase, you will write your final thesis in which practice and theory should be brought together, striving towards new insights, theories or generalisations.

The programme covers 12 months and it comprises three phases:

During the first phase, you will gain theoretical knowledge and develop your professional skills. This enables you to effectively analyse the current situation and available potential for development strategies at various tourism destinations. Destination theories, models, developments and practical cases will be studied in group projects, as well as in individual assignments. Courses are given by lecturers, along with an interesting team of visiting lecturers from international organisations and universities. Some courses will take you for a company visit or assignment on the spot. The workload is 40 hours per week. 

The first phase covers the following subjects: 

• Destination Stakeholders and Policy (6 ECTS credits)   
• Contemporary Marketing, Context and Trends (6 ECTS credits) 
• Destination Development, Finance and Organisation (6 ECTS credits) 
• Context Related Research (4 ECTS credits) 
• Cross Cultural Studies (3 ECTS credits) 
• Research Process & Methods (3 ECTS credits) 
• Team Performance and Creative Leadership (2 ECTS credits)

In the second phase, you will carry out assignments at three different locations around the globe. These assignments are created by lecturers in cooperation with stakeholders involved in developments of tourist destinations in the region. The students will have to embed themselves into a foreign culture in order to get the desired contextual information. Each group is assigned a different stakeholder perspective and has to do research on the possible, probable, or preferable future of their area/district/region.  

We try to select a great variety in destinations that are familiar with developments and dynamics, have many contacts with businesses, government institutions and universities of applied sciences, where research can be done in English, and that offer cultural differences.  

The final decision on the mix of destinations will be determined after the start of the programme. In the past we have visited, amongst others, Australia, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Cambodia, Indonesia, Chambery, Malta, Singapore. 

By writing a final thesis during the last phase of the programme, you will apply your research skills and demonstrate a true understanding of tourism destination management from a professional and academic point of view. A final thesis is an individual assignment, carefully supervised by one of our lecturers. 

Subjects  Writing a final thesis is a major commitment in terms of time and energy. The subject, as a consequence, often personally motivates and interests the student and (new) ideas of students can be openly discussed with our staff. Already in phase I you will be asked to come up with a topic and start writing your research proposal. In principle the thesis subject should be a topic or an issue in an international tourism context. The final thesis should be written in English, unless another language is really more appropriate. Some examples of recent theses: 

• Strengthening bridges - How a Dutch tour operator can improve its collaboration with their Indonesian partners 
• Development and Implication of Smart City Practices in Rural Destinations. How can regenerative tourism possibly happen? 
• Experiences and motives behind tourists' choice of destinations with paranormal activity - a case study of Hoia Baciu Forest, Romania 
• More examples can be found here .

Cooperation with an external commissioner You can opt for writing your thesis in close cooperation with an external commissioner. This enables you to closely cooperate with an international tourism organisation, thus adding an extra and professional dimension to the research project. However, many students write an independent research thesis and travel to a tourism destination to study their subject in-depth. 

Research location Conducting research and writing a final thesis in this third phase can be done anywhere in the world. The final (oral) exam takes place in the Netherlands. The majority of the students graduates by the end of August, which makes this programme a fulltime, 12 months programme.

The Master Tourism Destination Management is a one-year, full-time programme. The total study load is 60 ECTS credits. To give you an idea: 1 ECTS credit equals approximately 28 hours of study a week.

We offer you a small-scale study environment. The number of students involved in this master's programme differs every year between 30 and 45 up to 50 students. Whenever possible the class will be split up for workshops, consultancy sessions and other group work. For questions on the content of the programme, lecturers can be easily reached. In addition, the master's coordinator is available to help with day-to-day issues. If you wish to discuss personal problems that may be affecting your life as a student, you can turn to the student counsellor.

Learn, grow and reach milestones

Lecturer Master Tourism Destination Management

Maximising the positives, minimising the negatives

Julie Teclová

Marketing Specialist for Prague City Tourism

I always strive to find the perfect balance

Joost Bouwmeester

Product Manager at Simi Reizen

Students are eligible if they hold a bachelor’s degree (BA, BSc., BBA, B Com), for example in the fields of tourism, hotel management, international business, management, economics, law, e-commerce, urban development, geography, social sciences or finance.

Please check out the full  admission requirements .

Application

If you meet the admission requirements, you are invited to apply for this programme. Please check out the  application procedure .

In the academic year 2024-2025 the statutory tuition fee for master's programmes is €2,530. In addition to the tuition fee, you will need to take into account additional costs for the purchase of study materials such as textbooks. Read more about study costs.

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Your career

Graduates of the Master Tourism Destination Management  are entitled to the degree of Master of Arts and qualified for international policy and advisory positions, international management positions and research positions.

Like to know more? After your Master Tourism Destination Management.

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The Importance of Destination Management in Tourism

by Bryan Reynolds | Nov 30, 2023 | Destination Marketing

The importance of destination management in tourism cannot be overstated. Not only does it play a vital role in the success of a particular destination, but it also contributes significantly to the overall growth of the travel and tourism industry.

• Destination management encompasses a coordinated process involving various stakeholders.
• It plays a vital role in managing tourism at a specific location.
• Destination management can contribute to sustainable tourism.
• It helps boost the area’s local economy.

Destination Management: A Holistic Approach

Destination management takes a holistic approach to promoting a particular location as an attractive tourist destination. It involves several different aspects, such as market research, the development of unique selling points, management of local resources, and marketing efforts.

• Destination management initiatives include market research to understand potential visitors’ needs and pain points.
• Unique selling points of the destination are identified and promoted.
• Local resources are managed effectively for sustainable tourism.
• Marketing efforts are directed toward the target audience through appropriate channels.

Benefits of Destination Management

There are many benefits that destination management brings to the tourism industry. These benefits extend beyond attracting more visitors and generating more money for the local economy.

• It promotes sustainable tourism by ensuring the judicious use of local resources.
• It helps attract investment into the local community and businesses.
• Destination management contributes to economic growth by boosting tourism.
• It enhances the travel experience for tourists by addressing their needs and expectations.

Role of Destination Management Companies (DMCs)

Destination management companies (DMCs) play an essential role in bringing a tourism destination to life. They work closely with local businesses, tour operators, and tourism boards to create a compelling visitor experience.

• DMCs collaborate with local businesses and tour operators to offer attractive packages.
• They work with tourism boards to align their marketing campaigns with wider destination marketing strategies.
• DMCs help promote destinations both locally and internationally to attract visitors.
• They contribute to the local economy by generating ticket sales, promoting local attractions, and creating jobs.

Effective Destination Marketing Strategies

Effective destination marketing strategies are a key part of destination management. These strategies aim to promote the destination to a wider audience, attract more visitors, and outperform other travel brands.

• Market research is conducted to understand the target audience and their preferences.
• Stunning visuals and valuable information about the destination are shared on social media platforms.
• Marketing campaigns are tailored to highlight the unique attractions that the destination offers.
• Collaboration with travel brands can help reach potential travelers who might not be reached otherwise.

Destination management is an essential part of the tourism industry. It involves a holistic approach that includes marketing, managing tourism at the destination, and working with local businesses and residents to create a memorable experience for visitors. By doing so, it helps promote destinations, boost the local economy, and contribute to sustainable tourism.

Examples and Responsibilities of Destination Management Companies (DMCs)

Destination Management Companies (DMCs) are crucial in shaping the tourism experience. They have a wide array of responsibilities that are aimed at promoting tourism and contributing to the local economy. Here’s a list of some of the key activities and responsibilities of DMCs.

• Plan and Organize Tour Packages : DMCs collaborate with local businesses and tour operators to create customized tour packages that highlight the best that the destination has to offer.
• Local Expertise and Guidance : They provide local expertise and guidance to tourists. They are well-versed with local customs, attractions, and are able to provide tourists with in-depth knowledge about the destination.
• Marketing and Promotion : DMCs work towards promoting the destination through various marketing strategies. They leverage both traditional and digital media to reach a wider audience.
• Liaison with Local Stakeholders : DMCs act as a liaison between multiple stakeholders in the tourism industry, including local businesses, government agencies, and tourists.
• Event Management : They provide event management services, including the planning and execution of conferences, meetings, and special events.
• Sustainability Practices : DMCs are responsible for enforcing and encouraging sustainable tourism practices to preserve the destination’s natural and cultural resources for future generations.
• Transportation Services : They provide transportation services, ensuring smooth travel experiences for tourists.
• Accommodation Arrangements : DMCs collaborate with hotels and other accommodation providers to arrange comfortable stays for tourists.
• Emergency Support : They also offer support in case of emergencies to ensure the safety of tourists. This includes providing travel insurance, medical assistance, and evacuation services.
• Economic Impact : DMCs have a significant economic impact on the destination’s local economy by generating employment opportunities, attracting investments, and promoting local businesses.

You destination marketing campaigns can also be advised by the management team. This can help inform your destination management strategy.

HootBoard Can Help Destination Management Companies

If you’re a destination management company looking to enhance your services, HootBoard can help!.HootBoard is a digital platform that allows DMCs to connect with their clients and provide them with valuable information, promotions, and updates. Here’s how HootBoard can benefit DMCs:

• Real-Time Communication : DMCs can communicate with tourists in real-time through HootBoard’s digital platform. This allows them to provide timely updates and information, enhancing the overall travel experience.
• Engage with Visitors : DMCs can engage with visitors by sharing engaging content about the destination, local events, and attractions on HootBoard’s digital bulletin boards.
• Promote Local Businesses : By partnering with local businesses, DMCs can promote them on HootBoard, helping boost their visibility and driving more business to them.
• Efficient Information Sharing : With HootBoard’s digital platform, DMCs can efficiently share important information with tourists, such as weather updates, transportation schedules, and emergency contacts.

Destination management is a critical aspect of the tourism industry. It involves promoting a destination, managing tourism activities, and collaborating with local stakeholders to create a memorable experience for visitors. Destination Management Companies play a crucial role in this process by providing valuable services such as tour planning, marketing, event management, and transportation services. With the help of digital platforms like HootBoard, DMCs can enhance their services and better connect with their clients, ultimately contributing to the success of destination marketing strategies.  So, it is essential for DMCs to continuously evolve and adapt to changing trends to ensure the growth and sustainability of destinations worldwide.

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Business tourist flow from India to Moscow on the rise: Evgeny Kozlov

Business + Leisure Travel and MICE 2023 opened on 29 th of September with a keynote speech from the Chairman of The Moscow City Tourism Committee, Evgeny Kozlov. In his speech, the Chairman spoke about the potential for MICE and business tourism in Moscow and the growing number of Indian businessmen who are choosing Moscow as their preferred destination for business events.

Evgeny Kozlov highlighted that the number of business tourists is expected to grow in the coming years. One of the factors supporting the growth of interest from Indian businessmen was the launch of electronic visa program. From August 1, 2023, it has become easier for Indian citizens to organize a trip to Moscow – they can come simply by applying for an electronic visa. The validity period of an e-visa is 60 days from the date of its issuance. You can stay with it in Russia for 16 days. An e-visa has several advantages over a traditional visa. To obtain it, you do not need to go to consulates or embassies, and the only documents required are a digital photograph of your face and a scan of the page with your passport data.

“Before the pandemic, the tourist flow from India grew by 12-15 percent annually. Now we are on the road to recovery – all the conditions have been created for this. Every year hundreds of international exhibitions, forums, congresses and conferences are held in Moscow. Over the past year, about 3.5 million people visited the capital for business purposes and a significant share of them are from India” – he said.

Evgeny Kozlov emphasized that Moscow is a growing hub for international business events and Indian businessmen could benefit from attending these events to expand their network and explore potential business opportunities. The Moscow MICE Ambassadors program, which also premiered at the exhibition, aims to promote Moscow as a preferred destination for business tourism, and Indian businessmen who have completed the program can serve as valuable resources for organizing conferences and events in Moscow. Furthermore, Moscow offers a range of world-class facilities and services for business travelers, including conference centers, hotels, transportation, and sightseeing. He also mentioned that Moscow’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant nightlife could provide Indian businessmen with unique experiences that could enhance their overall business trip.

In conclusion, Evgeny Kozlov expressed his optimism for the future of MICE and business tourism in Moscow. Thus, in October 2023, Moscow will host the largest MICE Congress in Russia. Among the participants are 14 countries, including Indians. The event will provide a platform for businesses in the travel and tourism industry to showcase their products and services.

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Business Tourist Flow from India to Moscow is One of the Most Numerous – Evgeny Kozlov

The Moscow City Tourism Committee revealed that Indian businessmen are paying ever growing attention to Russia and its capital, as over the last 2 years the MICE tourist flow from India has grown to become one of the most numerous groups among all foreign business tourists outside the CIS countries.

Business + Leisure Travel and MICE 2023 opened on 29th of September at New Delhi

Business + Leisure Travel and MICE 2023 opened on 29th of September at New Delhi with a keynote speech from the Chairman of The Moscow City Tourism Committee, Mr. Evgeny Kozlov. In his speech, the Chairman spoke about the potential for MICE and business tourism in Moscow and the growing number of Indian businessmen who are choosing Moscow as their preferred destination for business events.

Mr. Evgeny Kozlov highlighted that the number of business tourists is expected to grow in the coming years. One of the factors supporting the growth of interest from Indian businessmen was the launch of electronic visa program. From August 1, 2023, it has become easier for Indian citizens to organize a trip to Moscow – they can come simply by applying for an electronic visa. The validity period of an e-visa is 60 days from the date of its issuance. You can stay with it in Russia for 16 days. An e-visa has several advantages over a traditional visa. To obtain it, you do not need to go to consulates or embassies, and the only documents required are a digital photograph of your face and a scan of the page with your passport data.

“ Before the pandemic, the tourist flow from India grew by 12-15 percent annually. Now we are on the road to recovery – all the conditions have been created for this. Every year hundreds of international exhibitions, forums, congresses and conferences are held in Moscow. Over the past year, about 3.5 million people visited the capital for business purposes and a significant share of them are from India, ” he said.

Evgeny Kozlov emphasized that Moscow is a growing hub for international business events and Indian businessmen could benefit from attending these events to expand their network and explore potential business opportunities. The Moscow MICE Ambassadors program, which also premiered at the exhibition, aims to promote Moscow as a preferred destination for business tourism, and Indian businessmen who have completed the program can serve as valuable resources for organizing conferences and events in Moscow. Furthermore, Moscow offers a range of world-class facilities and services for business travelers, including conference centers, hotels, transportation, and sightseeing. He also mentioned that Moscows rich cultural heritage and vibrant nightlife could provide Indian businessmen with unique experiences that could enhance their overall business trip.

In conclusion, Mr. Evgeny Kozlov expressed his optimism for the future of MICE and business tourism in Moscow. Thus, in October 2023, Moscow will host the largest MICE Congress in Russia. Among the participants are 14 countries, including Indians. The event will provide a platform for businesses in the travel and tourism industry to showcase their products and services.

Moscow City Tourism Committee is the executive body of the Moscow City Government that oversees tourist activities in the capital. The Committee is responsible for legislative initiatives, congress and exhibition activities, and event and image projects. As the brand manager for an attractive tourism image for Moscow, Mostourism constantly analyses global trends, offers Russian and foreign tourists what they want, and also uncovers new opportunities for the capital in terms of interesting and rewarding leisure activities.

For more details, please visit: www.mos.ru/tourism .

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