Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has emerged as a transformative force in the realm of tourism, reshaping traditional travel experiences and paving the way for the development of Smart Tourism Destinations (STDs). Smart Tourism Destinations leverage cutting-edge ICT tools and solutions to enhance the overall travel ecosystem, providing a seamless and personalized experience for both tourists and local stakeholders.

ICT plays a pivotal role in various facets of smart tourism, from efficient destination management to delivering enhanced visitor experiences. Technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Big Data analytics, and Augmented Reality (AR) are harnessed to create interconnected and intelligent destinations. These innovations empower destination managers to collect and analyze vast amounts of data, enabling them to make informed decisions, optimize resource allocation, and enhance the overall sustainability of tourism activities.

One of the key aspects of ICT in smart tourism is the creation of intelligent infrastructures that facilitate real-time communication and interaction between tourists, service providers, and the destination itself. Mobile applications, smart devices, and digital platforms enable tourists to access personalized information, navigation assistance, and immersive experiences, transforming their journey into a more engaging and tailored adventure.

BEST PRACTICES

TYPEMICROLEARNING NAMESPECIFIC OBJECTIVESDURATION
VideoGive an overview of the essence of what marketing for tourism is.Give an overview of the essence of what marketing for tourism is.5.54 min
VideoThe Future of Tourism: what is next? 11.21 min
VideoMarketing strategies12 Marketing Strategies11.44 min
VideoMarketing guru Philp Kotler glimpses into the marketingMarketing guru Philp Kotler glimpses to the marketing1h 48 min
VideoMarketing 5.0You as a Smart Destination Manager are the most important person to make the messages heard. How do you do that?1h
Video15 practical examples you can use in your marketing actionsMarketing guru Philp Kotler glimpses into the marketing8.58 min
VideoNeuromarketing15 practical exapmples you can use in your marketing actions10.05 min
VideoThe Technological Impact on TourismHint: It’s even more than you think2.16 min
ArticleMarketing guru Philp Kotler glimpses into the marketingTourism was one of the first sectors to digitalize business processes on a global scale, bringing flight and hotel booking online to become a digital pioneer. As information and communications technology (ICT) became a global phenomenon, tourism was a consistent early adopter of new technologies and platforms. 
VideoThe Technological Impact on Tourism? Hint: It’s even more than you thinkThis is a quick introduction to the relationship between technology and tourism. Tourism is a very human-dependent industry that is almost impossible without technology.2.16 min
VideoThe Future Of Virtual And Augmented Reality In TourismDiscover the possibilities of virtual and augmented reality in the tourism industry in this video. With the help of new technologies, VR can improve the visitor’s experience and provide a realistic, immersive experience. Find out how VR can be used to promote tourism destinations, sell hotels, and enhance visitors’ experiences. Learn how specialized software and gear can make virtual travel a reality.2.06 min
ArticleAR In Travel And Tourism: Use Cases, Trends, & MoreLearn about the application of AR in tourism and travel. 
ArticleDigital Trends in the Tourism IndustryDigital tourism trends encompass the growing integration of digital technologies in the tourism industry. By leveraging these digital tools, the tourism industry can adapt to changing consumer behaviours and expectations, offering richer, more interactive, and convenient travel experiences. 
ArticlePreserving cultural heritage using AIOrganizations like Microsoft use AI to protect cultural heritage. In this article discover the future of AI in digital cultural heritage.4 min
VideoWhat Is E-Tourism And How Is Technology Changing The Tourism Industry?We live in a digital world nowadays, or an ‘e’ world as some may like to put in. We have concepts such as ‘e-business’, ‘e-commerce’, ‘e-marketing’ and ‘e-service’, so it seems it was only time before the idea of ‘e-tourism’ emerged. But what exactly is e-tourism, how does it work and why is it important?11.49 min
Video9 Ways How Digital Media Has Changed TourismThe travel and tourism industry has seen a lot in recent years. The changing technology at a fast pace and upcoming recent trends and developments have changed the face of the tourism industry. One such important factor in the changing face of the tourism industry is the social media. In recent years, there has been significant business growth through digital media as well as the overall growth of global tourism. Thus, digital media plays a vital role in the tourism industry.5.59 min
ArticleThe role of technology in enhancing the tourism experience in smart destinations: A meta-analysisAn increasing number of destinations are using smart technology to enrich the travel experience. This paper aims to integrate the findings about how technology affects the tourism experience in smart destinations to provide an overview of its impact. 
ArticleTechnology shaping the future of the hospitality industryDigital transformation and the leverage of technology play an important role in today’s hospitality industry. 
Article15 Examples of the Use of Virtual Reality (VR) in TourismVirtual reality (VR) technology has made tremendous strides in recent years, impacting various industries in unprecedented ways. One such industry is tourism, where VR has emerged as a game-changer, offering unique and immersive experiences that allow people to explore new destinations without ever leaving their homes. 
ArticleSmart Tourism: The Future of the Sector is TechnologicalSmart tourism is defined as the dynamic connection of human experiences with smart technologies. It is closely linked to the development of Smart Cities and goes hand in hand with improvements in technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, IoT, Big Data, or 5G. 
ArticleSmart tourism optimizes resources and understands tourist needsSmart Tourism Destinations (ITD) are places that make use of digitalization to optimize tourism management and provide tourists with a better experience through personalized, accessible, and sustainable services and products. Smart destinations implement next-generation digital technologies such as IoT, Artificial Intelligence, Big Data, and data analytics to collect real-time information, automate processes and improve the efficiency of tourism operations in an increasingly competitive and global market. 
ArticleTransforming the travel value chain with BlockchainIn this article, we will deep dive into how Blockchain technology is revolutionizing the travel industry, unlocking new avenues for enterprise growth and customer experience. 
VideoPill of knowledge – Blockchain opportunities in tourismIn this short video learn about the opportunities that entering a virtual economy brings.20.15 min
ArticleIoT in Tourism and Travel: Examples, Trends and Benefits for the Travel IndustryIn this article, we will dissect the trends of IoT in travel and hospitality, explore the benefits, and take a look at the most prominent applications. 
ArticleHow Can the Hospitality Industry Benefit from the IoT?In this article, you will find out more about what the Internet of Things is, and how it can benefit those in hospitality. 
WebinarHow artificial intelligence is reforming the travel industry?In this webinar learn how artificial intelligence is reforming the travel industry.59.52 min
VideoPills of knowledge – Smart Destination 24.10 min
VideoChallenges and opportunities of the tourism industry’s digital transformationPill of knowledge on the topic of challenges and opportunities of the tourism industry’s digital transformation.19.17 min
WebinarWEB 3 & Artificial Intelligence, The New FrontierTo support the digital transformation of the sector, this report examines i) the role of digital technology in tourism and its impact on work organisation; ii) how digitalisation affects the demand for skills in the sector; and iii) the role of government in creating the conditions to support the digital transformation of tourism business models and preparing the tourism workforce for change.53.42 min
ArticleUNWTO Executive CouncilThematic Discussion: “Tourism and the digital transformation” 
Deepening studyOECD Tourism Papers No. 2021/02: Preparing the TourismTo support the digital transformation of the sector, this report examines: i) the role of digital technology in tourism and its impact on work organisation; ii) how digitalisation affects the demand for skills in the sector; and iii) the role of government in creating the conditions to support the digital transformation of tourism business models and preparing the tourism workforce for change. 
WebinarGet inspired and pick up new tools: innovative technologies and smart solutions for tourismLearn about how to be a data-driven destination and about new technologies for data management1h 20 min
WebinarData Analytics in the Tourism Sector  
ArticleDigital Interpretation of Cultural HeritageDigital Interpretation of Cultural Heritage 
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Good practiceDigital Innovation of Cultural Heritage – the case of SloveniaThe video showcases projects and solutions that have been part of a public tender for leading tourist destinations by the Ministry of Economic Development and Technology in 2019. Projects have been co-financed by the participating tourist destinations, the Republic of Slovenia and the European Union through the European Regional Development Fund.2.52 min
HandbookDIGITAL INNOVATION OF CULTURAL HERITAGE: Handbook for tourist destinations and cultural heritage institutions  
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ArticleThe Impact of Information and Communication Technology on the Tourism SectorThe article provides relevant insights how Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has changed the global businesses environment by a wide range of tools, methodologies and functions, facilitating the strategic management and supporting firms to achieve a long term competitive advantage.