Sustainable Tourism Training Program 2017-2018

Training for SCP

• GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training in Bangkok, Thailand
  GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training in Bangkok, Thailand

  Regions

  Asia / Pacific

  Lead organization

  On February 13-15, 2017, the GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training Program (STTP) delivered a training class in Bangkok, Thailand (co-hosted by Pacific Asia Travel Association) for industry professionals from around Southeast Asia and beyond, featuring presentations by local and international experts.

  Objective

  On February 13-15, 2017, the GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training Program (STTP) delivered a training class in Bangkok, Thailand (co-hosted by Pacific Asia Travel Association) for industry professionals from around Southeast Asia and beyond, featuring presentations by local and international experts. The training class was led by GSTC Trainers Dr. Mihee Kang and Benjamin Lephilibert, and featured expert presentations by Randy Durband (Chief Executive Officer, GSTC), Nia Klatte (Sustainability Coordinator, EXO Travel Thailand), Nitshananun Sonklin (Sustainability Coordinator and Project Manager, Yaana Ventures), and Supaporn Prachumpai, (President, Royal Silk Holidays). In addition to presentations on the GSTC Criteria and best practice case studies, the training class offered a one-day on-site session at Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok to learn firsthand about sustainability practices at the hotel.

  Achievements

  On February 13-15, 2017, the GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training Program (STTP) delivered a training class in Bangkok, Thailand (co-hosted by Pacific Asia Travel Association) for industry professionals from around Southeast Asia and beyond, featuring presentations by local and international experts. The training class was led by GSTC Trainers Dr. Mihee Kang and Benjamin Lephilibert, and featured expert presentations by Randy Durband (Chief Executive Officer, GSTC), Nia Klatte (Sustainability Coordinator, EXO Travel Thailand), Nitshananun Sonklin (Sustainability Coordinator and Project Manager, Yaana Ventures), and Supaporn Prachumpai, (President, Royal Silk Holidays). In addition to presentations on the GSTC Criteria and best practice case studies, the training class offered a one-day on-site session at Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok to learn firsthand about sustainability practices at the hotel.

• First GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training in Hong Kong
  First GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training in Hong Kong

  Regions

  Asia / Pacific

  Lead organization

  GSTC Training Partner Infinity Group and the Hong Kong Ecotourism & Travels Professional Training Centre (香港生態旅遊專業培訓中心 ETTC) organized, from March 17-19, 2017, the first training class of the GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training Program (STTP) in Hong Kong.

  Objective

  GSTC Training Partner Infinity Group and the Hong Kong Ecotourism & Travels Professional Training Centre (香港生態旅遊專業培訓中心 ETTC) organized, from March 17-19, 2017, the first training class of the GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training Program (STTP) in Hong Kong. GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training in Hong Kong The 3-day training class was hosted at Heritage Lodge (featuring a guest presentation by the lodge manager) led by the following GSTC trainers: Professor Lewis Cheung: Dr. Lewis T.O. Cheung is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Social Sciences of the Education University of Hong Kong. He has received his Master in Geographical Information Systems and Doctor of Philosophy from the University of Hong Kong in 2004 and 2010 respectively. His research interests focus on sustainable tourism with particular emphasis on nature-based tourism in protected areas, environmental education, and environmental conservation. Dr. Alan Wong: Dr. Alan Wong received his PhD from the School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM), The Hong Kong Polytechnic University in 2008. He is currently teaching there for undergraduate and postgraduate courses. His main research interest is in leadership in the hospitality and tourism industry with the cross-cultural perspective. He is an Honor Advisor of Hong Kong Association of Registered Tour Co-ordinators (HARCOT) and he runs different workshops for tour guides in Hong Kong and the Pearl River Delta region. He is also an Honor Advisor for The Tai Po Environmental Association and Fung Yuen Butterfly Reserve, Hong Kong; a board member of Asian Ecotourism Network (AEN). Mr. Derek Tse: Mr. YueTak (Derek) Tse is the General Manager of HKTraveler.com Ltd., Hong Kong with its subsidiaries of Eco Travel Ltd and Hong Kong Ecotourism & Travels Professional Training Centre. With over 10 year's experiences in the field of education and sustainable tourism industry, he specializes in developing sustainable tourism business model, plan and strategy. To contribute to the tourism industry, he is currently the Training Committee Member of Hong Kong Tourism Council and the Recommend Geopark Guide (R2G) of Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark. With participants from around Hong Kong representing a wide range of tourism industry sectors and professional fields – from hotels and hospitality businesses to non-profit conservation organization, to guides and independent professionals – the training class offered valuable opportunities for sharing and strengthening sustainable tourism knowledge and awareness, as well as discussing best practices in implementing specific sustainability actions in the context of tourism in Hong Kong and in Asia.

  Achievements

  GSTC Training Partner Infinity Group and the Hong Kong Ecotourism & Travels Professional Training Centre (香港生態旅遊專業培訓中心 ETTC) organized, from March 17-19, 2017, the first training class of the GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training Program (STTP) in Hong Kong. GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training in Hong Kong The 3-day training class was hosted at Heritage Lodge (featuring a guest presentation by the lodge manager) led by the following GSTC trainers: Professor Lewis Cheung: Dr. Lewis T.O. Cheung is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Social Sciences of the Education University of Hong Kong. He has received his Master in Geographical Information Systems and Doctor of Philosophy from the University of Hong Kong in 2004 and 2010 respectively. His research interests focus on sustainable tourism with particular emphasis on nature-based tourism in protected areas, environmental education, and environmental conservation. Dr. Alan Wong: Dr. Alan Wong received his PhD from the School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM), The Hong Kong Polytechnic University in 2008. He is currently teaching there for undergraduate and postgraduate courses. His main research interest is in leadership in the hospitality and tourism industry with the cross-cultural perspective. He is an Honor Advisor of Hong Kong Association of Registered Tour Co-ordinators (HARCOT) and he runs different workshops for tour guides in Hong Kong and the Pearl River Delta region. He is also an Honor Advisor for The Tai Po Environmental Association and Fung Yuen Butterfly Reserve, Hong Kong; a board member of Asian Ecotourism Network (AEN). Mr. Derek Tse: Mr. YueTak (Derek) Tse is the General Manager of HKTraveler.com Ltd., Hong Kong with its subsidiaries of Eco Travel Ltd and Hong Kong Ecotourism & Travels Professional Training Centre. With over 10 year's experiences in the field of education and sustainable tourism industry, he specializes in developing sustainable tourism business model, plan and strategy. To contribute to the tourism industry, he is currently the Training Committee Member of Hong Kong Tourism Council and the Recommend Geopark Guide (R2G) of Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark. With participants from around Hong Kong representing a wide range of tourism industry sectors and professional fields – from hotels and hospitality businesses to non-profit conservation organization, to guides and independent professionals – the training class offered valuable opportunities for sharing and strengthening sustainable tourism knowledge and awareness, as well as discussing best practices in implementing specific sustainability actions in the context of tourism in Hong Kong and in Asia.

• GSTC Training: Seychelles Sustainable Tourism Foundation Develops Destination Action Plan
  GSTC Training: Seychelles Sustainable Tourism Foundation Develops Destination Action Plan

  Regions

  Africa

  Lead organization

  The Seychelles Sustainable Tourism Foundation (SSTF) organized a half-day GSTC training (Cerf Island, Seychelles, April 1st, 2017) for its board members and partners to familiarize them with the criteria and discuss their implications for the Seychelles. One of the main aims of the SSTF is to work towards a GSTC destination certification of the Seychelles by 2022. The foundation will use the GSTC criteria as a basis for its action planning, working together with its partners and other stakeholders towards this ambitious goal.

  Objective

  The Seychelles Sustainable Tourism Foundation (SSTF) organized a half-day GSTC training (Cerf Island, Seychelles, April 1st, 2017) for its board members and partners to familiarize them with the criteria and discuss their implications for the Seychelles. One of the main aims of the SSTF is to work towards a GSTC destination certification of the Seychelles by 2022. The foundation will use the GSTC criteria as a basis for its action planning, working together with its partners and other stakeholders towards this ambitious goal. The workshop was held by GSTC trainer Anna Spenceley who presented and discussed the criteria with the training attendees. Discussing the "lifecycle" of destinations, the attendees noted that many islands in the Seychelles are at a crossroad in terms of tourism growth: Some are facing the risk of a declining product and visitor experience due to unsustainable growth; all have the opportunity to rejuvenate by focusing on a sustainable path. Through the training session, SSTF has been able to gather stakeholder feedback on the first areas of the GSTC Destination Criteria to prioritize for action planning and for next steps to be taken by the foundation to build measurable activities and projects. Following the training, SSTF will develop an action plan based on the criteria and the priorities identified by the training attendees, with the long-term goals of developing a Seychelles baseline standard in 2017, and building concrete 5-year development targets and indicators.

  Achievements

  The Seychelles Sustainable Tourism Foundation (SSTF) organized a half-day GSTC training (Cerf Island, Seychelles, April 1st, 2017) for its board members and partners to familiarize them with the criteria and discuss their implications for the Seychelles. One of the main aims of the SSTF is to work towards a GSTC destination certification of the Seychelles by 2022. The foundation will use the GSTC criteria as a basis for its action planning, working together with its partners and other stakeholders towards this ambitious goal. The workshop was held by GSTC trainer Anna Spenceley who presented and discussed the criteria with the training attendees. Discussing the "lifecycle" of destinations, the attendees noted that many islands in the Seychelles are at a crossroad in terms of tourism growth: Some are facing the risk of a declining product and visitor experience due to unsustainable growth; all have the opportunity to rejuvenate by focusing on a sustainable path. Through the training session, SSTF has been able to gather stakeholder feedback on the first areas of the GSTC Destination Criteria to prioritize for action planning and for next steps to be taken by the foundation to build measurable activities and projects. Following the training, SSTF will develop an action plan based on the criteria and the priorities identified by the training attendees, with the long-term goals of developing a Seychelles baseline standard in 2017, and building concrete 5-year development targets and indicators.

• GSTC Training: Sustainable Tourism Training in Athens, Greece
  GSTC Training: Sustainable Tourism Training in Athens, Greece

  Regions

  Europe and Central Asia

  Lead organization

  Green Evolution SA, GSTC Member and Training Partner, organized from 21-23 April 2017 a training class of the GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training Program (STTP) in Athens, Greece. Led by Dr. Ioannis Pappas (CEO and Co-Founder of Green Evolution, GSTC Board Member), the training class was attended by 14 tourism industry professionals from across Greece, as well as other parts of Europe.

  Objective

  Green Evolution SA, GSTC Member and Training Partner, organized from 21-23 April 2017 a training class of the GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training Program (STTP) in Athens, Greece. Led by Dr. Ioannis Pappas (CEO and Co-Founder of Green Evolution, GSTC Board Member), the training class was attended by 14 tourism industry professionals from across Greece, as well as other parts of Europe. The training class featured guest presentations by industry experts representing Local Food Experts, We Do Local Greece, Slovenia Green Destination, Creta Maris Beach Resort, and SIS Woosong University – International Hotel Management Department.

  Achievements

  Green Evolution SA, GSTC Member and Training Partner, organized from 21-23 April 2017 a training class of the GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training Program (STTP) in Athens, Greece. Led by Dr. Ioannis Pappas (CEO and Co-Founder of Green Evolution, GSTC Board Member), the training class was attended by 14 tourism industry professionals from across Greece, as well as other parts of Europe. The training class featured guest presentations by industry experts representing Local Food Experts, We Do Local Greece, Slovenia Green Destination, Creta Maris Beach Resort, and SIS Woosong University – International Hotel Management Department.

• GSTC Training: Sustainable Tourism Training in Washington DC, USA
  GSTC Training: Sustainable Tourism Training in Washington DC, USA

  Regions

  North America

  Lead organization

  The GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training Program (STTP) offered from 11-12 May 2017, a 2-day intensive and interactive training class for an international group of tourism industry professionals from the United States, Canada, Germany, the Philippines and Turkey. The training class was led by Kathleen Pessolano, GSTC Trainer and Destination Program Director, and was hosted in Washington DC with the support of World Wildlife Fund (WWF).

  Objective

  The GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training Program (STTP) offered from 11-12 May 2017, a 2-day intensive and interactive training class for an international group of tourism industry professionals from the United States, Canada, Germany, the Philippines and Turkey. The training class was led by Kathleen Pessolano, GSTC Trainer and Destination Program Director, and was hosted in Washington DC with the support of World Wildlife Fund (WWF). Focused on the GSTC Criteria, the training class covered key topics such as sustainable tourism management at the organization and destination level, and sustainable tourism marketing. Training featured a dialogue with Jessica Pawlik, Manager Tourism Development Services, of the Cayman Islands Department of Tourism. The Cayman Islands has participated in the GSTC Destinations Program since 2015. Ms. Pawlik spoke about how Cayman Islands is applying both the GSTC Criteria for Industry to guide Cayman stakeholder practices, and the GSTC Criteria for Destinations to guide Cayman Islands tourism development. The Cayman Islands underwent a GSTC Destination Evaluation in 2015, and the destination is strategically applying the GSTC recommendations in their national tourism planning strategy, with a particular focus on visitor management.

  Achievements

  The GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training Program (STTP) offered from 11-12 May 2017, a 2-day intensive and interactive training class for an international group of tourism industry professionals from the United States, Canada, Germany, the Philippines and Turkey. The training class was led by Kathleen Pessolano, GSTC Trainer and Destination Program Director, and was hosted in Washington DC with the support of World Wildlife Fund (WWF). Focused on the GSTC Criteria, the training class covered key topics such as sustainable tourism management at the organization and destination level, and sustainable tourism marketing. Training featured a dialogue with Jessica Pawlik, Manager Tourism Development Services, of the Cayman Islands Department of Tourism. The Cayman Islands has participated in the GSTC Destinations Program since 2015. Ms. Pawlik spoke about how Cayman Islands is applying both the GSTC Criteria for Industry to guide Cayman stakeholder practices, and the GSTC Criteria for Destinations to guide Cayman Islands tourism development. The Cayman Islands underwent a GSTC Destination Evaluation in 2015, and the destination is strategically applying the GSTC recommendations in their national tourism planning strategy, with a particular focus on visitor management.

• GSTC Training: Sustainable Tourism Training in Taiwan
  GSTC Training: Sustainable Tourism Training in Taiwan

  Regions

  Asia / Pacific

  Lead organization

  The GSTC Training Partner Globe Ecotourism Training Centre offered from 16-18 June 2017, a 3-day training class of the GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training Program (STTP) in New Taipei City, Taiwan. gstc sustainable tourism training, taiwan Supported by GSTC members, Northeast and Yilan Coast National Scenic Area Administration (Taiwan Tourism Bureau, the Ministry of Transportation and Communications) and Sustainable Travel Taiwan, the training class was attended by 30+ participants, including those sponsored by Taiwan Tourism Bureau, Ministry of Transportation and Communications representing 12 different National Scenic Areas of Taiwan.

  Objective

  The GSTC Training Partner Globe Ecotourism Training Centre offered from 16-18 June 2017, a 3-day training class of the GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training Program (STTP) in New Taipei City, Taiwan. gstc sustainable tourism training, taiwan Supported by GSTC members, Northeast and Yilan Coast National Scenic Area Administration (Taiwan Tourism Bureau, the Ministry of Transportation and Communications) and Sustainable Travel Taiwan, the training class was attended by 30+ participants, including those sponsored by Taiwan Tourism Bureau, Ministry of Transportation and Communications representing 12 different National Scenic Areas of Taiwan. The training class was led by the following GSTC Trainers: Lead Trainer: Steven Fui Cheung (CEO, Infinity Travel Group) Co-Trainers: Dr. Alan Wong (Hong Kong Polytechnic University); Derek Tse (General Manager, HKTraveler.com Ltd) and Dr. Lewis Cheung (Education University of Hong Kong) and included presentations and discussions on the GSTC Criteria and sustainable tourism destination and business best practices, as well as field sessions and group activities.

  Achievements

  The GSTC Training Partner Globe Ecotourism Training Centre offered from 16-18 June 2017, a 3-day training class of the GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training Program (STTP) in New Taipei City, Taiwan. gstc sustainable tourism training, taiwan Supported by GSTC members, Northeast and Yilan Coast National Scenic Area Administration (Taiwan Tourism Bureau, the Ministry of Transportation and Communications) and Sustainable Travel Taiwan, the training class was attended by 30+ participants, including those sponsored by Taiwan Tourism Bureau, Ministry of Transportation and Communications representing 12 different National Scenic Areas of Taiwan. The training class was led by the following GSTC Trainers: Lead Trainer: Steven Fui Cheung (CEO, Infinity Travel Group) Co-Trainers: Dr. Alan Wong (Hong Kong Polytechnic University); Derek Tse (General Manager, HKTraveler.com Ltd) and Dr. Lewis Cheung (Education University of Hong Kong) and included presentations and discussions on the GSTC Criteria and sustainable tourism destination and business best practices, as well as field sessions and group activities.

• GSTC Training Partner ETTC Delivers Another STTP Class in Hong Kong
  GSTC Training Partner ETTC Delivers Another STTP Class in Hong Kong

  Regions

  Asia / Pacific

  Lead organization

  Through our training partner, Hong Kong Ecotourism & Travels Professional Training Centre (香港生態旅遊專業培訓中心 ETTC), a 3-day training class (25-27 Oct 2017) of the GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training Program (STTP) was delivered in Hong Kong, covering best practices in implementing the GSTC Criteria for businesses and destinations.

  Objective

  GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training in Hong Kong, 25-27 October 2017 Through our training partner, Hong Kong Ecotourism & Travels Professional Training Centre (香港生態旅遊專業培訓中心 ETTC), a 3-day training class (25-27 Oct 2017) of the GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training Program (STTP) was delivered in Hong Kong, covering best practices in implementing the GSTC Criteria for businesses and destinations. This training class was led by the following GSTC Trainers: Dr. Alan Wong: Dr. Alan Wong received his PhD from the School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM), The Hong Kong Polytechnic University in 2008. He is currently teaching there for undergraduate and postgraduate courses. His main research interest is in leadership in the hospitality and tourism industry with the cross-cultural perspective. He also interested in researching tour guiding and ecotour guiding. Mr. Derek Tse: Mr. YueTak (Derek) Tse is the General Manager of HKTraveler.com Ltd., Hong Kong with its subsidiaries of Eco Travel Ltd and Hong Kong Ecotourism & Travels Professional Training Centre. With over 10 year's experiences in the field of education and sustainable tourism industry, he specializes in developing sustainable tourism business model, plan and strategy. To contribute to the tourism industry, he is currently the Training Committee Member of Hong Kong Tourism Council and the Recommend Geopark Guide (R2G) of Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark. Dr. Lewis Cheung: Dr. Lewis T.O. Cheung is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Social Sciences of the Education University of Hong Kong. He has received his Master in Geographical Information Systems and Doctor of Philosophy from the University of Hong Kong in 2004 and 2010 respectively. His research interests focus on sustainable tourism with particular emphasis on nature-based tourism in protected areas, environmental education, and environmental conservation. Mr. Steven Cheung: Mr. Fui (Steven) Cheung is the Founder of The Globe Ecotourism Training Centre and the Chief Development Consultant of HKTraveler.com Ltd with its subsidiaries of Hong Kong Ecotravel Ltd and Hong Kong Ecotourism & Travels Professional Training Centre. Steven has been focusing on building a strong corporate infrastructure, with sustainable tourism development as the core mission and corporate values, working with his international team of more than 100 professionals.

  Achievements

  GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training in Hong Kong, 25-27 October 2017 Through our training partner, Hong Kong Ecotourism & Travels Professional Training Centre (香港生態旅遊專業培訓中心 ETTC), a 3-day training class (25-27 Oct 2017) of the GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training Program (STTP) was delivered in Hong Kong, covering best practices in implementing the GSTC Criteria for businesses and destinations. This training class was led by the following GSTC Trainers: Dr. Alan Wong: Dr. Alan Wong received his PhD from the School of Hotel and Tourism Management (SHTM), The Hong Kong Polytechnic University in 2008. He is currently teaching there for undergraduate and postgraduate courses. His main research interest is in leadership in the hospitality and tourism industry with the cross-cultural perspective. He also interested in researching tour guiding and ecotour guiding. Mr. Derek Tse: Mr. YueTak (Derek) Tse is the General Manager of HKTraveler.com Ltd., Hong Kong with its subsidiaries of Eco Travel Ltd and Hong Kong Ecotourism & Travels Professional Training Centre. With over 10 year's experiences in the field of education and sustainable tourism industry, he specializes in developing sustainable tourism business model, plan and strategy. To contribute to the tourism industry, he is currently the Training Committee Member of Hong Kong Tourism Council and the Recommend Geopark Guide (R2G) of Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark. Dr. Lewis Cheung: Dr. Lewis T.O. Cheung is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Social Sciences of the Education University of Hong Kong. He has received his Master in Geographical Information Systems and Doctor of Philosophy from the University of Hong Kong in 2004 and 2010 respectively. His research interests focus on sustainable tourism with particular emphasis on nature-based tourism in protected areas, environmental education, and environmental conservation. Mr. Steven Cheung: Mr. Fui (Steven) Cheung is the Founder of The Globe Ecotourism Training Centre and the Chief Development Consultant of HKTraveler.com Ltd with its subsidiaries of Hong Kong Ecotravel Ltd and Hong Kong Ecotourism & Travels Professional Training Centre. Steven has been focusing on building a strong corporate infrastructure, with sustainable tourism development as the core mission and corporate values, working with his international team of more than 100 professionals.

• The Chelenko Destination prepares to offer more sustainable tourism with a GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training and Destination Assessment
  The Chelenko Destination prepares to offer more sustainable tourism with a GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training and Destination Assessment

  Regions

  Latin America / Caribbean

  Lead organization

  In a special agreement between GSTC and Sernatur Aysen, Chile, which hosted the GSTC2017 Aysen in September, the Chelenko Destination began a new process to start their path to the sustainability. In Puerto Ibañez, a small village in Chelenko Destination, GSTC conducted a 2-day training, applying the Sustainable Tourism Training Program (STTP) and teaching different stakeholders in the destination about the GSTC Destination Criteria. This training also included different stages in the process of implementing the GSTC Criteria.

  Objective

  In a special agreement between GSTC and Sernatur Aysen, Chile, which hosted the GSTC2017 Aysen in September, the Chelenko Destination began a new process to start their path to the sustainability. For 2 weeks during November 2017, the Chelenko Destination went through a destination assessment and training by Natalia Naranjo, GSTC Trainer and Destination Assessor. Located in the south of Chile, in the Region of Aysen, Chelenko covers the basin of the General Carrera Lake (the second biggest lake in South America) and its surroundings. Chelenko is home to the famous Marble Caves of Puerto Tranquilo and Puerto Sanchez, the Jeinimeni National Park and part of San Rafael National Park. For such a destination, developing sustainable tourism is more than a vision or an objective, it is a necessity due to the huge increase of tourists over the past two years, while the local people and villages were not prepared to receiving them. In Puerto Ibañez, a small village in Chelenko Destination, GSTC conducted a 2-day training, applying the Sustainable Tourism Training Program (STTP) and teaching different stakeholders in the destination about the GSTC Destination Criteria. This training also included different stages in the process of implementing the GSTC Criteria. After the training, the GSTC Assessor, Natalia Naranjo, began the assessment of the destination, meeting with the mayors, and with the many representatives of tourism business such as hotels, tour operator, guides, etc. The visit ended on November 29th in Chile Chico village, with a presentation of the preliminary results of the assessment.

  Achievements

  In a special agreement between GSTC and Sernatur Aysen, Chile, which hosted the GSTC2017 Aysen in September, the Chelenko Destination began a new process to start their path to the sustainability. For 2 weeks during November 2017, the Chelenko Destination went through a destination assessment and training by Natalia Naranjo, GSTC Trainer and Destination Assessor. Located in the south of Chile, in the Region of Aysen, Chelenko covers the basin of the General Carrera Lake (the second biggest lake in South America) and its surroundings. Chelenko is home to the famous Marble Caves of Puerto Tranquilo and Puerto Sanchez, the Jeinimeni National Park and part of San Rafael National Park. For such a destination, developing sustainable tourism is more than a vision or an objective, it is a necessity due to the huge increase of tourists over the past two years, while the local people and villages were not prepared to receiving them. In Puerto Ibañez, a small village in Chelenko Destination, GSTC conducted a 2-day training, applying the Sustainable Tourism Training Program (STTP) and teaching different stakeholders in the destination about the GSTC Destination Criteria. This training also included different stages in the process of implementing the GSTC Criteria. After the training, the GSTC Assessor, Natalia Naranjo, began the assessment of the destination, meeting with the mayors, and with the many representatives of tourism business such as hotels, tour operator, guides, etc. The visit ended on November 29th in Chile Chico village, with a presentation of the preliminary results of the assessment.

• Sustainable Tourism Training Program - 2017 Online Courses
  Sustainable Tourism Training Program - 2017 Online Courses

  Regions

  Online activity

  Lead organization

  The GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training Program (STTP) offers practical insights and effective steps to help you improve your sustainability practices.

  Objective

  In 2017, we took an important step to expand the reach of STTP; adding online training class options, which has allowed for more participants, including those in locations where onsite training classes are not yet available, to take advantage of the training opportunity. In addition, we've offered need-based discounts, granting significantly discounted access to the training program for those who demonstrate genuine need, for example, tourism professionals from Least Developed Countries. As part of the GSTC's efforts to support and contribute to the goals of IY2017, the STTP kick-started the year with the goal of training 300 industry professionals in sustainable tourism standards, helping them implement sustainability best practices within their own companies and destinations. We are proud to share that working with our international team of trainers and partners, we have met and exceeded this goal. Throughout the year, the STTP offered 18 training sessions (3 online courses and 15 face-to-face classes) around the world, attended by a total of over 400 tourism industry professionals from 54 countries.

  Achievements

  In 2017, we took an important step to expand the reach of STTP; adding online training class options, which has allowed for more participants, including those in locations where onsite training classes are not yet available, to take advantage of the training opportunity. In addition, we've offered need-based discounts, granting significantly discounted access to the training program for those who demonstrate genuine need, for example, tourism professionals from Least Developed Countries. As part of the GSTC's efforts to support and contribute to the goals of IY2017, the STTP kick-started the year with the goal of training 300 industry professionals in sustainable tourism standards, helping them implement sustainability best practices within their own companies and destinations. We are proud to share that working with our international team of trainers and partners, we have met and exceeded this goal. Throughout the year, the STTP offered 18 training sessions (3 online courses and 15 face-to-face classes) around the world, attended by a total of over 400 tourism industry professionals from 54 countries.

• Sustainable Tourism Training in Bangkok, Thailand, March 2018
  Sustainable Tourism Training in Bangkok, Thailand, March 2018

  Regions

  Asia / Pacific

  Lead organization

  The GSTC, in partnership with the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), offered a 3-day intensive and interactive training program from 26-28 March 2018 in Bangkok, Thailand. The training was attended by 30 industry professionals from Thailand and Southeast Asia (Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines, Myanmar, Indonesia) and beyond. Based on the GSTC Criteria, the global baseline standard for sustainability in travel and tourism, the training covered sustainability best practices for businesses and destinations, as well as key topics such as global trends in sustainable tourism, sustainability marketing, and sustainable tourism product development and management. In addition to the trainers representing the GSTC – Dr. Mihee Kang (GSTC Country Representative for South Korea and Asia Pacific Program Director), Randy Durband (GSTC CEO) and Benjamin Lephilibert (Member of the GSTC Standards Working Group) – the training class featured guest expert presentations by: Gabriela Kühn, Head of Programme against Sexual Exploitation of Children in Travel and Tourism (SECTT) Gili Back, Sustainability Manager, Khiri Travel Thailand and Executive Director, Khiri Reach Networking is a key part of the benefits of participating in the training. The GSTC training class in Bangkok, with participants from 12 countries and with a diverse mix of industry sectors and professional fields represented, offered valuable networking and professional development opportunities. During the training, representatives of two island destinations, Seychelles and Vanuatu, both members of the GSTC, announced collaboration focusing on their shared sustainability challenges and opportunities. From these two island nations, the following organizations were represented at the Bangkok training class: Seychelles Sustainable Tourism Foundation (SSTF), the Seychelles Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Ports and Marine – Tourism Department, and Vanuatu Department of Tourism. The training also included a hands-on onsite sustainability tour of Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok, learning about various sustainability practices implemented at the hotel, plus a presentation by the hotel team on their "green" projects.

  Objective

  The GSTC, in partnership with the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), offered a 3-day intensive and interactive training program from 26-28 March 2018 in Bangkok, Thailand. The training was attended by 30 industry professionals from Thailand and Southeast Asia (Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines, Myanmar, Indonesia) and beyond. Based on the GSTC Criteria, the global baseline standard for sustainability in travel and tourism, the training covered sustainability best practices for businesses and destinations, as well as key topics such as global trends in sustainable tourism, sustainability marketing, and sustainable tourism product development and management. In addition to the trainers representing the GSTC – Dr. Mihee Kang (GSTC Country Representative for South Korea and Asia Pacific Program Director), Randy Durband (GSTC CEO) and Benjamin Lephilibert (Member of the GSTC Standards Working Group) – the training class featured guest expert presentations by: Gabriela Kühn, Head of Programme against Sexual Exploitation of Children in Travel and Tourism (SECTT) Gili Back, Sustainability Manager, Khiri Travel Thailand and Executive Director, Khiri Reach Networking is a key part of the benefits of participating in the training. The GSTC training class in Bangkok, with participants from 12 countries and with a diverse mix of industry sectors and professional fields represented, offered valuable networking and professional development opportunities. During the training, representatives of two island destinations, Seychelles and Vanuatu, both members of the GSTC, announced collaboration focusing on their shared sustainability challenges and opportunities. From these two island nations, the following organizations were represented at the Bangkok training class: Seychelles Sustainable Tourism Foundation (SSTF), the Seychelles Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Ports and Marine – Tourism Department, and Vanuatu Department of Tourism. The training also included a hands-on onsite sustainability tour of Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok, learning about various sustainability practices implemented at the hotel, plus a presentation by the hotel team on their "green" projects.

  Achievements

  The GSTC, in partnership with the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA), offered a 3-day intensive and interactive training program from 26-28 March 2018 in Bangkok, Thailand. The training was attended by 30 industry professionals from Thailand and Southeast Asia (Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines, Myanmar, Indonesia) and beyond. Based on the GSTC Criteria, the global baseline standard for sustainability in travel and tourism, the training covered sustainability best practices for businesses and destinations, as well as key topics such as global trends in sustainable tourism, sustainability marketing, and sustainable tourism product development and management. In addition to the trainers representing the GSTC – Dr. Mihee Kang (GSTC Country Representative for South Korea and Asia Pacific Program Director), Randy Durband (GSTC CEO) and Benjamin Lephilibert (Member of the GSTC Standards Working Group) – the training class featured guest expert presentations by: Gabriela Kühn, Head of Programme against Sexual Exploitation of Children in Travel and Tourism (SECTT) Gili Back, Sustainability Manager, Khiri Travel Thailand and Executive Director, Khiri Reach Networking is a key part of the benefits of participating in the training. The GSTC training class in Bangkok, with participants from 12 countries and with a diverse mix of industry sectors and professional fields represented, offered valuable networking and professional development opportunities. During the training, representatives of two island destinations, Seychelles and Vanuatu, both members of the GSTC, announced collaboration focusing on their shared sustainability challenges and opportunities. From these two island nations, the following organizations were represented at the Bangkok training class: Seychelles Sustainable Tourism Foundation (SSTF), the Seychelles Ministry of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Ports and Marine – Tourism Department, and Vanuatu Department of Tourism. The training also included a hands-on onsite sustainability tour of Chatrium Hotel Riverside Bangkok, learning about various sustainability practices implemented at the hotel, plus a presentation by the hotel team on their "green" projects.

• Sustainable Tourism Training Program - 2018 Online Courses
  Sustainable Tourism Training Program - 2018 Online Courses

  Regions

  Online activity

  Lead organization

  The GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training Program (STTP) offers practical insights and effective steps to help you improve your sustainability practices. Delivered as facilitated 4-week courses, they combine self-paced learning, hands-on activities, and interactive components to enhance learning results.

  Objective

  In 2018, we continued to expand the reach of STTP through online training class options, which has allowed for more participants, including those in locations where onsite training classes are not yet available, to take advantage of the training opportunity. In addition, we've offered need-based discounts, granting significantly discounted access to the training program for those who demonstrate genuine need, for example, tourism professionals from Least Developed Countries. We are proud to share that working with our international team of trainers and partners, we have met and exceeded this goal. Throughout the year, the STTP offered 20 training sessions (3 online courses and 17 face-to-face classes) around the world, attended by a total of over 400 tourism industry professionals.

  Achievements

  In 2018, we continued to expand the reach of STTP through online training class options, which has allowed for more participants, including those in locations where onsite training classes are not yet available, to take advantage of the training opportunity. In addition, we've offered need-based discounts, granting significantly discounted access to the training program for those who demonstrate genuine need, for example, tourism professionals from Least Developed Countries. We are proud to share that working with our international team of trainers and partners, we have met and exceeded this goal. Throughout the year, the STTP offered 20 training sessions (3 online courses and 17 face-to-face classes) around the world, attended by a total of over 400 tourism industry professionals.

• GSTC Training in Pattaya, Thailand with Mae Fah Luang University
  GSTC Training in Pattaya, Thailand with Mae Fah Luang University

  Regions

  Asia / Pacific

  Lead organization

  GSTC

  Objective

  The GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training Program (STTP) offered a 3-day training class for representatives of Mae Fah Luang University (28-30 September 2018). The training was attended by an interdisciplinary group of professionals representing various fields including architecture, law, environmental science and business management. The training was delivered by Dr. Mihee Kang (GSTC Trainer and Asia Pacific Program Director), along with Randy Durband (GSTC Chief Executive Officer) and guest expert presenters Supaporn Prachumpai (Board Member, Asian Ecotourism Network), Dr. Jaturong Pokharatsiri (Instructor and Researcher at Thammasat University, Faculty of Architecture and Planning), and Elske de Vries (Product, Strategy and Compliance Director, Khiri Travel Thailand). Mae Fah Luang University, located in the province of Chiang Rai Province in northern Thailand, works closely with DASTA (Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration), the government agency dedicated to creating, developing and promoting sustainable tourism around Thailand. DASTA is a GSTC Training Partner.

  Achievements

  The GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training Program (STTP) offered a 3-day training class for representatives of Mae Fah Luang University (28-30 September 2018). The training was attended by an interdisciplinary group of professionals representing various fields including architecture, law, environmental science and business management. The training was delivered by Dr. Mihee Kang (GSTC Trainer and Asia Pacific Program Director), along with Randy Durband (GSTC Chief Executive Officer) and guest expert presenters Supaporn Prachumpai (Board Member, Asian Ecotourism Network), Dr. Jaturong Pokharatsiri (Instructor and Researcher at Thammasat University, Faculty of Architecture and Planning), and Elske de Vries (Product, Strategy and Compliance Director, Khiri Travel Thailand). Mae Fah Luang University, located in the province of Chiang Rai Province in northern Thailand, works closely with DASTA (Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration), the government agency dedicated to creating, developing and promoting sustainable tourism around Thailand. DASTA is a GSTC Training Partner.

• GSTC Training in Vail, CO, USA with Walking Mountains Science Center
  GSTC Training in Vail, CO, USA with Walking Mountains Science Center

  Regions

  North America

  Lead organization

  Walking Mountains Science Center

  Objective

  The GSTC Training Partner Walking Mountains Science Center delivered a 2-day training class of the GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training Program (STTP) from October 25-26, 2018, led by Dr. Kim Langmaid, GSTC Trainer and the Founder of the Walking Mountains Science Center. The training class was attended by local and regional tourism industry stakeholders, representing both the public and private sectors. Focusing on key issues, challenges and best practices related to mountain tourism, nature-based tourism and destination management, the training covered the global standard – the GSTC Criteria as the baseline standard for sustainability in travel and tourism – and practical examples from local, national and international destinations. Vail, Colorado is a premier international mountain resort community, and it has partnered with Walking Mountains Science Center and Sustainable Travel International to become the first sustainable mountain resort destination in the world and the first Certified Sustainable Destination in the United States certified by a GSTC-Accredited certifying body, Green Destinations. The Walking Mountains Science Center will be delivering two STTP training classes in 2019: January 17 & 31, 2019: Breckenridge, Colorado (contact kiml [at] walkingmountains.org for details) October 24-25, 2019: Vail, Colorado (online registration available)

  Achievements

  The GSTC Training Partner Walking Mountains Science Center delivered a 2-day training class of the GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training Program (STTP) from October 25-26, 2018, led by Dr. Kim Langmaid, GSTC Trainer and the Founder of the Walking Mountains Science Center. The training class was attended by local and regional tourism industry stakeholders, representing both the public and private sectors. Focusing on key issues, challenges and best practices related to mountain tourism, nature-based tourism and destination management, the training covered the global standard – the GSTC Criteria as the baseline standard for sustainability in travel and tourism – and practical examples from local, national and international destinations. Vail, Colorado is a premier international mountain resort community, and it has partnered with Walking Mountains Science Center and Sustainable Travel International to become the first sustainable mountain resort destination in the world and the first Certified Sustainable Destination in the United States certified by a GSTC-Accredited certifying body, Green Destinations. The Walking Mountains Science Center will be delivering two STTP training classes in 2019: January 17 & 31, 2019: Breckenridge, Colorado (contact kiml [at] walkingmountains.org for details) October 24-25, 2019: Vail, Colorado (online registration available)

• GSTC Training in Sanur, Bali, Indonesia with MarkPlus Center for Tourism and Hospitality
  GSTC Training in Sanur, Bali, Indonesia with MarkPlus Center for Tourism and Hospitality

  Regions

  Asia / Pacific

  Lead organization

  GSTC

  Objective

  The GSTC has partnered with the MarkPlus Center for Tourism & Hospitality to deliver a 3-day training class of the GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training Program (STTP), from 29-31 October 2018, in Sanur, Bali, Indonesia (co-hosted by Griya Santrian Hotel). Led by GSTC Trainer and Asia Pacific Program Director Dr. Mihee Kang, the training class also featured presentations by co-trainers representing MarkPlus – Mr. Mochamad Nalendra (Executive Director, MarkPlus Center for Tourism and Hospitality) and Mr. Abdullah Alaydrus (Senior Associate Consultant, MarkPlus Center for Tourism and Hospitality) – as well as guest speakers: I Made Suarnatha, Jaringan Ekowisata Desa (JED – "Village Ecotourism Network") Alex Tsuk, Founder, BGreener I Wayan Karioka, Managing Director, Nusa Dua Itdc Ida Bagus Gede Sidharta Putra, Director, Sanur Development Foundation On the third day of the training class, the participant joined a hands-on bicycle tour of Sanur, learning about various sustainability practices implemented within the destination.

  Achievements

  The GSTC has partnered with the MarkPlus Center for Tourism & Hospitality to deliver a 3-day training class of the GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training Program (STTP), from 29-31 October 2018, in Sanur, Bali, Indonesia (co-hosted by Griya Santrian Hotel). Led by GSTC Trainer and Asia Pacific Program Director Dr. Mihee Kang, the training class also featured presentations by co-trainers representing MarkPlus – Mr. Mochamad Nalendra (Executive Director, MarkPlus Center for Tourism and Hospitality) and Mr. Abdullah Alaydrus (Senior Associate Consultant, MarkPlus Center for Tourism and Hospitality) – as well as guest speakers: I Made Suarnatha, Jaringan Ekowisata Desa (JED – "Village Ecotourism Network") Alex Tsuk, Founder, BGreener I Wayan Karioka, Managing Director, Nusa Dua Itdc Ida Bagus Gede Sidharta Putra, Director, Sanur Development Foundation On the third day of the training class, the participant joined a hands-on bicycle tour of Sanur, learning about various sustainability practices implemented within the destination.

• GSTC Training Report: Sustainable Tourism Training by the Botswana Tourism Organization
  GSTC Training Report: Sustainable Tourism Training by the Botswana Tourism Organization

  Regions

  Africa

  Lead organization

  Botswana Tourism Organisation

  Objective

  From 19-23 March 2018, GSTC Training Partner Botswana Tourism Organization (BTO) conducted a training class of the GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training Program (STTP), engaging 17 participants representing various units of BTO, including Ecotoursim Officers (Quality Services Department), Environment & Safety Officer (Environment & Eco-certification Division) and Grading Officers (Grading Division). The training class was led by the GSTC-Authorized Trainers Ms. Tshoganetso Carl-Ponoesele (Tourism Development Manager) and Mr. Thatayaone Mmapatsi (Senior Grading Assessor), as well as Mr. Mafila Richard Malesu (Environment & Eco-Certification Manager), and included a guest presentation by Mr. Mokganedi Ntana (Tourism Development Manager). The training also served as an opportunity to discuss the Botswana Ecotourism Certification System (BECS) Ecotourism Standard, and where revisions or adjustments might be needed according to the GSTC Criteria. One such area highlighted by the training participants was the need to patent community products in order to protect the local intellectual property rights and to appropriately promote indigenous knowledge as part of tourism experience. The training also included an onsite hands-on session at Chobe Game Lodge, an Ecotourism-certified safari lodge located inside the Chobe National Park. The Chobe Lodge manager and Mr. Albert Ndereki (who is the longest serving employee and the custodian of sustainability activities at Chobe) guided the training group through various sustainability practices implemented at the lodge, including the grey water reuse program and the solid waste recycling program.

  Achievements

  From 19-23 March 2018, GSTC Training Partner Botswana Tourism Organization (BTO) conducted a training class of the GSTC Sustainable Tourism Training Program (STTP), engaging 17 participants representing various units of BTO, including Ecotoursim Officers (Quality Services Department), Environment & Safety Officer (Environment & Eco-certification Division) and Grading Officers (Grading Division). The training class was led by the GSTC-Authorized Trainers Ms. Tshoganetso Carl-Ponoesele (Tourism Development Manager) and Mr. Thatayaone Mmapatsi (Senior Grading Assessor), as well as Mr. Mafila Richard Malesu (Environment & Eco-Certification Manager), and included a guest presentation by Mr. Mokganedi Ntana (Tourism Development Manager). The training also served as an opportunity to discuss the Botswana Ecotourism Certification System (BECS) Ecotourism Standard, and where revisions or adjustments might be needed according to the GSTC Criteria. One such area highlighted by the training participants was the need to patent community products in order to protect the local intellectual property rights and to appropriately promote indigenous knowledge as part of tourism experience. The training also included an onsite hands-on session at Chobe Game Lodge, an Ecotourism-certified safari lodge located inside the Chobe National Park. The Chobe Lodge manager and Mr. Albert Ndereki (who is the longest serving employee and the custodian of sustainability activities at Chobe) guided the training group through various sustainability practices implemented at the lodge, including the grey water reuse program and the solid waste recycling program.