PANTOUR at the INC Conference in Amsterdam, 5-7 June 2024

From June 5 to 7, 2024, the THE INC Conference took place at the Hotelschool The Hague, Amsterdam Campus, drawing professionals, academics, and industry leaders from around the world. The conference revolved around the leading theme, “Technology Enabled Competitiveness and Experiences in Tourism, Hospitality and Events.”

Stanislav Ivanov from Zangador Research Institute and Corné Dijkmans from Breda University of Applied Sciences, both members of the PANTOUR team, participated in a panel discussion on the innovation and future of tourism and hospitality. The panel was moderated by Elena Michopoulou, and featured other renowned academics, like Dimitrios Buhalis, Juho Pesonen, Silvia De Ascaniis, and Ian Yeoman.

The conversation highlighted that although AI and technology can significantly enhance operational capabilities and customer experiences, the heart of the industry lies in its people. The ability to integrate new technologies effectively and ethically requires a workforce that is not only technically proficient but also adaptable, creative, and socially conscious. The panellists agreed that while artificial intelligence and other technologies will undoubtedly drive innovation and efficiency, the true catalyst for sustainable tourism future will be the development of skilled, proactive human professionals.

Finally, in the midst of rapid technological advancements, the focus should remain on empowering individuals to leverage these tools effectively, ensuring a balanced approach that combines technological skills with human intelligence.