The Faculty of Tourism and Hospitality Management is delighted to announce the successful conclusion of the kick-off meeting for the CROCUS project, held from April 22 to 24, 2024, at Aalborg University. CROCUS, an acronym for “Cultural and Creative Tourism in Rural and Remote Areas: Sustainable Business Models, Cooperation, and Policies,” sets out to revitalize rural and remote areas (RRA) by leveraging the potential of cultural and creative tourism (CCT).
The meeting witnessed dynamic discussions and collaborative efforts among project partners from across Europe, laying the groundwork for innovative solutions to the socio-economic challenges faced by RRAs. Participants delved into the project’s key objectives, strategies, and anticipated outcomes, showcasing a shared commitment to fostering sustainable development in these regions.
Key highlights of the kick-off meeting include:
• Strategic Planning: Partners engaged in strategic planning sessions to outline the project’s roadmap, defining clear objectives and milestones for the upcoming phases.
• Knowledge Exchange: Scholars and practitioners exchanged insights and experiences, contributing valuable perspectives on the challenges and opportunities inherent in promoting CCT in RRAs.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Discussions emphasized the importance of stakeholder engagement and collaboration at local, regional, and international levels to ensure the success and sustainability of project initiatives.
Henrik Halkier, Project Coordinator and Professor at the Department of Culture and Learning, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, University of Aalborg, expressed his enthusiasm for the project’s potential impact, stating, “The kick-off meeting marks the beginning of an exciting journey towards revitalizing rural areas through cultural and creative tourism. With the collective expertise and dedication of our partners, we are poised to drive positive change and create lasting benefits for these communities.”
Looking ahead, the CROCUS project will embark on a series of activities aimed at generating knowledge, developing innovative business models, and formulating policy recommendations to support sustainable tourism development in RRAs. Through collaborative efforts and interdisciplinary approaches, the project aims to unlock the untapped potential of cultural heritage as a driver of economic growth and social cohesion in rural and remote areas across Europe.
For media inquiries and further information about the CROCUS project, please visit web of Faculty.
