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ATU and Donegal County Council host TAAS Interreg Europe study visit in Letterkenny
Atlantic Technological University (ATU) and Donegal County Council welcomed ten international partners to Donegal on 18 September 2024 for a study visit as part of the TAAS (Tourism as a Service) Project, funded by Interreg Europe.
Atlantic Technological University (ATU) and Donegal County Council welcomed ten international partners to Donegal on 18 September 2024 for a study visit as part of the TAAS (Tourism as a Service) Project, funded by Interreg Europe.
The project, led by the Centre for Research and Technology Hellas in Greece, included partners from Finland, Sweden, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Slovenia, Moldova, and Ireland.
TAAS aims to accelerate the digitalisation of the tourism sector, driving smarter and more sustainable development across Europe. The project adopts a comprehensive “tourism as a whole” approach, focusing on developing digital tools to address the needs and concerns of all tourism stakeholders while promoting sustainability and responsible tourism practices.
The day’s events began with a series of expert presentations at ATU Letterkenny, covering key topics in sustainable tourism and digital transformation.
Presentations included:
- Donegal County Council: Sustainable Tourism Strategy, TEBEX, and Donegal DNA
- Dr James Hanrahan, ATU: The INSTO Observatory at ATU
- Therese Maher, Fáilte Ireland: Digital that Delivers
- Steven Perry, Donegal Local Enterprise Office: Green for Business
- Stephen McPeak: Civic Dollar
- Margaret Quinn and Catriona Strain, ERNACT: Donegal Digital and the TIDE Project
The participants visited the renowned Fanad Lighthouse and experienced the innovative VR exhibit ‘The Storm, The Sea – The Saldanha’. This immersive experience highlights how digital tourism can enhance storytelling and visitor engagement, showcasing the integration of cutting-edge technology in promoting local heritage.
Dr James Hanrahan, Lecturer in Tourism Management at ATU, commented on the significance of the study visit:
“Hosting this study visit with Donegal County Council was a fantastic opportunity to share knowledge and insights with our European partners. By embracing digital tools and sustainable practices, we can shape the future of tourism, ensuring it remains both innovative and responsible.”
Photo caption: The participants visited Fanad Lighthouse as part of their study visit.
Ivana Hanjs
Communications Officer
Ollscoil Teicneolaíochta an Atlantaigh (OTA), Éire
Atlantic Technological University (ATU), Ireland
Tel: +353 89 963 9559
E: ivana.hanjs@atu.ie
