The course examines the concepts of governance, development, branding and region in connection with tourism.

The course, specifically, explores the associated policies, governance systems, the relationship between the public and the private sectors and the stakeholder groups involved in the decision-making process on international, European, state and local levels. Good practices for the crafting and implementation of tourism development strategies are sought, and their benefits for the national and regional economy and for specific tourism and commercial sectors are highlighted. Emphasis is on periods of crises (e.g. economic, and pandemic).

Upon the completion of the course, the students are expected to:

-have a sufficient knowledge of the theoretical principles and the planning process methodology for the crafting and implementation of regional tourism policy and development

-recognise the importance of involving the local community in the process of crafting and implementing regional tourism policy and development

-be in the position to be part of a management team that is responsible for the crafting and implementation of regional tourism policy and development

1. Concepts: space, region, policy and development; and their connection with tourism
2. Theories and models of space development
3. Governance systems, the relationship between the public and the private sectors, stakeholders
4. The importance of branding in regional tourism development
5. Planning process methodology for the crafting and implementation of regional tourism policy and development (A)
6. Planning process methodology for the crafting and implementation of regional tourism policy and development (B)
7. Managing revenues at the planningprocess methodology. Emphasis on the periods of crises (e.g. economic, and pandemic).
8. The importance of the involvement of the local community in the planning process methodology.
9. The role of the licensed tour guide as a vehicle of tourism policy and development
10. Good practices: analysis of case studies from the European Union
11. Good practices: analysis of case studies outside the European Union
12. Good practices: analysis of case studies from Greece
13. Student projects: presentation, and discussion

-Bitsani, E. 2004. Cultural Management and Regional Development. Maria Tsakouridou publishing house. In Greek

-Karachalis N. & Poulios I. (eds.) 2015, Athens, Modern Capital and Historic City: Challenges for Heritage Management at Times of Crisis, PHAROS Journal. Athens: Netherlands Institute of Athens. Open access: https://poj.peeters-leuven.be/content.php?url=issue&journal_code=PHA&issue=1&vol=21

-Lectures by the coordinator, invited lectures, presentation of exercises and projects by the students

-Connection of theory with case studies from Greece and internationally

-Video trailers on tourism promotion of various regions

-Use of powerpoint at the lectures

-Making use of the course portal, for the uploading of teaching material

-Email for the communication with students

-A combination of exercises, projects, and exams