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The Network Consolidation Workshop, held in Ruse (Bulgaria), brought together partners representatives from 7 Danube countries - Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Germany, Moldova, Serbia, Slovenia and Romania. Highlights of the event were discussions about the state-of-the-art of the Danube Guides Network, as well as future developments and perspectives. 

The Intensification course provided participants with a unique opportunity to enhance their skills, network with peers, and gain valuable insights into the latest trends in tourism. Through a combination of theoretical sessions, practical workshops, networking gamens and cultural tours, participants explored topics such as inclusion, sustainability and innovative tourism practices.

Key highlights of the course included:

• Expert-Led Training: Renowned industry experts shared their knowledge and experience on various aspects of tourism, including 3D modelling into tourism.
• Cultural Immersions: Participants delved into the rich history and culture of the Danube region through visits to historical sites in Ruse and traditional villages (Tutrakan village)
• Networking Opportunities: The course facilitated networking and collaboration among Danube Guides, fostering stronger professional relationships.
• Certification: Successful participants, who had successfully the exam in the online course held during the summer, received official Danube Guides certification, recognizing their commitment to excellence in tourism.

"We are thrilled with the success of the Transnational Intensification Course," said Mrs. Desislava Mincheva-Yordanova from the event organisers from National Tourism Cluster "Bulgarian Guide". "This event has empowered Danube Guides to deliver exceptional tourism experiences and contribute to the sustainable development of the region."

On the first day of the Transnational Course, the international Danube Guides were welcomed by Mrs. Gergana Doneva from the Municipality of Ruse, who highlighted the importance of the guides and revealed some hidden gems about the culture and traditions in the town of Ruse. 

On the next day, one of the highlights was exploring the historic Fishermen's Quarter in the village of Tutrakan, a place steeped in tradition and maritime heritage. This immersive experience, spiced up with the unique performances of the local community center, provided valuable insights into the region's cultural identity and historical significance.

The experiences of the participants were further enriched with a visit to the Regional Museum of History, a tour to the Ship Sofia and it's marvelous story, as well as a city tour revealing the secrets of the "Little Vienna". 

The event ended with an extremely interesting and inspiring workshop on "Innovations in Tourism", in which Prof. Dr. Plamen Zahariev from Ruse University "Angel Kanchev" presented various technological tools for promotion of cultural heritage, as well as 3D modeling and reconstruction of cultural landmarks.  

By investing in our guides, we're investing in the future of the Danube region's tourism industry!

National Tourism Cluster "Bulgarian Guide" remains committed to supporting the growth and development of the tourism industry in Bulgaria and the Danube Region. By organizing such events, the organisation aims to foster innovation, enhance professionalism, and promote sustainable tourism practices.

About National Tourism Cluster "Bulgarian Guide": National Tourism Cluster „Bulgarian Guide” (NTC BG Guide) is a tourist and a destination management organisation focused on sustainable and responsible tourism development, encouraging environmentally friendly behavior and environment protection, cultural heritage valorisation, and promotion of specialised types of tourism. One of its aims is the integration of sustainability principles in the tourism industry. It is active in innovations, digitalisation, gamification, entrepreneurial and educational/capacity building initiatives in tourism, etc. Its mission is linked to the needs of the tourist related SMEs/stakeholders and communities, and the “seeking” tourists, looking for authentic experiences, especially in rural and remote areas.

About the Danube Guides Network: The Danube Guides network is an association of partners from seven European countries and guest and nature tour guides with the goal to protect and promote natural heritage and cultural treasures along the Danube and to preserve the environment. By providing training and support to tourism professionals the network aims to raise awareness and sensitize the population for the topics of sustainability and environmental protection.

The event is part of the activities of the international project Danube Guides Action 2 financed by the State Ministry of Baden-Württemberg in cooperation with the Danube Office Ulm/Neu-Ulm.