How do you develop sustainable events for a UNESCO World Heritage Site? And what is it like to work in international teams on real-world challenges in tourism?
That is exactly what five students in the Bachelor’s program Tourism & Hospitality Management explored in April during an international Blended Intensive Program (BIP) as part of the Erasmus+ program. Together with students from partner universities Haaga-Helia University of Applied Sciences (Finland) and Breda University of Applied Sciences (Netherlands), they worked on real-world projects for the Finnish island of Suomenlinna in the “Sustainable Experience Design” course.
Modern Events at a UNESCO World Heritage Site
The focus of the week was on developing a concept for the real-world client “Suomenlinna”, a historic fortress island off the coast of Helsinki that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The island is one of Finland’s most famous landmarks and uniquely combines culture, history, and tourism. The students were tasked with developing two event concepts: First, they were to plan a new winter event for the island; second, they were to develop strategies to strengthen and further develop existing events.
On the very first day, the group visited Suomenlinna. There, the students received the briefing and toured various potential event locations on the island. This direct insight into the destination helped them develop initial ideas and get to know the unique characteristics of the site.
From Research to Concept Development
The intensive week was clearly structured and aligned with the individual phases of experience design. The second day focused on research and customer understanding. The students analyzed target audiences, gathered information about the destination, and explored sustainable approaches to event management.
The following days were devoted to idea development and concept work. Working in international teams, the participants brainstormed, developed initial concepts, and fleshed out their event ideas.
Friday marked the conclusion of the intensive week: the teams presented their final concepts to the client. In addition to creativity, the focus was on feasibility, sustainability, and the visitor experience.
Learning Outside the Classroom
In addition to the project work, the week also provided an opportunity to get to know Helsinki and make international connections. The program included a visit to the modern Oodi Library as well as group explorations of the Finnish capital.
The students were also able to immerse themselves in Finnish culture through its cuisine—with salmon soup and korvapuusti, the traditional Finnish cinnamon bun.
International Experience for Aspiring Tourism Professionals
The Blended Intensive Program not only provided students with practical experience in sustainable event and destination management, but also gave them the opportunity to interact with international students and faculty.
By working on a real-world project, collaborating internationally, and engaging directly with a destination, participants gained valuable insights into current challenges and working methods in tourism management.
>> More information about the Bachelor´s program Tourism & Hospitality Management