Author: Sebastian Benad

Students on the tourism courses WTb22 and WTb23 at Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences (HSZG) had the opportunity to acquire practical knowledge about tourism development in the Crystal Valley region as part of a Blended Intensive Program (BIP) in Liberec, Czech Republic. The program, which was supervised by Solvig Langschwager, placed particular emphasis on linking theory and practice in order to promote innovative approaches to tourism development. Students from various universities, including the Technical University of Liberec and the University of Krakow, worked together to develop creative solutions for tourism in the region.

On the very first day, October 14, the students were given an introduction to the craftsmanship of the Crystal Valley region, which plays a central role in local tourism. Three universities - TU Liberec, HSZG and the University of Krakow - presented how traditional craftsmanship strengthens regional identity and tourism. On the following day, a case study on the Lausitz mountains was on the agenda, giving the students a first insight into the challenges of tourism development in this region. A subsequent ideathon enabled the students to work in teams to develop creative ideas for promoting tourism, particularly through the integration of traditional craftsmanship.

A highlight of the program was the visit to the glassblowing workshops in Lindava on 16 October. Here, the students were able to experience the glass production process first-hand. This practical insight made it clear how closely tradition and tourism are linked. The subsequent visit to the glass museum in Nový Bor gave the students a deeper understanding of the cultural significance of craftsmanship in the region.

On October 17, the students traveled to the spa region of Spa Libverda, where they took part in a series of specialist lectures. These lectures covered topics such as the competitiveness of tourist regions and the quality of life in border regions. The presentations by experts provided valuable theoretical foundations that helped the students gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities of tourism development.

On the last day of the program, 18 October, the students presented their findings in the form of presentations. These showed how tradition and modernity in tourism can be combined to promote the Crystal Valley region in the long term. The intercultural cooperation between students from Germany, Poland and the Czech Republic led to creative and practical solutions that have the potential to increase the region's appeal to tourists.

The degree was concluded with a reflection on the results and the learning process, with participants providing feedback on the workshops and excursions. The successful combination of theoretical knowledge, practice-oriented tasks and intercultural exchange was rated as a valuable experience by all participants.