The tourism sector in Spain has undergone a significant evolution in recent years, adopting emerging technologies and innovative approaches to improve the experience of visitors and the quality of life of residents. Smart Tourism Destinations represent an emerging paradigm in this context, integrating innovation, technology and sustainability to create more efficient and attractive tourism environments. In this article, we will explore the concept of ITD, the role of SEGITTUR in its development and implementation, and examples of successful destinations in Spain.
Concept of Smart Tourism Destination
A Smart Tourism Destination is defined as an innovative destination that relies on an advanced technological infrastructure to ensure the sustainable development of the tourism territory. ITDs not only seek to improve the tourist experience, but also to increase the quality of life of local residents (SEGITTUR). This model is based on five fundamental axes:
- Governance: Implies efficient, transparent and participatory management, based on cooperation between the public and private sectors.
- Technology: Use of technological tools for destination management and optimization.
- Sustainability: Appropriate management of resources to ensure social, economic and environmental sustainability.
- Innovation: Application of innovative ideas in processes, systems and tourism products.
- Accessibility: Universal accessibility policies in tourism services and resources.
ITD Methodology and Manuals – The Role of SEGITTUR
SEGITTUR, a state-owned commercial company attached to the Secretary of State for Tourism, has been instrumental in the promotion and development of ITD in Spain. Its mission is to lead the digital transformation and innovation in the Spanish tourism sector, coordinating initiatives and providing technical and financial support to destinations seeking to adopt the ITD model.
One of SEGITTUR’s main contributions has been the development of the Smart Tourism Destinations Manual, which provides detailed guidance on the implementation of the DTI model. This manual is structured in three main blocks:
- Trends and Challenges: Reflects on current trends and challenges faced by tourism destinations, proposing innovative and sustainable responses.
- Methodological Foundations: Details the objectives, structure and strategic axes of the ITD model, as well as the requirements and monitoring indicators.
- Implementation Tools: Provides a set of practical tools, best practices and reflections on the future agenda (Global Tourism).
It has also published a Guide to Good Practices in Innovation for DTI, which highlights around 40 innovative initiatives in destinations such as Barcelona, Malaga and Valencia. This guide has a twofold objective: to present the main drivers of innovation and to compile concrete examples of good practices (Smart Travel News).
Network of Intelligent Tourism Destinations (DTI Network)
The Network of Smart Tourism Destinations (DTI Network) is a key initiative coordinated by SEGITTUR, whose main objective is to foster cooperation and knowledge sharing among member tourism destinations. This network is based on the premise that collaboration and effective communication between different destinations can enhance the successful implementation of the DTI model throughout Spain.
Objectives of the DTI Network
The Network of Smart Tourism Destinations (DTI Network) has several key objectives. One of them is knowledge transfer, which facilitates the exchange of information and experiences between destinations. This allows those that have already advanced in the implementation of the DTI model to share their learning and best practices with other destinations that are in the initial stages.
- Improved Tourist Experience: The platform allows to offer tourists a more personalized and seamless experience, from planning their trip to their stay and activities in the destination.
- Resident Benefits: The efficient management of resources and reduction of negative impacts of tourism contribute to improving the quality of life of local residents, ensuring that tourism is sustainable and beneficial for all.
- Transparency and Participation: Promotes transparency in tourism management and enables the active participation of residents in decision-making, strengthening local governance.
Future challenges and opportunities for Smart Tourist Destinations
The Smart Tourism Destinations model faces several challenges, including adapting to crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic and integrating new technologies. These challenges require flexible management and the ability to respond quickly to maintain competitiveness and relevance in the global tourism market. However, these challenges also open up numerous opportunities, such as the development of advanced technological solutions that can significantly improve destination management and ensure long-term sustainability.
Innovation and emerging technologies offer powerful tools to optimize tourism processes, increase the quality of the visitor experience, and improve the quality of life of residents. In this context, tourism destinations in Spain are adapting and thriving under the ITD model, ensuring sustainable development of the territory and strengthening the technological infrastructure of the sector.
Bibliographic References
SEGITTUR. (2023). Destinos Turísticos Inteligentes. Recuperado de segittur.es (SEGITTUR) (SEGITTUR) (Smart Travel News).
TecnoHotel News. (2023). Los 5 ejes que definen los destinos turísticos inteligentes. Recuperado de tecnohotelnews.com (TecnoHotel).
Turismo Global. (2023). SEGITTUR presenta el Manual de Destinos Turísticos Inteligentes. Recuperado de turismo-global.com (Turismo Global).
Smart Travel News. (2023). SEGITTUR presenta la Guía de Buenas Prácticas en innovación para Destinos Turísticos Inteligentes. Recuperado de smarttravel.news (Smart Travel News).