As part of its educational initiatives, the School of Hospitality, Tourism, and Events organized a virtual Tourism Speaker Series for students on 26 November 2024, titled “The Secret to Successful Tour Guiding.” The session provided students with a comprehensive understanding of the skills and techniques required to excel as professional tour guides, focusing on key responsibilities such as effective communication, engaging storytelling, and cultural sensitivity to cater to diverse visitor needs. Participants gained strategies for addressing challenges such as conflict resolution and emergencies while upholding professionalism and ethical standards.
The session also highlighted the importance of utilizing technology to enhance visitor experiences, emphasizing the need to balance digital tools with personal interaction. By the end of the 70-minute session, attendees were equipped to deliver memorable, inclusive, and impactful guided tours. Twenty-three students from the Bachelor of International Tourism Management (Hons.) programme participated in the event.
The session was led by Dr. Viana Hassan, an academician and researcher specializing in Tourism and Cultural Management with over 15 years of experience in Lebanon and Malta. Dr. Viana holds a Ph.D. in Tourism Management and Culture from Saint Joseph University, Beirut. Her extensive industry background includes airline sales (MEA) and co-managing travel agencies, along with 13 years of teaching at universities in Lebanon and Malta. She has also presented at international conferences in cities such as Athens, Paris, Vienna, Dubai, Beirut, and Valencia.
During her presentation, Dr. Viana shared valuable insights into the art of tour guiding, emphasizing the importance of storytelling, cultural sensitivity, and effective communication in creating exceptional visitor experiences. She illustrated how tour guides can balance professionalism with personal engagement to ensure interactions are both educational and entertaining.
Dr. Viana also stressed the importance of adaptability in meeting diverse visitor expectations and overcoming challenges, inspiring participants to embrace innovation and continuous learning in their guiding practices. Her dynamic and engaging presentation made the session both transformative and impactful.