As heatwaves across Europe intensify, our responsibility as tourist guides grows – not just toward our guests, but also toward ourselves. Extreme heat is no longer an exception; it is a new reality that demands attention, adaptation, and solidarity within our profession. In these challenging conditions, the role of licensed and well-trained guides, especially those…
In recent years, Free Tours have become a familiar feature in urban tourism landscapes worldwide. What began as an innovative, customer-oriented model—offering “pay-what-you-like” walking tours—has grown into a global phenomenon. These tours, often promoted via digital platforms with impressive marketing strategies and social media reach, have succeeded in capturing a significant market share. At the…
An Essential Partner for Sustainable Development The Overlooked Agents of Sustainability Whilst the world grapples with the triple challenges of climate change, global inequality, and cultural polarisation, there exists a professional group working daily at the frontlines of human connection and sustainable change: Tourist Guides. They are the invisible architects of cultural exchange and the…
The Eurovision Song Contest (ESC) has always been a vibrant celebration of music and cultures, bringing together millions of people—regardless of origin, language, or beliefs. Officially, the ESC is considered an apolitical event, prohibiting political gestures and instrumentalisation. However, time and again, it becomes evident that where cultural diversity is celebrated, values like freedom, tolerance,…
Vienna, 8 May 2025 – On this significant day, marking the end of World War II, we not only remember the historical event but also acknowledge the profound responsibility it carries. Tourist Guides around the world play a crucial role in conveying history and its consequences. It is time to overcome the longstanding taboo that…
Today, we bid farewell to Pope Francis – a man whose life and work deeply touched the world. He stood as a symbol of kindness, humility, and profound humanity. His unwavering commitment to the poor, the marginalised, and the vulnerable will remain in our hearts and calls us all to reflect on our own responsibilities….
From March 10 to 13 the Chamber of Commerce elections an opportunity for all of us to play an active role in shaping the future of entrepreneurs in Austria. In Upper Austria, I myself had the privilege of 2015 to 2020 as a mandatary in the WKO and see how committed people are doing great…
Last weekend, I had the honor of giving a talk at the Weltenburger Gesprächskreise at the invitation of the KKV Bayern. My topic: Church, monasteries and tourism – and in particular the art of church tours. Because a visit to a church is more than just an excursion – it is a journey through history,…
It gives me great pleasure to invite you to the Weltenburg Talks 2025 to invite you! From February 28 to March 1, 2025 we will meet in the beautiful Benedictine monastery Weltenburgto think together about the future of the church, about encounters and about new ways of communicating. I will be speaking about the importance…
Today is an important day: the Bundestag elections in Germany. I have already been to the polls and – as always – was inspired by the Wahl-O-Mat. But an election decision should not only depend on the party platforms. It’s worth taking a close look at the candidates: How do they speak? What tone of…
