In this episode, we dive into the latest innovations in smart public transport, bike-sharing, and real-time traffic management, explore how these advancements are making cities more accessible and sustainable.

Misa Labarile, Policy Officer at the European Commission, DG GROW, together with experts on the topic, discuss the challenges policymakers face in this rapidly evolving field and highlight unique schemes that enhance the experiences of both tourists and residents. Join us as we take a closer look at the future of urban mobility in tourism and discover how these cutting-edge solutions are shaping our cities.

Speakers:

• Nick Hall: Leading industry expert on digital tourism and founder of the Digital Tourism Think Tank.
• Evelina Castro: Marketing strategist, city of Helsingborg, Sweden.

Host: Misa Labarile, Policy Officer of the European Commission, DG GROW.

Find out more about smart tourism and the #EUTourismCapital and #EUGreenPioneer competitions at the initiative website: https://smart-tourism-capital.ec.europa.eu/

Smart gets you further - Off-season Tourism

In the twelfth episode of the EU Smart Tourism Podcast, we discuss the importance of off-season tourism and the benefits of promoting travelling during the low season. As seasonal tourism has a negative impact not only on the environment, but also on local communities and the employment landscape, more destinations are recognising the need to promote tourism all year round.

Misa Labarile, Policy Officer at the European Commission, DG GROW, together with experts on the topic, explore opportunities for EU destinations to leverage off-season experiences and ways to encourage visitors to return later in the year.

Speakers:

• Prof. Xavier Font: professor of sustainability marketing at the University of Surrey, the UK.
• Evelina Castro: marketing strategist, city of Helsingborg, Sweden.
• Mieke Renders: heritage specialist, rural regeneration and urban initiatives consultant, Sweden.

Host: Misa Labarile, Policy Officer of the European Commission, DG GROW.

Find out more about smart tourism and the #EUTourismCapital and #EUGreenPioneer competitions at the initiative website: https://smart-tourism-capital.ec.europa.eu/

Show notes: Find out more about the EU-funded project on experiential tourism extending the tourism season: https://www.tourismexperience.org/

Smart gets you further - Your Guide to Success in Smart Tourism Competitions

In the eleventh episode of the EU Smart Tourism Podcast, we are celebrating the launch of the 2025 European Capital and Green Pioneer of Smart Tourism competitions and looking back at previous winners and their success stories.

Misa Labarile, Policy Officer at the European Commission, DG GROW together with representatives of previous winner cities, discuss the best practices and initiatives implemented in smart tourism categories of accessibility, sustainability, digitalisation and cultural heritage and creativity.

Speakers:

• Edouard Deteyssiere: Tourism office of Bordeaux Metropol.
• Julie Benisty Oviedo: Sustainable tourism manager of Bordeaux tourism and convention office.
• Morten Westergaard: Climate manager, Middelfart Municipality.
• Henna Siltanen: Senior advisor in Smart Tourism and Digital Development at the Tourism and Destination Management Unit at the City of Helsinki.
• Jennifer Hohmann: Tourism officer, Culture department, Karlsruhe Tourism.

Host: Misa Labarile, Policy Officer of the European Commission, DG GROW

Find out more about smart tourism and the #EUTourismCapital and #EUGreenPioneer competitions at the initiative website: https://smart-tourism-capital.ec.europa.eu/