LAKE GARDA. German tourists no longer have a monopoly on Lake Garda, which has also become a popular destination for Americans, Chinese and Arabs who also end up being the ones who spend the most.
The arabi prefer Garda Trentino attracted both byfresh water that give gastronomic proposals. There are objective difficulties in terms of hospitality which are culturally different compared to the German one for example, but in all cases they can be overcome especially in high level structures.
Tourism Chinese has increased thanks to the direct connection Beijing – Venice: the latter, together with the Americans, have the greatest concern for security, especially fearing thefts and muggings.
These are some of the findings made byObservatory for tourism on Benacocurated by the Catholic University of Milan and the Garda Community. But what is under observation is the entire Garda tourist movement which is orienting itself towards new markets which also have different needs compared to the traditional one and the analysis is comprehensive, defining the inter-provincial macro area as the “Garda Region”. Garda then also becomes a starting point for visiting other cities such as Verona, Venice, Milan, but also Mantua and Bologna.
Returning to the requests of tourists, that americano differs from Chinese and Arabs by its rsearch for authenticity and the appreciation for the good-natured relationship with that person is welcomed; a spontaneous and unforced form. In many cases there is also the desire to discover links with ancestors and see for yourself the many places described in literature. Lake Garda also has a central position and for them, accustomed to long distances, any destination seems easy to reach.
What are the key factors driving the increase in American and Chinese tourists to Lake Garda?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Dr. Eliana Rossi, Tourism Expert
Editor: Welcome, Dr. Rossi! It’s great to have you here to discuss the recent shifts in tourism dynamics at Lake Garda. It seems like the traditional German tourist monopoly is changing with the influx of visitors from America, China, and the Arab world. What can you tell us about this trend?
Dr. Rossi: Thank you for having me! Yes, it’s quite fascinating. For decades, German tourists were the backbone of Lake Garda’s tourism. However, recent data shows a notable increase in tourists from the U.S., China, and the Middle East. This change is largely driven by targeted marketing and improved accessibility, including direct flights like Beijing to Venice.
Editor: That’s very interesting. What do you think attracts these new visitors to Lake Garda, particularly the Arab tourists?
Dr. Rossi: The appeal for Arab tourists, especially in Garda Trentino, lies in the region’s pristine natural beauty and unique gastronomic offerings. The freshwater lakes invite not just leisure activities but also culinary experiences that resonate well with their preferences. Additionally, the region’s high-end accommodations have made it appealing for luxury travelers.
Editor: You mentioned the challenges in hospitality with these culturally diverse groups. Could you elaborate on that?
Dr. Rossi: Certainly. Each culture has its distinct expectations regarding hospitality. The German tourists are accustomed to a certain level of efficiency and process-oriented service. In contrast, guests from the Middle East or China may prioritize different aspects such as personalization and privacy. High-level establishments can adapt by training their staff to understand and meet these varied cultural expectations, creating a welcoming environment for everyone.
Editor: It sounds like cultural adaptability is key for sustaining this tourism growth. Speaking of which, security is a major concern for Americans and Chinese tourists. How do you think Lake Garda is addressing these issues?
Dr. Rossi: That’s a critical point. Safety is paramount for travelers. Authorities and hospitality sectors in Lake Garda are increasingly focused on enhancing security measures. This includes improving lighting in public areas, engaging local law enforcement, and increasing surveillance during peak tourist seasons. The message is clear: protecting tourists is essential not just for their peace of mind but also for the area’s reputation as a safe destination.
Editor: How do you foresee the future of tourism in Lake Garda with these evolving dynamics?
Dr. Rossi: I believe Lake Garda is on the brink of becoming a truly global tourist destination. By leveraging its natural beauty and diverse cultural offerings, it can cater to an increasingly varied clientele. However, it will require sustained effort in infrastructure, cultural training for hospitality staff, and continued focus on safety to ensure all visitors feel at home.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Rossi, for your insights into this evolving situation at Lake Garda. It’s clear that understanding and embracing diversity will be the way forward for tourism in the region.
Dr. Rossi: Thank you for having me! It’s an exciting time for tourism at Lake Garda, and I look forward to seeing how it develops.