“The future of Greek tourism is based on authenticity, quality, innovation and the enhancement of the travel experience with an emphasis on the use of digital technology.”
This was pointed out by the Minister of Tourism, Ms. Olga Kefalogianni, speaking at the 4th GenAI Summit SE Europe, the largest European conference focused on Artificial Intelligence, which took place at the Stavros Niarchos Foundation Cultural Center.
During the discussion, the Minister highlighted the role of technology, and in particular Artificial Intelligence, in enhancing the competitiveness and sustainable development of destinations.
Responding to a relevant question, she underlined, however, that for digital technology tools to be truly effective, strong governance systems, clear objectives, reliable data and coordinated management are required.
In this context, he referred to the creation of Destination Management and Promotion Organizations (DMMOs), the modern tourism governance model that will function as a command center for the management, promotion and promotion of the destination, with the cooperation of the basic tripartite state, local government and the private sector.
As he explained, these organizations have as their objective the overall management and promotion of destinations through close cooperation between the central state, local communities and tourism bodies.
Through reliable data for tourism development, documented decision-making is strengthened, while the management of tourist destinations can become more effective through the use of technologies such as Artificial Intelligence.
The Minister then pointed out that Artificial Intelligence is radically changing the way destinations design their services, understand travelers’ needs, make decisions and develop their communication strategy.
As far as our country is concerned, a central project in terms of the use of digital technology is the redesign of the official travel portal VisitGreece.gr, which will incorporate second-generation Artificial Intelligence technologies. In addition, the Minister also referred to the development of thematic digital platforms that will support specific forms of tourism such as mountain and winter tourism, agrotourism and gastronomic tourism, marine and diving tourism and health and wellness tourism. These platforms will incorporate Artificial Intelligence technology for personalized information and improved services to travelers.
At the same time, the Minister referred to the use of augmented reality technology, noting that it is a tool for upgrading the experience in destinations, especially for younger generations of travelers. She emphasized that augmented reality essentially enhances cultural tourism experiences, making the experience of visiting monuments and cultural sites more attractive.
An equally important project, she added, is the mAiGreece application, which was developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Digital Governance and offers personalized travel information, the possibility of immediate assistance through a connection to 112, as well as multilingual support.
In closing, the Minister of Tourism emphasized that the goal is for every traveler to discover the uniqueness of Greece, while tourism contributes to the empowerment of local communities. “We are building this future for Greek tourism.” Digital technology applications, such as AI, are tools that help us offer upgraded services, and understand travel trends in order to better promote and protect our destinations.”
The discussion with the Minister of Tourism was attended by the Director of Destination Strategy of TOPOSOPHY and Director on the Board of the European Cultural Tourism Network, Mr. Barry Rogers, while the moderator was Mr. Dimitris Georgiou.
