ECOHOL is an ERASMUS + project funded by the European Union

It focuses on equipping young professionals with advanced skills and qualifications necessary for success in the tourism sector. 

This includes training in areas such as :

● Customer service 
● Hospitality management 
● Sustainable tourism practices 
● Cultural sensitivity 
● Communication skills 

Training for employment in the tourism sector: 

The project provides tailored training programs to prepare young professionals for various roles within the tourism industry, including tour guides, hospitality staff, event organizers, and eco-tourism specialists. 
Curriculum modules cover various topics relevant to the sector, such as destination management, sustainable tourism development, marketing strategies, and crisis management. 
Training modules developed within the project emphasize the importance of responsible tourism practices, conservation efforts, and minimizing the environmental footprint of tourism activities. 

Providing tools for social entrepreneurship initiatives and employment opportunities: 

Besides traditional employment pathways, the project empowers young professionals to explore opportunities in social entrepreneurship within the tourism sector. 
Participants will learn about innovative business models, funding opportunities, and resources available for launching and sustaining social enterprises focused on sustainable tourism. 
Mentorship programs and networking events connect aspiring entrepreneurs with industry experts and potential collaborators, fostering a supportive ecosystem for their ventures.
 

ECOHOL launch in Brussels 

First Transnational Meeting of Erasmus+ funded Ecohol project took place in November 2023 in Brussels and was a fantastic opportunity to gather all partners from Cyprus, Spain, Greece, Belgium, and France. 
Face-to-face sessions not only increase the collaboration and motivation of partners but also allow them to embrace the richness and potential of the concrete group of actors. This meeting was no exception and helped to understand each other's intentions, responsibilities, and tasks, through formal and informal moments. The setup was an inspirational building of “GC Elzenhof” that serves as a laboratory for socio-cultural projects.
 

Insights to ECOHOL results

Introducing the ECOHOL Handbook: Pioneering Sustainable Tourism Practices

The ECOHOL Handbook is a comprehensive resource focused on sustainable tourism practices, created through extensive research and collaboration. It is designed to be accessible to students, young professionals, and anyone interested in integrating sustainability into their travel experiences. What will make it unique is its innovative online platform, which will provide access to cutting-edge sustainability practices from around the globe. The handbook will draw on insights from national reports and partner contributions, offering diverse perspectives and solutions to common challenges in sustainable tourism. To reach a wide audience, it will be promoted through various social media channels and will be available in multiple languages, reflecting the diversity of its contributors and readership.

Hub of Learning and Information 

The ECOHOL Online Platform will serve as more than just a website — it's a comprehensive e-learning environment and a repository of valuable information. Designed to be user-friendly and accessible to all, the platform will offer free registration to participants and stakeholders involved in the ECOHOL project. Through the platform, users will gain full access to a wealth of resources, including project materials, articles, case studies, and more. One of the core goals of the ECOHOL Online Platform is to effect positive change in the attitudes and behaviors of travelers and tourism professionals alike.

Fostering Intercultural Dialogue and Policy 

The ECOHOL meetings provide a space for in-depth cross-cultural discussions, offering participants a thorough understanding of European institutions and policies. These meetings help participants grasp how policies are created and applied across borders within the European Union. One significant outcome is the creation of a detailed policy paper containing recommendations for EU institutions. This document will be easily accessible on the project's online platform, catering to all stakeholders. It will be translated into various languages, including English and those spoken in partner countries, to engage a diverse audience and enrich discussions on EU legislation.

Partners of the project 

Le LABA (France)
Connect your city Brussels (Belgium)
Innosouth (Spain)
CTL Eurocollege (Cyprus)
Association Halage (France)