Venturing into the world of travel and tourism research often leads us to explore various geographies, cultures, and, notably, challenges faced by diverse global destinations. One such journey led me, and my esteemed colleagues Ivana Pavlic, Barbara Puh, and Hugues SERAPHIN, into an insightful soiree at the Travel and Tourism Research Association (TTRA) European Chapter Conference, hosted in the picturesque city of Dijon, France.

A potpourri of knowledge, insights, and expertise, the conference brought together researchers and industry experts from various corners of the world, presenting a prime opportunity for dialogue, learning, and networking in the realm of travel and tourism. The air, laden with insightful discussions about current issues and future trajectories of the sector, offered an invaluable panorama of the ever-evolving dynamics of tourism research.

In the midst of exchanging perspectives and exploring novel research avenues, our team was thrilled to be spotlighted for our experimental study titled “Exploring the Effects of Overtourism on Children in Dubrovnik.” In a world where travel is increasingly accessible, the phenomenon of overtourism and its myriad implications has become a pivotal axis of research. Our study endeavored to shed light on the often-overlooked aspect – the impacts on children residing in heavily touristed locales. Delving into the nuanced experiences of the youngest residents of Dubrovnik, our research unveiled several significant insights into how overtourism shapes their daily lives, aspirations, and perceptions of the place they call home.

To our delight and honor, our paper was recognized with the Best Paper Award at the conference. An accolade not just for our team but for the silent voices that our research aimed to amplify – those of the children affected by the complexities of overtourism. This prestigious recognition has not only amplified the significance of our findings but has also underscored the importance of embedding diverse perspectives in tourism research.

My heartfelt gratitude goes to my incredible team – Ivana, Barbara, and Hugues, whose unwavering dedication, meticulous research, and profound expertise played an instrumental role in shaping our study and ultimately earning this esteemed recognition. It’s through our collective endeavors, persistent curiosity, and shared passion for responsible and inclusive tourism that we were able to bring this topic into the spotlight.

As we bask in this moment of honor and recognition, our team is also reminded of the continuous journey ahead. The conversations and collaborations fostered at the TTRA Conference have not only enriched our perspectives but also ignited further curiosity to explore uncharted territories in tourism research. The path forward beckons with promises of further explorations into responsible tourism, ensuring that the multifaceted impacts of travel are understood, mitigated, and strategically managed for a sustainable future.

Here’s to more research, deeper understandings, and innovative solutions in the fascinating world of travel and tourism. Until the next journey of discovery…