The Ida-Virumaa Tourism Cluster started teaching hospitality last autumn. Now, 18 of the best tourism companies have received hospitality awards. These companies work hard to welcome their guests warmly.
A golden heart badge shows that a place is hospitable. But the first thing a visitor notices is a friendly greeting. The goal is for visitors to be welcomed with a smile everywhere. They should learn about the region’s attractions and hear interesting stories. Guests should feel welcome.
Hospitality is basic tourism service, but there is always room to improve. The hospitality badge can be a sign of good service. For example, in a restaurant, the food should be tasty. But what people remember most is how they were treated. These special experiences are what the companies aim to provide.
Most of the hospitality badges were given to spa hotels and accommodation businesses in Ida-Virumaa. There are fewer food and drink places. Ida-Virumaa could have more of these. They don’t need to be fancy restaurants. Instead, they should be cozy places offering authentic experiences.
The Ida-Virumaa Tourism Cluster hopes that tourists visiting these hospitable places will leave many reviews. The next hospitality badges will be given out in a year.