Networking in the focus: Bötm seminar in Velden sets new accents

Networking in the focus: Bötm seminar in Velden sets new accents

In Velden am Wörthersee, around 180 tourismists from all over Austria recently gathered for this year's top seminar of the Federal Association of Austrian Tourism Manager (BöTM). A central element of the seminar was the upcoming renaming of the BöTM into "Destination Network Austria" (DNA), which was the focus together with the concept of cooperation in tourism.

The general assembly, which preceded the seminar, was a significant start in which Andreas Purt, as managing director of Mostviertel Tourism, was again confirmed as Vice President of the Association. The president of the new network, Mathias Schatleitner, was optimistic about the future cooperation: "We are proud and look forward to continuing to develop tourism in Austria together with all members," he said.

cooperation and artificial intelligence in focus

The entire seminar was shaped by the leitmotif of the cooperation. External speakers, such as Astrid Stharnig-Staudinger from Austria advertising, highlighted the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in tourism. "It is not the question of whether we use AI, but how," she clarified and showed that modern technologies are essential to be successful in competition.

In addition, lecture Otmar Kastner suggested the participants to integrate creative elements such as "love" and "exase" into their everyday work in order to strengthen enthusiasm in tourism. Such emotional approaches could enrich both individual satisfaction and the entire tourism sector.

Networking was another important aspect of the seminar. The many opportunities for exchange-be it at dinner or through best practice examples-were very much appreciated by the participants. Lisa Loferer, further education officer of the DNA, emphasized the relevance of this continuous exchange: "The large number of participants shows how important further training is for the development of tourism in Austria."

A look into the future

The Destination Network Austria has established itself as a strong community that combines over 200 members from various areas of tourism. The tasks of the network are diverse: they range from the networking of members to knowledge transfer to political interest representation.

The DNA Congress will take place in Feldkirch, Vorarlberg from October 1 to 3, 2025 in the coming year. This congress will continue the proven format of the BöTM top seminar, but under a fresh name and with new content. For further information on the upcoming events and their importance in the Austrian tourism sector here .