Stephen Ekstrom, CEO and cofounder of Learn Tourism, embarked on a six-month road trip from Sarasota, Florida, to Portland, Oregon, transforming the journey into an educational experience.
Accompanied by his 14-year-old niece, Ekstrom visited over 30 Destinations International member locations, exploring seven national parks and engaging with local communities to uncover the essence of American destinations.
Ekstrom's unconventional approach to attending the Destinations International Annual Convention involved driving more than 10,000 miles, turning the trip into a "living classroom." His niece's hybrid education was enriched through real-world experiences, such as learning geography at volcanoes and economics through interactions with local business owners. "Tourism isn't just an industry—it may be the world's greatest classroom," Ekstrom stated, highlighting the diverse lessons each destination offers.
The journey underscored the importance of informed communities in tourism. Ekstrom noted, "When residents understand the stories, values, and people that make their destination special, they don't just welcome visitors—they become ambassadors for their own communities." This perspective emphasises the role of local knowledge in enhancing visitor experiences.
The trip also showcased the value of experiential learning, with Ekstrom's niece studying ecosystems in rainforests and geology beside lava fields. Ekstrom's reflections suggest that tourism's true value lies in the personal connections and insights gained from local interactions, rather than just iconic landmarks.
Concluding in Portland, the journey offered insights into the future of destination management and community engagement, reinforcing the idea that authentic tourism begins with local understanding and pride
This story was selected and published by a human editor, with content adapted from original press material using AI tools and checked by the editor before publication. Spot an error? Report it here.
