MODULE 6

B. A collection of resources and tools to support youth trainers and young entrepreneurs 

The evolution and application of digital technologies are profoundly changing the way people live, work, travel and do business, and in the process, they are transforming and reshaping tourism.

For SMEs in the travel and tourist industry, digitalization is creating previously unheard-of chances to expand into new markets, create new travel-related goods and services, adopt new business models and procedures, strengthen their positions within international tourism value chains, and integrate into digital ecosystems.

1. Explanation of the different types of resources and tools available

The total amount of apps, tools and resources for travelling could be immense, but here you can find some of the top app ideas to be developed. Do you have an idea? Have a look at this reading about types, features and cost estimations of app development.

Communications tools

Effective communication is essential in the fast-paced world of digital tourism for enhancing visitor experiences, connecting visitors with one another, interacting with locals, and working with service providers. Even while young people frequently utilise these communication tools in daily life, individuals who venture into the digitization of the tourism business can benefit from them even more. Beyond personal use, these communication tools play a crucial role in supporting young entrepreneurs in the digital tourism industry. By harnessing the power of these tools, aspiring youths can seize new opportunities, create innovative ventures, and foster collaboration in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

For young people stepping into the digital tourism realm, this additional knowledge becomes a valuable asset, empowering them to navigate and excel in the competitive landscape of modern tourism. Embracing these communication tools opens doors to success, enabling young minds to shape the future of the digital tourism ecosystem with confidence and creativity.

Messaging apps are software applications designed for sending and receiving text messages, voice messages, images, videos, and other multimedia content between individuals or groups in real time. Messaging apps have become some of the most used communication tools for everybody, as these tools allow communication worldwide, and they also allow communication to be, in most cases, immediate, making it agile and fast.

Some of the most popular messaging apps are WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Telegram. 

WhatsApp: is a free, multiplatform messaging app that lets you make video and voice calls, send text messages, and more. The app is available for all devices and can be embedded into websites. There is a possibility to create a WhatsApp Business account, which allows connecting customers through messaging. WhatsApp is the most used app in the world, with more than 2 million global users. When trying to decide which of the apps is the most suitable, this is a website that can help you with useful data from WhatsApp users.

Facebook Messenger: instant messaging feature built into Facebook, that allows Facebook users to connect and send instant messages, photos, videos, and perform other tasks, so, Facebook Messenger is linked to a Facebook account which could be also a business account. This tool has shopping features, also ads and sponsored messages can be paid for if it’s interesting. Messenger is a very powerful tool in the US and Canada, but that doesn’t mean that, is not a global tool. What has to be avoided is trying to reach young people between 13 and 17 years by these means. There is an article you can go through with data and numbers if Facebook Messenger is a tool you could be interested in. 

Telegram: multi-platform instant messaging service, available on all devices, that allows sending and receiving messages from all contacts, Telegram allows sending messages, video files, voice notes and much more. One of the benefits of Telegram is that you do not need to have the phone number of a contact to reach them. By 2023 telegram was the 9th most popular app, you can check here more stats about Telegram, and if you are thinking about using this app this video from @GuidingTechEnglish can be very helpful, and also, the different videos of the channel can help in the learning process for digitalization. 

There is a wide variety of messaging apps, and selecting the best one must be complicated, in this article from the Hootsuite blog the 9th most popular messaging apps listed, this article can be a good departing point when trying to find a tool to communicate. 

Videoconference apps are software applications designed for conducting virtual meetings between two or more participants in real time. These apps allow users to connect with others remotely, regardless of their physical location, by using webcams, microphones, and other audio-visual tools. The videoconference apps use had a huge increase since the pandemic. The relevance of these tools has become increasingly important for digital tourism, as they allow easy and fast connections regardless of time or location. These tools are also good resources for remote collaboration, training, and any other need identified. 

Popular videoconference apps include Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, and Skype, each country has different preferences, as can be seen in the next map:

Zoom: cloud-based video conferencing platform that allows users to conduct virtual meetings, webinars, and virtual events. Zoom offers audio and video conferencing, screen sharing, recording, virtual backgrounds, and chat, including also the possibility to schedule and join meetings from different devices, such as desktop computers, laptops, tablets, and smartphones. Zoom offers both free and paid plans. Zoom is the favourite platform when analysing the world's total users, the company offers the Learning Center a free educational platform designed to help you learn how to use Zoom like a pro. 

Skype: a communication platform that allows users to make voice and video calls, send instant messages, and share files over the internet. Skype is available on desktop and mobile platforms and can be used to connect with other Skype users as well as with landlines and mobile phones through paid subscriptions; the pricing model of Skype is defined as confusing for the users. The Business option from Skype was replaced in 2021 with Microsoft Teams.

MS Office Teams: is a messaging app for organizations, considered to be a workspace for real-time collaboration and communication, meetings, and file and app sharing. One of the benefits of MS Teams is the interaction with other MS tools. This tool has some free options and also different pricing options depending on the needs. Microsoft Teams is widely used by businesses, non-profit organizations, educational institutions, and other groups for remote collaboration, virtual meetings, and project management.

Google Meet: video conferencing platform developed by Google. Google Meets allows users to conduct virtual meetings, webinars, and virtual events. It offers a range of features, including high-definition video and audio, screen sharing, real-time captions, and the ability to join meetings from different devices, such as desktop computers, laptops, tablets, and smartphones. It also integrates with other Google Workspace tools. One of the benefits of Google Meet is the different pricing options, which could be beneficial. 

When trying to decide which of the videoconference platforms the most suitable one is, first an analysis of the needs has to be done, otherwise the election won’t be trustable, then finding a tool able to answer all those needs has to be found, this article could be a good starting point as it gives some good points for the best video conference software, if the option is to support an EU startup some information could be found in the EU-Startups website.

Travel planning and booking

In the modern era, travel planning and booking have undergone a significant digital transformation. Today, travelers harness the power of online travel agencies, booking engines, and travel apps to explore, research, and organize their journeys.

These digital tools not only facilitate personal travel arrangements but also hold immense educational and entrepreneurial potential. Through flight and hotel search engines, travelers can gain insights into industry trends and learn about market dynamics. Reviews and recommendations from fellow travelers offer valuable lessons for budding entrepreneurs, providing crucial insights into customer preferences and expectations.

Furthermore, the virtual tours and maps featured in these tools not only enhance travel experiences but also serve as inspiration for innovative travel-related business ideas. By understanding and leveraging online booking and payment systems, aspiring entrepreneurs can pave the way for their own ventures, offering seamless and user-friendly services to a global audience.

In this digital age, travel planning and booking are not just about personal convenience; they present a rich educational landscape for aspiring entrepreneurs, offering valuable knowledge and tools to shape the future of the travel industry. For example, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) offers various training courses and programs for travel agents and professionals in the travel industry. These courses cover airline ticketing, travel regulations, and more.

There are a wide variety of tools for travel planning. More than 90% of the bookings are made online, online bookings give access to reviews from others and to track them. Some podcasts can be helpful learning tools: 

• Embark: Travel, Tech and Trust

• The Skift Travel Podcast

• And also, the chapter of the Unpacked podcast, about the Chat GPT interaction in book planning

Here are some other articles that can help in the development of the digitalization process: 

• 10 tips to go digital in the tourism sector | CBI

• How to Use ChatGPT and AI to Help with Travel Planning - AFAR

• Digital Transformation in the Travel and Tourism Industry - Stratoflow

• Digital transformation in the tourism sector (Weare drew.co)

Accommodations booking

Accommodations booking: Airbnb and Booking.com are two of the best-known apps for accommodation bookings. Working with these types of platforms will provide information about the guest and allow contact reduction, which that become something more and more relevant since the pandemic. The booking apps also provide a bidirectional communication tool, which can be improved with the previously mentioned communication tools. The exclusive booking platforms also are interconnected with other apps and software. Even if these two tools are the best known, there are also some other apps which can be checked; the most recommended app for hostels is Hostelworld, which also provides social connections and even allows connecting with like-minded travellers before your departure. 

Travel planning 

Travel planning apps and websites are on everyone's mind when planning to organise a trip, everybody has heard about Expedia and TripAdvisor, but there are so many other tools that will provide extra value. 

• Wanderlog – is an all-in-one destination app for trip planning, sharing travel guides and blogging past trips. This tool is very flexible, allowing research, organizing reservations by connecting with the email, mapping itinerary with times… 

• Skratch – this tool allows you to track the map of all your travels showing all the countries you have been in the world, this tool allows you to pin the pictures and you have been taking from the places you have visited, and will be included in the map. There are a lot of advantages young people can take from this app.

• SYGIC Travel Maps - is the first travel app to display all the attractions and places a traveller needs to see and visit on a single map. The database allows you to find the best hotels, tourist attractions, museums, restaurants, bars, and stores wherever you go.

All these apps can improve the experience of travellers, offering already planned maps with landmarks to visit, recommended restaurants, or some hidden gems of the cities you visit. Digitally offering this kind of resources allow us to have updated version of the destinations, with no need of needing extra work to be done because they are collaborative resources. 

There are also some resources to organize all the previous stages before arriving at the destinations. These previous steps can also be done with the help of some digital tools: 

Hopper - a travel app that uses predictive algorithms to help users find the best deals on flights and hotels, this tool can tell you when the best time is to book the flight.

Navigation and transportation

Navigation and transportation tools are essential for digital tourism as they help travellers navigate and explore new destinations with ease. These tools can provide real-time directions, public transportation schedules and routes, and alternative routes in case of traffic congestion. They can also help travellers find and book transportation options, such as ride-sharing services, taxis, or car rentals.

Digital tourism provides several chances for entrepreneurship and education with its navigation and transportation capabilities. These tools, which make it simple for travellers to discover new places, have the potential to be used in creative ways. The field of geospatial analysis and digital mapping presents a huge opportunity. Entrepreneurs can identify growing travel locations and create distinctive travel experiences to meet the shifting needs of travellers by researching tourist patterns and travel trends. Aspiring entrepreneurs now have more opportunities to develop their own solutions thanks to the growth of travel applications and platforms. In the cutthroat digital environment, creating user-friendly apps that cater to certain travel requirements or provide specialised services can help firms stand out.
Sustainability is a growing concern in the tourism industry, and transportation presents a chance for entrepreneurs to contribute positively. Embracing eco-friendly transportation options and promoting responsible tourism can attract environmentally-conscious travelers.

Data analytics and personalization present exciting possibilities for tailoring travel experiences. By harnessing data, entrepreneurs can offer personalized recommendations and targeted marketing, enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty.

,Integration with the Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) offers another avenue for entrepreneurial ventures. Developing smart transportation solutions that prioritize efficiency, safety, and seamless experiences can revolutionize the travel industry.

Public-private partnerships represent an opportunity to collaborate and innovate. Educational institutions and transportation providers can join forces to offer experiential learning opportunities and drive advancements in the field.

Enhancing accessibility is an essential aspect of digital tourism. By designing transportation tools that cater to differently-abled travelers, entrepreneurs can promote inclusivity and make travel accessible to all.

Lastly, mastering digital marketing and branding strategies is crucial for entrepreneurs to thrive in the digital world. Utilizing online platforms to build strong transportation brands and effectively reach target audiences is vital for success.

In conclusion, navigation and transportation tools are not just utilities for personal use but hold immense potential for education and entrepreneurship in the dynamic domain of digital tourism.  Entrepreneurs with innovative ideas and a forward-thinking approach can leverage these tools to shape the future of travel and tourism.
With the rise of mobile technology, navigation and transportation tools have become increasingly accessible and user-friendly, making them a crucial part of any traveller's toolkit. Google Maps unifies almost all the different tools available online when referring to navigation and transportation, but every user knows that is not trustable. Therefore, here is a list of different tools: 

• Waze - a GPS navigation app that offers real-time traffic updates and alternative routes, the information is getting updated by the users and proposes different routes when there is a traffic jam. 

• Rome2rio - a travel app that provides information on how to get from one destination to another, including flights, trains, buses, and ferries. This tool offers a wide variety of options to arrive at your destination no matter where.

• Citymapper - a public transportation app that provides detailed information on routes, schedules, and fares for buses, trains, and subways in major cities around the world. This app will allow you to plan your trip and save some money using public transport, and also save some different landmarks. 

• Moovit - a public transportation app that offers real-time information and step-by-step directions for buses, trains, and subways, this app gets the information directly from the users and official public transport data.

Language Translation

Language translation tools are particularly useful for digital tourism, as they can help travellers communicate with locals, read signs and menus, and navigate new places. These tools can provide translations for spoken and written language in real-time, making it easier for travellers to understand and communicate with others in foreign languages. Digital tourism offers a variety of chances for both educational and commercial endeavours thanks to language translation software. They encourage the creation of multilingual material, facilitate successful communication with foreign tourists, and facilitate language acquisition for travellers. Additionally, these tools help to increase market reach, enhance customer service, and allow cross-cultural partnerships. They improve the entire travel experience by boosting cultural interaction and personalising user experiences. Additionally, translation technologies enable business owners to access international markets and enhance their goods and services by providing insightful data from market research and analytics. In conclusion, language translation software is essential for removing language barriers and promoting inclusive, reachable, and fruitful digital tourism experiences.

• iTranslate - a translation app that offers text, voice, and image translation in over 100 languages. The app is free, but there is also available a pro version that allows the use of it offline, camera translation, voice-to-voice conversation and even verb conjugation. Therefore this app helps to translate and also to improve language bits of knowledge. (100 languages available)

• Google Translate – this Google tool allows you to translate from 108 languages by writing, and includes 59 languages in the offline version, translates in handwriting from 95 languages, and from 90 languages from camera translation, and even 43 languages for instant speech translation. 

• TripLingo – The main is helping to communicate like a local. You just need to select the country and the app will voice translate for you, it offers some phrases allowing even some humour and fun.  There are some pro-options, that will vary depending on the payment. 

• SayHi - a translation app that offers voice translation in over 100 languages, the app also allows one to record different messages and translate to the selected local language, there is also a typing option when there is no opportunity to voice translations. The app is only available with an internet connection. 

Many of these tools are available as mobile apps or online, allowing travellers to access them from anywhere and at any time. The listed above are some examples of the most famous ones. These tools are very powerful when trying to avoid the language barrier; the apps will allow you to improve communication by enhancing the customer experience and promoting people with low language levels increasing accessibility. However, is not only about the language, but translation tools are also helpful to help the cultural understanding. Language translation apps provide youth entrepreneurs in the tourism sector with a cost-effective solution to overcome language barriers. They can communicate with potential partners, clients, or customers from different linguistic backgrounds, facilitating collaboration and expanding their business opportunities.

Virtual experience 

Virtual experience tools allow travellers to explore destinations and attractions virtually before booking their trip. These tools use advanced technology, such as virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), to create immersive and interactive experiences that simulate the real-world environment. Virtual experience tools offer valuable opportunities for educational and entrepreneurial purposes in digital tourism. These tools leverage virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) to create immersive experiences for travelers.

Virtual tours of historical sites and cultural landmarks enhance learning for digital tourism educational purposes. Language learning apps provide interactive language immersion experiences. Historical re-enactments deepen understanding of the past.

Entrepreneurs can integrate virtual experiences into travel agency websites, attracting more customers. Hotels can offer virtual tours of their properties, increasing bookings. Cultural experiences and event planning benefit from virtual tools. VR marketing campaigns entice travelers and differentiate brands. Overall, virtual experience tools enrich learning, creativity, and customer engagement in digital tourism, opening up new opportunities for businesses and educational institutions.

• Google Street View - Allows travellers to explore destinations and attractions using 360-degree panoramic images.

• Virtual Reality (VR) Headsets - Such as Oculus Quest, can provide immersive experiences of destinations and attractions.

• Augmented Reality (AR) Apps - Such as Yelp, can overlay information about local attractions and restaurants onto the real-world environment.

• 360-Degree Videos - Provide a more immersive and interactive way for travellers to explore destinations and attractions.

• Virtual Tours - Offer a guided tour of a destination or attraction using 360-degree panoramic images, videos, and narration.

• Interactive Maps - This can provide detailed information about local attractions, restaurants, and points of interest, allowing travellers to plan their itinerary more effectively.

• Digital Museums - Such as the Google Arts & Culture platform, provide access to virtual exhibits and collections from museums around the world.

These virtual experience tools allow travellers to explore and experience destinations and attractions in a more detailed, immersive, and interactive way, enhancing their overall travel experience. These tools and resources will give access to remote destinations and even virtually visit landmarks, cultural sites, natural wonders, and more. Also allows travellers to preview destinations and attractions before making travel decisions, this can become a very powerful tool by providing immersive virtual tours enabling businesses to reach a wider audience and increase brand exposure. Virtual experience apps provide youth entrepreneurs with a platform to create and offer unique digital tourism experiences.

1. Tools for developing digital literacy skills 

Description of the digital literacy skills covered by the tools 

Digital literacy skills refer to the ability to use, understand, and evaluate digital technologies and information effectively. In today's increasingly digital world, digital literacy skills are essential for individuals to participate fully in society and to succeed in many industries, including tourism. 

For digital tourism these digital skills are very relevant as in today's digital age, customers expect to be able to book travel and tourism services online, communicate with businesses through digital channels, and access a wide range of digital resources to plan their trips. In a highly competitive industry like tourism, businesses that fail to adapt to digital technologies and trends risk being left behind. 

There is a wide range of apps, tools, and resources that can be implemented in the digital tourism industry, and to implement or include these tools and resources the digital skills are a total basic. This is not about developing an app or having an extremely complicated website, but these tools arrive to stay. 

Digital technologies and tools can help enhance the customer experience by providing personalized recommendations, interactive content, and real-time communication with businesses.

Different digital skills are relevant for digital tourism, such as basic computer skills, online communication skills to have efficient communications, and cybersecurity awareness that will help to develop the ability to protect personal and sensitive information online and to recognize and avoid common online threats, and digital marketing skills developing the ability to use digital marketing tools and techniques effectively, including social media marketing, email marketing, and search engine optimization (SEO).

This tool from the European Union can help you identify which you digital skills, and which are the ones to improve: Test your digital skills | Europass

Examples of specific tools available 

There are different examples of specific tools and resources that will help in the development of some of the mentioned skills, and offering some of the courses are specifically focused on the tourism industry. 

Microsoft Digital Literacy is a free online course that covers basic computer skills such as using a mouse and keyboard, navigating the web, and using email. It also includes modules on digital security, online communication, and career development.

LinkedIn Learning is an online platform that offers courses on a wide range of digital skills, including digital marketing, data analysis, and project management. 

Google Digital Garage offers free online courses on a range of digital skills, including search engine optimization, social media marketing, and e-commerce. It also includes courses specifically focused on the tourism industry.

For cybersecurity awareness there are also some different options, these tools are not exclusively for the tourist sector but due to the relevance of cybersecurity, these skills must be developed. 

Proofpoint and KnowBe4 are platforms that provide cybersecurity awareness training for employees, it offers a range of training modules that cover topics such as phishing, password security, mobile device security, social engineering, malware, and email security.

Cybrary is an online learning platform that offers a range of courses on cybersecurity. It covers topics such as ethical hacking, cryptography, and network security.

The SANS Institute is a cybersecurity research and training organization that offers a range of courses and certifications. It covers topics such as incident response, threat hunting, and cloud security.

Phishing simulators are tools that allow organizations to test their employees' ability to recognize and respond to phishing attacks. They simulate phishing attacks and track employee responses, providing organizations with insights into areas where they may need to improve their cybersecurity awareness training.

2. Tools for supporting entrepreneurship and Innovation 

Description of the entrepreneurship and innovation skills covered by the tools 

Entrepreneurship and innovation skills refer to the ability to identify and develop new business opportunities and to create and implement new ideas or products. These skills are essential for success in today's rapidly changing business environment, particularly in the digital tourism industry where technology and consumer preferences are constantly evolving.

Some key skills for entrepreneurship and innovation skills are creativity, strategic thinking, risk-taking, flexibility and leadership. 

Developing these skills requires a combination of education, training, and hands-on experience. Entrepreneurs and innovators in the digital tourism industry can benefit from programs and resources that provide mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to funding and resources. Additionally, keeping up to date with industry trends and emerging technologies can help entrepreneurs identify new opportunities for innovation and growth.

These entrepreneurship and innovation skills can be developed with the help of the already mentioned tools and resources, and can be utilized in youth training programs or by youth workers/trainers to empower and prepare young individuals for the digital tourism industry. 

Incorporating these skills into youth training initiatives, trainers can help young people develop their creativity, strategic thinking, risk-taking, flexibility, and leadership abilities. The tools can serve as practical resources for teaching and demonstrating these skills, providing hands-on experience, and fostering an entrepreneurial mindset among youth.

Examples of specific tools available 

The Tourism Startup Accelerator is a program offered by the World Tourism Organization that provides support and mentoring to early-stage tourism startups. It offers training, mentorship, and access to funding and resources.

The Bright Idea Hub is an online platform that connects entrepreneurs and innovators with experts in the tourism industry. It offers access to resources, networking opportunities, and support for idea development.

Online learning platforms such as Udemy, Coursera, and edX are online courses platforms that provide a wide range of courses and also can provide entrepreneurs, youth, youth trainers, and experts… access to courses and resources on entrepreneurship, innovation, business development, or any other need they might identify. 

Online business accelerators such as Techstars and Y Combinator provide entrepreneurs with funding, mentorship, and resources to help them launch and grow their businesses. Mentors can also provide guidance and advice on business strategy and development.

Tools for promoting volunteering and social entrepreneurship 

Description of the volunteering and social entrepreneurship skills covered by the tools.

Effective communication skills are crucial for volunteers and social entrepreneurs. They need to be able to communicate their ideas and goals to stakeholders, including partners, volunteers, and customers.

Collaboration skills are essential for working effectively with other stakeholders in the digital tourism industry. Volunteers and social entrepreneurs need to be able to work collaboratively with other volunteers, partners, and customers to achieve their goals.

Problem-solving skills are critical for volunteers and social entrepreneurs to identify and address challenges and opportunities. They need to be able to identify problems, analyse information, and develop and implement effective solutions.

Problem-solving skills are critical for volunteers and social entrepreneurs to identify and address challenges and opportunities. They need to be able to identify problems, analyse information, and develop and implement effective solutions.

Leadership skills are important for social entrepreneurs to motivate and inspire others to support their cause. They need to be able to communicate their vision and inspire others to work towards achieving their goals.

Creativity is essential for social entrepreneurs to identify innovative solutions to social and environmental challenges. They need to be able to think outside the box and come up with new and creative ideas.

Examples of specific tools available

VolunteerMatch is an online platform that connects individuals and organizations with volunteer opportunities. It allows volunteers to search for opportunities based on location, skills, and interests.

Idealist is another online platform that connects individuals and organizations with volunteer opportunities, as well as jobs and internships in the nonprofit sector.

Give a Day is a platform that allows tourists to donate a day of their vacation to volunteer in the local community. It partners with local nonprofits and community organizations to provide meaningful volunteering experiences.

Additionally, the European Solidarity Corps is a very interesting tool to find cross-border volunteering activities, open to 18-30 years from EU and partner countries, under this programme some basics are covered. If you are interested in volunteering, the option of doing your volunteer action in your local community is something very valuable, this type of volunteering will allow you to see long-term changes and the impact of your activity.