Cultural Tourism in Amsterdam

Independence

Trip price

Trip duration

Level 5 and 6 International Tourism and Hospitality Management students are eligible to apply. There is a maximum of 20 places available, with a minimum of 15 participants required for this opportunity to take place. Students are recommended to check the eligibility criteria before applying.

Trip description

The Cultural Tourism Research Visit to Amsterdam combines academic study with industry engagement in one of Europe’s leading cultural tourism destinations. Students will conduct the primary research required for the assessment in the ITHM2002 and ITHM3005 International Tourism and Hospitality Research Visit modules while developing their understanding of cultural tourism, destination management, sustainable tourism and the tourism and hospitality industry in an international context.

Students will engage with Inholland University of Applied Sciences, one of De Montfort University’s international partner universities for student exchange, to meet academic staff and students, discuss tourism research and projects, exchange ideas, and learn about tourism and hospitality education in the Netherlands. Students will also visit the I amsterdam Visitor Centre and engage with local travel agencies and tour operators to develop their understanding of destination management, destination marketing, visitor services, tourism products and itinerary planning.

The itinerary includes the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, H’ART Museum, Dam Square, the Canal Ring (UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Jordaan District, Museumplein, the Bloemenmarkt, the Albert Cuyp Market, Vondelpark and NDSM Wharf. At NDSM Wharf, students will complete a placemaking activity exploring how the regeneration of a former industrial shipyard into a creative and cultural district has contributed to destination development, visitor experience and destination appeal.

Primary research conducted throughout the visit will inform the design and justification of a five-day cultural tourism itinerary and the preparation of a full cost budget for four people required for the assessment in the ITHM2002 and ITHM3005 International Tourism and Hospitality Research Visit modules.

Learning objectives

The primary objective of the Cultural Tourism Research Visit to Amsterdam is to develop students’ academic, professional and cultural understanding through first-hand experience of one of Europe’s leading tourism destinations. Students will conduct primary research for the assessment in the ITHM2002 and ITHM3005 International Tourism and Hospitality Research Visit modules while developing their understanding of cultural tourism, destination management, sustainable tourism and the tourism and hospitality industry in an international context.

Primary research conducted in Amsterdam will inform the design and presentation of a five-day cultural tourism itinerary and a full cost budget for four people visiting the city. Students will evaluate cultural and heritage attractions, visitor services, tourism and hospitality products, develop skills in itinerary planning and budgeting, consider the relationship between the tour operator or travel agent and the tourist, and critically consider sustainability when planning and justifying their cultural tourism itinerary and recommendations.

The visit will also develop students’ cultural awareness, confidence and professional understanding through engagement with tourism professionals, academic staff and students at Inholland University of Applied Sciences. Students will develop their research skills, apply concepts introduced in the modules within an international destination, and gain experience of conducting and applying primary research while considering the ethical responsibilities associated with research.

Skill development

This opportunity has been designed to help develop the following DMU Graduate Attributes:

Communication

Confidence

Critical Thinking

Collaboration

Cultural activities

Amsterdam offers students a wide range of cultural experiences through visits to some of the city’s most iconic attractions, historic neighbourhoods and cultural landmarks. The itinerary includes visits to the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum and H’ART Museum, where students can explore Amsterdam’s history, world-renowned art and cultural heritage. Students will also explore Dam Square, the Canal Ring (UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Jordaan District, Museumplein, the Bloemenmarkt, the Albert Cuyp Market, Vondelpark and NDSM Wharf. At NDSM Wharf, students will complete a placemaking activity exploring how the regeneration of a former industrial shipyard into a creative and cultural district has contributed to destination development, visitor experience and destination appeal.

Students will also have scheduled free time to explore Amsterdam beyond the organised itinerary. Recommendations will be provided for cafés, restaurants, local markets, independent shops, museums and galleries that students may wish to explore independently. These experiences will allow students to experience the city’s vibrant streets, observe daily life and further develop their understanding of Amsterdam’s culture and heritage while exploring places of personal interest.

The visit offers an exciting opportunity to experience Amsterdam’s heritage, culture and unique character while exploring one of Europe’s most vibrant and culturally diverse cities.