An online session on November 26th, led by the high-tech company Arctur d.o.o., brought together Business Support Organizations (BSOs), creatives, tourism professionals, cultural heritage managers, and tech enthusiasts to explore their transformative potential.
Addressing Tourism Challenges
The session tackled pressing challenges such as over-tourism in popular destinations and under-tourism in less-visited areas. Immersive technologies offer innovative solutions, providing visitors with interactive experiences that go beyond observation. The concept of “edu-tainment”—blending education with entertainment—was highlighted as a powerful way to captivate audiences while delivering valuable insights.
Bringing Cultural Stories to Life
Participants explored examples of immersive storytelling in action. A key highlight was the Mysteries of Submerged Villages project in Velenje. Through VR, visitors can relive the history of mining communities, seeing submerged villages while listening to stories told by a miner’s grandson. This interactive storytelling, paired with sensory elements, draws visitors into the narrative.
Another standout example, e-Castles of Posavje, showcased a digital room at Čatež Thermal Resort. Using holograms, VR, and screens, it brought to life the stories of seven castles, blending history with cutting-edge technology to offer an unforgettable experience.
Supporting Sustainability
Immersive technologies also support sustainable tourism practices. Projects such as the digitalization of Izola’s history and the use of 3D printing demonstrate how technology can reduce the environmental impact of tourism while preserving cultural treasures.
Through the leadership of Arctur d.o.o. and the collaboration of BSOs, creatives, and tourism stakeholders, the session underscored how immersive technologies can shape the future of tourism, inspiring sustainable, innovative, and inclusive experiences worldwide.