Explore Nordic Wonders

A Comprehensive Training for Travel Professionals

Training Objectives

The objective of this training program is to equip Chinese travel professionals with a comprehensive understanding of Nordic countries' cultural, historical, and natural resources, as well as the business and tourism landscape. By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

  1. Understand Nordic Culture and History: Gain insights into the unique cultural values, traditions, and historical backgrounds of the five Nordic countries (Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Iceland).

  2. Develop Cultural Sensitivity: Learn about Nordic customs, social norms, and interpersonal etiquette to foster respectful and effective interactions with local partners and clients.

  3. Identify Key Tourism Opportunities: Explore the diverse natural attractions, seasonal activities, and sustainable tourism practices that define the Nordic region's appeal.

  4. Navigate Industry Structures and Regulations: Understand the Nordic tourism industry, legal frameworks, and policies to ensure smooth operations and compliance.

  5. Design and Promote Nordic Travel Experiences: Create tailored travel itineraries and establish partnerships with Nordic businesses to deliver high-quality, culturally enriched, and memorable experiences for Chinese travelers.

Day 1: Nordic Landscapes and Heritage

Morning

  • Nordic Geography Overview: Define the scope of the Nordic region (versus Scandinavia) and examine how diverse landscapes (fjords, mountains, volcanic areas) shape tourism.
  • Climate Influences: Identify how northern climate patterns (e.g. Gulf Stream effects and Arctic conditions) impact seasonal travel and accessibility.
  • Languages and Society: Recognize the multilingual nature of Nordic countries and the high-trust, welfare-oriented social model that makes tourism environments safe and welcoming.

Afternoon

  • Viking Heritage Highlights: Summarize the Viking Age timeline and its lasting influence on Nordic culture, from historical sites and legends to traditions that enrich modern tourism experiences.
  • Heritage Preservation Initiatives: Highlight how historic sites like Bergen’s Bryggen Wharf are protected and creatively repurposed, demonstrating the Nordic commitment to sustaining cultural heritage.

Day 2: Nordic Customs and Interpersonal Relationships

Morning

  • Nordic Lifestyle Concepts: Introduce key Nordic lifestyle philosophies such as Danish “hygge” (cozy comfort) and Swedish “fika” (social coffee break) that enhance traveler experiences.
  • Social Values and Norms: Emphasize Nordic societal values of equality, transparency, and humility (the “Janteloven” principle), alongside a strong commitment to sustainability in daily life.
  • Everyday Etiquette: Provide insights into daily customs and behaviors – from modest dress and punctuality to polite communication styles – to ensure effective interactions with Nordic partners and clients.

Afternoon

  • Midsummer Traditions: Explore the ancient roots and vibrant customs of Nordic Midsummer celebrations (flower crowns, maypole dances, folklore rituals) and how they can be packaged into unique travel experiences.
  • Nordic Christmas Highlights: Highlight Nordic “Jule” holiday traditions – from Saint Lucia candlelit processions and regional Santa Claus legends to festive markets – that offer rich and appealing winter tourism opportunities.
  • Integrating Cultural Experiences: Learn to incorporate local cultural activities (like visiting Icelandic farms, joining Danish cycling tours, or enjoying Finnish sauna traditions) into itineraries to provide authentic and engaging experiences for travelers.

Day 3: Natural Wonders & Sustainability

Morning

  • Nordic Natural Highlights: Discover the region’s iconic natural attractions – from Norway’s dramatic fjords to Iceland’s famed Golden Circle route and geothermal Blue Lagoon – that draw travelers worldwide.
  • Arctic Phenomena: Understand polar wonders unique to the Nordics, such as the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) and the Midnight Sun, and their significance for seasonal tourism.
  • Seasonal Outdoor Adventures: Compare Nordic winter pursuits (skiing, dog sledding, ice hotel stays) with summer activities (hiking, fishing, kayaking), showcasing the region’s year-round adventure potential.

Afternoon

  • Wildlife and Conservation: Examine how Nordic countries promote sustainable nature tourism – such as ethical whale-watching tours – to protect wildlife and habitats while offering memorable experiences.
  • Sustainable Tourism Practices: Highlight Nordic environmental initiatives and traveler guidelines that balance visitor enjoyment with conservation, from preventing over-tourism to encouraging low-impact travel behaviors.

Day 4: Tourism Industry Structure & Compliance

Morning

  • Nordic Tourism Industry Overview: Review the Nordic tourism market’s scale, key segments, and current trends, including digital innovation and rising demand for eco-friendly travel, that shape industry growth.
  • Industry Stakeholders: Understand the structure of the Nordic tourism sector – the roles of government tourism boards, tour operators, DMCs, local guides, etc. – and how these players collaborate within the ecosystem.

Afternoon

  • Travel Policies and Regulations: Outline critical operational requirements such as Schengen visa procedures, the importance of traveler insurance, and local environmental rules to ensure compliant, safe tours.
  • EU Directives and Standards: Learn about European Union travel directives (e.g. Package Travel regulations, consumer rights laws, data protection/GDPR) and local licensing rules that govern Nordic tourism services.
  • Chinese Tourist Considerations: Address common issues and precautions for Chinese travelers in the Nordics – from understanding traffic laws and tax refund processes to respecting public etiquette and regulations abroad.

Day 5: Itinerary Design & Business Collaboration

Morning

  • Tailored Itinerary Planning: Discuss how to craft both classic multi-country Nordic tours and specialized single-country itineraries, adapting to different interests and travel themes.
  • Supplier Partnerships: Identify criteria for selecting reliable local suppliers (transportation, hotels, attractions) and learn to form solid partnerships and contracts that ensure quality and sustainability.
  • Logistics Coordination: Tackle the challenges of complex Nordic trips – optimizing cross-country transportation, managing time across itineraries, and maintaining clear communication with all partners.

Afternoon

  • Case Study Insights: Review successful Nordic tour packages and business models to understand how engaging itineraries and targeted marketing have attracted and satisfied Chinese travelers.
  • Quality and Performance: Establish methods for monitoring supplier performance and service quality, ensuring high standards and compliance are maintained in all travel collaborations.
  • Practical Exercise: Apply the course knowledge in a final capstone project by designing and presenting a comprehensive Nordic travel itinerary that integrates local partnerships and cultural insights.

Conclusion and Additional Support

  • Provide an e-handbook on major Nordic tourism resources.
  • Establish a WeChat group for ongoing Q&A and sharing.
  • Recommend connections to Nordic tourism organizations and resource providers.