WRITER: THE AU LIBRARY
Assumption University of Thailand (AU)’s Dr. Scott Smith was a speaker at the recent 2024 Lucun Forum, part of the World Rural Tourism Conference in Huzhou, China. This prestigious international event brought together over 300 representatives from 40 countries to exchange ideas, form partnerships, and discuss innovative approaches to rural revitalization and sustainable tourism.
Dr. Scott’s Vision for the Future
In his speech, Heritage and Horizons: Building a Global Legacy of Sustainable Rural Tourism, Dr. Scott spoke about the transformative potential of rural tourism:
“Rural tourism does more than create jobs—it empowers communities, revives traditions, and builds sustainable growth that respects cultural heritage and natural landscapes.”
Dr. Scott went on to emphasize the unique strength of China’s model, saying, “This region celebrates its legacy of silk production, proving that cultural preservation and economic opportunity can indeed be woven together.”
He highlighted the transformative potential of rural tourism, noting that, “Sustainable rural tourism honors the land, enriches the people, and invites travelers to not only see but to feel the heartbeat of a destination, providing opportunities for youth to leave the field without leaving the village.”
He applauded China’s efforts in rural revitalization, noting, “China’s recognition by the UNWTO for its ‘Best Tourism Villages’ shows how heritage preservation and innovation can go hand in hand.”
Dr. Scott concluded his speech with a vision for the future:
“Imagine a world where rural communities are vibrant centers of culture, resilience, and innovation. This is the legacy we can build—a legacy of hope, growth, and unity to inspire generations to come.”
A Visit to Zhili: A Cultural Tourism Hub
Following the forum, delegates visited Zhili for the founding conference of the World Kids Wear Alliance and the grand opening of the China Children’s Clothing Art Center. The center showcases interactive exhibits on clothing manufacturing and the region’s rich history in children’s wear, blending fashion, culture, and tourism into a must-see destination for visitors.
A Personal Highlight: A Surprise Reunion
One of the unexpected highlights of Dr. Scott’s trip was a surprise visit from Miss Wu Jiajing, an alumna of Assumption University of Thailand. Miss Wu, who earned her Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management, noticed Dr. Scott’s social media post about his visit to Huzhou. Upon seeing that he was nearby, she reached out and made the trip to meet him.
“It’s always heartwarming to reconnect with former students,” Dr. Scott shared. “Seeing how they’ve grown and hearing about their successes is a reminder of the impact of education and the bonds we create at AU.”
The Road Ahead
The Lucun Forum 2024 highlighted the potential of rural tourism to drive economic and cultural growth worldwide. Dr. Scott’s role as a speaker underscored the importance of global collaboration, education, and sustainability in shaping the future of tourism.
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