Hi there, my name is Logan Shannon. I am a 35 years old student working on my Bachelor’s in Hospitality management in relation to the tourism industry. In my last semester of my studies I had the privilege to embark on a class trip to Latvia. In the wake of hearing this news, I must admit I knew nothing about what this country and what it has to offer, so I began to dive deeper into this new and unknown destination.
First thoughts
Upon my initial research, I wanted to hear the language for the first time. So I went to YouTube and watched a couple videos. Interesting to say the least, but nothing too exotic from other languages I have had the pleasure studying. Furthermore, I discovered about the medieval knighthoods of Latvia which really struck my interest. From their armor and bladesmithing, to their crusades and missions across the land. Unfortunately upon further research, this interest of mine would not be included in the travel plan for our class.
Kalvis Kalsers Dreamstime
New assignment
As apart of a group assignment, myself and fellow classmates educated ourselves on cultural heritage within rural regions of Tukums. Our tasks where to determine strengths, weaknesses, and challenges needed to overcome in hopes of promoting and developing more tourist activity in that area. From my studies I gathered that very little information besides small focus group surveys determined that local dining and the expansion of the region, being that it is rural, is a possible factor in developing this area. From the data I collected, there was new plans of development introduced to the Latvian tourist industry in 2019.
My feelings
Knowing this trip would be the last for my graduating class, I must admit the feeling of bittersweet emotion befell upon me. I knew it would be a lifelong memory to hold dear to me but sad that my friends would be departing into a new life chapter.