About Event:

Session 1: Modernizing Resorts into Sustainable Destinations The session focuses on transforming resorts into sustainable destinations. It explores strategies to modernize resorts while maintaining economic, environmental, social and cultural sustainability. Discussions will cover innovations in infrastructure, energy efficiency, spatial planning, urban development, and eco-friendly practices that enhance the visitor experience without compromising the natural or cultural integrity of the locations. The session will highlight how modern resort developments are adapted to address contemporary challenges in order to ensure their sustainable growth. Session 2: This session will explore emerging trends and innovations in the wellness, health, and spa industry, focusing on how these sectors can evolve to meet growing global demands. It will discuss how resorts can enhance their services to promote better health and well-being. Furthermore, the session will highlight how to shape the future of resorts so that wellness and health-focused destinations remain competitive, resilient, and aligned with global health and sustainability standards. Speakers: • Nino Tandilashvili – First Deputy Minister, Ministry of Environment and Agriculture Development of Georgia “Development of Ecotourism within the Protected Area of Georgia” • PhD Maria Pia Ancora – Senior Urban Development Specialist, ADB Sectors Group “Planning for Resilient Destinations: Urban Strategies for Environmental and Climate Resilience” • Dr. Ioannis Pappas – Director, Mediterranean Region of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council GSTC “Sustainable Tourism and Destinations – The role GSTC” • Benoît ROBERT - President, Cluster Montagne France • Dr. Kenichi Hashimoto – Chairman, 9steps Corporation of Japan TBC • Assoc. Professor Lela Potskhverashvili – Vice Director, Resorts Development Agency of Georgia • Csilla Mez?si –Secretary General, European Spas Association ESPA • Dr. Kurt von Storch – CEO, EuropeSpa med & wellness GmbH, Wiesbaden; Vice-President, Academy of Balneology and Climatology of Germany “The path to international markets - the international "EuropeSpa" standard for Medical Spas and the "European Health Destinations Standard" for Spa Towns” • Marcos Coplin – President, the Balneology Association of North America BANA "Creating an International Guestlist: Authentic Resort Culture, Local Identity, and Enhanced Programming."