D1 Professional blog post
The Future of Tourism Rests on Softer Skills; 
Authors: Laitio, Kirsi; de Andrés González, Olena
Publisher: Turun yliopisto
Publication year: 2026
Journal: Leads-blogi
Issue: 14.5.2026
Publication's open availability at the time of reporting: Open Access
Publication channel's open availability : Open Access publication channel
Web address : https://sites.utu.fi/leads/the-future-of-tourism-rests-on-softer-skills/
Expectations and demands on tourism have changed substantially over the past decades. In particular, the importance of social skills, accessibility and inclusiveness has increased. Our interaction skills and practices can make the travel experience to be good and pleasant or poor and disagreeable, from empathetically greeting guests to ensuring that services are accessible to all on an equal basis. This article explores how strong interpersonal skills and inclusive practices work conjointly to create welcoming, respectful, and rewarding journeys for everyone involved.
Keywords:
matkailu, Social skills, soft skills, sosiaaliset taidot, Tourism, Tourism experience