Wine Tourism - New Career Path For Bath Spa University Students?
31st January 2009
Wine tourism is the latest branch of the tourism industry being introduced to a group of students at Bath Spa University.
As part of their Tourism Management degree course the students were given a presentation by a Master of Wine, James John, who is Principal of Bath Wine School. This is the first time that wine tourism has been included in the course.
James John, who is one of only 250 Masters of Wine in the world, explained to the students why visiting vineyards and wine tasting are increasing in popularity and guided them through a range of different grape varieties.
James's lecture has inspired the students to add wine tourism to their career options. Although UK vineyards cannot compete with the size and numbers of those in France, California and many other wine-producing countries, they do provide an expanding alternative for visitors closer to home. There are nearly 400 vineyards across the UK and over 30 in the South West.
The Course Leader for Tourism Management at Bath Spa, Alan Marvell, said: "Food and drink are important for establishing and promoting local identity. UK wines have improved tremendously during the last ten years and its wineries are benefitting from a continued growth in wine tourism.
"The students enjoyed participating in James's seminar. Many are now expressing an interest in the wine industry after he shared some of his expert knowledge with them."
Alongside traditional aspects of the tourism industry, the Bath Spa course covers new and emerging forms of tourism. Since last year it has also included the commercial opportunities of space travel.
