Even though Babet no longer works at the Urban Leisure & Tourism Lab Amsterdam as a learning coach, her expertise is invaluable. That is why we are happy to have her give guest lectures to our students.
Babet owns a research agency that focuses on making tourism and recreation in the Netherlands more sustainable. This fits in seamlessly with the themes we are working on in the lab, and in this way Babet can use her practical experience to give students relevant examples.
3 questions to Babet
1. Which focal points do you consider important for Amsterdam as a tourist and leisure city?
In my opinion, it is important to find the right balance between three main focus points: the environment, the economy and social welfare. Tourism is inextricably linked to the environment and therefore to our living environment. This means that tourism on the one hand depends on the environment, but on the other hand also has an impact on the environment. If we approach this in a regenerative way, we can find a balance that is desirable for both social well-being and the environment. Tourism can create a connection between visitors and local residents, which can lead to enhanced tourism experiences and their significance.
2. What is your favorite place in Amsterdam Noord and why?
My favorite place in Amsterdam Noord is not so much one place, but the route from CS ferry to Buikslotermeerplein always gives me a very calming feeling.
3. What tip do you have for the ULT Lab to improve cooperation between education, research and the professional field?
My biggest lesson in the lab and within design-based research is: keep experimenting and, above all, playing. This is how the most creative ideas emerge.
