https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/66037 2026-04-05T17:11:29Z 2026-04-05T17:11:29Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145177 2026-03-26T14:36:54Z 2022-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: The concept of memory in cultural tourism : enhancing the visitor’s experience at the Inquisitor’s Palace, National Museum of Ethnography Abstract: This study focuses on the application of intangible cultural heritage as an interpretation component in the Inquisitor’s Palace – National Museum of Ethnography in Birgu. This interpretation strategy can add value to the Palace as another cultural product in Malta’s tourism package. The Literature review looks closely at a number of key aspects: nostalgia, memory, oral history, domestic tourism, interpretation and ethnographic studies. The methodology discusses the purpose and the strategy used to collect the data, explaining the rationale why one-to-one interviews were conducted. Findings are reported and the researcher selected the important themes that emerged from the collected data, proceeding to propose how Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) can be implemented and interpreted at the Inquisitor’s Palace – National Museum of Ethnography (IP). In conclusion, the thesis proposes a set of suggestions that can be implemented to create a new interpretation strategy for the IP, inclusive of ICH and a number of interactive activities, so as to engage the visitors in a unique experience. Description: M.A.(Melit.)

2022-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145015 2026-03-18T14:06:49Z 2022-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Spa & wellness tourism recovery in the post-Covid-19 context of Malta Abstract: Emerging concerns regarding Covid-19’s effects on the tourism industry are appealing to the attention of researchers. Alike several other tourism niches, the Spa and Wellness sector has been ponderously troubled by the novel coronavirus. The purpose of this dissertation is to investigate the pandemic‘s impact on Spa and Wellness tourism under the aspects of demand and supply of its service provision in the context of Malta. Using a qualitative method, the current researcher has investigated how the expert professionals in the spa industry viewed the Covid-19 situation and took measurements for change and survival. In spite of numerous arose difficulties and challenges, the Spa and Wellness industry in Malta has turned out to be resilient by reinventing itself throughout the pandemic. Besides, other mutations in supply and a positive trend in demand are expected in the post-Covid-19 scenario in the Maltese context. Description: B.A. (Hons)(Melit.)

2022-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145014 2026-03-18T14:05:07Z 2022-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: Malta and destination branding : is gastronomic tourism being implemented enough? Abstract: Gastronomy tourism in Malta has been gaining increased attention during the last two to three years. Tourists are seeking specialised gastronomic experiences whilst ensuring that everything is conducted in a sustainable manner. Although people travel for different reasons, gastronomy has certainly increased as a motivating factor for one to travel. Gastronomy is also being recognised to enhance a destination brand’s identity and image. This research set out to discover whether the current gastronomic system in place is attracting enough tourists to Malta. The study seeks to answer the research question by carrying out a qualitative study with the use of semi-structured interviews. Additionally, the present author speaks about the limitations encountered whilst carrying out the study and the emphasis on lack of literature locally. The findings of this study suggest that the branding of gastronomy tourism in Malta has made some improvements, however there is ample potential that still has to be tapped into. Additionally, the present author puts forward recommendations to the industry and for future research in chapter 5 focusing on creating more awareness about the topic and also the need to support the supply-side of the tourism industry. Description: B.A. (Hons)(Melit.)

2022-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145005 2026-03-18T08:23:45Z 2022-01-01T00:00:00Z

Title: An evaluation of professional development opportunities in the hospitality sector Abstract: Professional growth and leadership are critical components of a thriving industry. This is especially important in the leisure and events industries, which rely significantly on people skills to succeed. In such a competitive environment, the value of qualified staff across the board cannot be overstated. This study evaluates opportunities of professional development, with a focus on leadership abilities in 5-Star hotels in Malta. This advancement will focus on managerial individuals as well as their team members. The researcher will investigate the different styles of leadership, motivation, performance appraisal, professional growth, training, and development. The question of how professional development is treated in the hospitality industry is the main topic of this research. A set of semi-structured interviews were conducted to provide insights on the subject. The results obtained showed that while directors showed certain characteristics of transformational leadership, these leadership traits need to be further developed. It was found that training and professional growth are still lacking in these hotels and are not engrained in their culture. Interestingly, the interviews took place during a pandemic, and it was fascinating to witness how leaders react in a crisis. This research does not claim to be a detailed examination of study, but it does raise interesting points that would necessitate extensive research to reach appropriate conclusions. This may assist hoteliers in this industry in adopting the correct mindset with regards to leadership and professional development. Description: B.A. (Hons)(Melit.)

2022-01-01T00:00:00Z