We are proud to announce that the Pomorskie Tourist Board has joined the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC). This is an important step in the long-term process of strengthening the sustainable transformation of tourism in the Pomerania region.

What is the GSTC?

The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) establishes and manages global standards for sustainable tourism (formerly known as the GSTC Criteria). Its goal is to increase knowledge and practices of responsible tourism among public and private stakeholders. The GSTC is an independent and neutral organization responsible for global standards, developing knowledge about sustainable practices, promoting universal principles, and building demand for environmentally friendly travel.

Our path to GSTC

GSTC membership is a result of PROT’s planned and responsible actions.

In May 2025, five members of our team successfully completed training and passed the GSTC standards exam, increasing the organization’s expertise in sustainable tourism. Then, in August, we established the PROT Green Team, whose task is to coordinate internal initiatives and further strengthen the green transformation. The next step was to join the GSTC in October 2025, an organization that sets the direction for sustainable tourism worldwide.

Why do we need this membership?

Joining the GSTC gives us:

• access to the latest global knowledge and educational tools,
• the opportunity to collaborate with an international network of experts and industry leaders,
• the chance to use GSTC standards in practical support for pomorskie tourism,
• strengthening Pomerania’s position as a region of responsible tourism.

We want to actively use GSTC resources to:

• educate and inspire our members and partners,
• support the Pomorskie tourism industry in its transformation,
• develop tourism products in line with the principles of social and environmental responsibility.

We are working for the future of Pomerania

Our membership in the GSTC is in line with PROT’s vision and mission — to build Pomerania as an open, friendly, competitive, and sustainable region. We believe that the tourism of the future must care for people, nature, and local heritage — and we want to be one of the leaders in this direction.

On October 10, the Baltic Opera became the true heart of pomorskie tourism. This unique event showed how strong and cohesive our industry is – we create high quality because we work together, support each other, and are kind to one another. This is our everyday life and our DNA.

Celebrating successes together, sharing inspiration, and rewarding those who have a real impact on the development of the region builds our strength. Among the several hundred participants were representatives of local governments, universities, cultural institutions, Local Tourist Organizations, and PTTK branches – each of them contributes to the success of Pomorskie. A special place is reserved for companies that support our initiatives, such as Energa from the Orlen Group, a strategic partner of the event, involved in the development of tourism, culture, and sport in the region.

This year’s celebrations, held under the slogan “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation,” were an opportunity to discuss how joint actions and partnerships translate into the Pomorskie brand. It is thanks to such support and commitment that we were able to appreciate those who are the driving force behind our industry.

The “Tourism Power” award granted by Energa went to Piotr Wierzbowski, organizer of Wanoga Gravel and creator of the Adventure Reserve – an example of how shared passion and cooperation lead to success. The most important awards, distinctions, and anniversaries – including the Gryf Pomorski for Prof. Andrzej Januszajtis and awards for individuals and institutions distinguished in the field of tourism – show that together we can achieve more. It is mutual kindness, support, and pride in being part of this industry that make Pomorskie a unique place – not only on the map of Poland, but also in the hearts of the people who create it.

The awards of the Marshal of the Pomorskie Province for 2025 show how many fantastic initiatives are created thanks to the joint work and passion of people associated with our industry. The award in the ‘tourist offer 2024’ category went to Barbara and Bartosz Idczak, owners of Lawendowa Osada (Lavender Village) – proof that family-run, authentic places create the atmosphere of Pomorskie. The main awards in this category went to the Museum of the Second World War in Gdańsk and the City of Gdynia for its Modernist Downtown – both projects show how we combine history with modernity and openness to visitors. The Municipal Sports and Recreation Center in Sopot and the Sopot Tourist Organization were awarded the “Event of the Year 2024” prize for organizing WFFA PULSE Sopot 2024 – the European Freestyle Football Championships. It is thanks to such initiatives that Pomorskie is becoming an arena for international events, and we, as a community, support and cheer each other on. The main prize in the “Personality of the Year 2024” category went to Jacek Debis, and the Gdańsk Museum was recognized for its research, conservation, and adaptation of the Wisłoujście Fortress – these are investments that will remain with us for years to come and inspire future generations. In the “Innovation in Tourism” category, the award went to Goyki 3 Artinkubator, which proves that creativity and the courage to introduce change are our strengths. The unique atmosphere of the event was emphasized by a concert by Joanna Knitter and her band – music, conversations, and smiles filled the Baltic Opera with positive energy.

It was a day when we really felt the power of Pomorskie tourism: cooperation, kindness, and support. Such meetings build our brand and show that together we can achieve even more. The regional celebrations were held under the honorary patronage of the Ministry of Sport and Tourism, the Polish Tourist Organization, the Polish Chamber of Commerce for the Hotel Industry, and the PTTK Main Board. The strategic partner of the event was Energa from the Orlen Group, which consistently supports the development of tourism in the region. ( www.energa.pl )

On October 10, the Baltic Opera became the heart of pomorskie tourism. This unique event brought together representatives of the industry, providing a space to exchange inspiration and reward those who have a real impact on the development of tourism in our region.

Several hundred people celebrated a good year for tourism in Pomorskie! Among the participants were representatives of the most important communities – from local authorities, through universities and cultural institutions, to Local Tourist Organizations and branches of the Polish Tourist and Sightseeing Society (PTTK).

Official guests included: Marshal of the Pomorskie Province Mieczysław Struk, member of the Provincial Board Agnieszka Baranowska, Deputy Governor Emil Rojek, and President of the Polish Tourist Organization Rafał Szmytke. The strategic partner of the event was Energa from the Orlen Group.

This year’s regional celebrations, held under the slogan ‘Tourism and Sustainable Transformation,’ were hosted by journalist Robert Silski. After the ceremonial opening, he invited guests to a debate moderated by Marta Chełkowska, president of the Pomorskie Tourist Board.

The debate focused on the impact and value of sponsored events on the development of tourism and building the region’s brand. Magdalena Marszałkowska, Director of the Marketing Department at Energa SA, and Arkadiusz Labudda, President of Grano Group, joined the discussion. The topic fit in perfectly with the activities of the Energa Group, which, as a strategic partner of the pomorskie celebrations, presented the “Tourism Power” award in the “Active Tourism in Pomorskie” category. The award was received by Piotr Wierzbowski, organizer of Wanoga Gravel and creator of the Adventure Reserve.

– Energa embraces sport, Energa embraces culture, but Energa also embraces curiosity about the world. And it is in this curiosity about the world that we find tourism and active tourism projects. Tourism is close to my heart, it is an important element of the Energa Group’s sponsorship. We are here, we are in Pomerania, and we want to support Pomerania’s tourism products,” said Magdalena Marszałkowska, Director of the Marketing Department at Energa, part of the Orlen Group.

Who received the Pomeranian Griffin, awards, and distinctions this year?

As always, the Pomorskie celebrations of World Tourism Day were full of awards and distinctions for those who have made an exceptional contribution to tourism in the region. This year, the most important award, the Pomeranian Griffin, went to Professor Andrzej Januszajtis.

“Ladies and gentlemen, I am deeply moved, but this is not an award just for me, it is an award for Gdańsk. Gdańsk has a wonderful history and such magnificent monuments, thanks to the hard work of numerous architects, historians, and art historians. I am moved, this is a day of great joy in my life,” said Professor Andrzej Januszajtis from the stage, who after his speech thanked his wife, bringing tears of emotion to the eyes of the guests present in the hall.

Full list of honorees:

– Professor Andrzej Januszajtis – Gryf Pomorski

– Andrzej Piotr Szydłowski – Ministry of Sport and Tourism award “For services to tourism”

Congratulations on the anniversaries:

– 30th anniversary of the ferry connection between Gdynia and Karlskrona Stena Line

-20th anniversary of the GLOBALTICA International Festival of World Cultures in Gdynia

– 150th anniversary of the Lighthouse in Czołpino

– 120th anniversary of the narrow-gauge railway line Prawy Brzeg Wisły – Stegna-Sztutowo

– 90th anniversary of the Gdańsk Scout Association

– 50th Wdzydze Fair

– 30th anniversary of Kraina w Kratę in Swołowo

– 20th anniversary of the Cistercian Music Summer in Żarnowiec

– 25th World Kashubian Congress

Awards of the Marshal of the Pomorskie Province for 2025:

– Barbara and Bartosz Idczak – owners of Lawendowa Osada – distinction in the tourist offer category 2024

– Museum of the Second World War in Gdańsk – main award in the tourist offer category 2024

– City of Gdynia for the Modernist Downtown of Gdynia – main award in the tourist offer category 2024

– for the Municipal Sports and Recreation Center in Sopot and the Sopot Tourist Organization for WFFA PULSE Sopot 2024. European Freestyle Football Championships – main prize in the 2024 event of the year category

– Jacek Debis – main prize in the Personality of the Year 2024 category

– Gdańsk Museum for research, conservation, and adaptation of the Wisłoujście Fortress – main prize in the Tourism Investment 2024 category

– Goyki 3 Artinkubator – main prize in the Innovation in Tourism category

The artistic setting for the event was provided by singer Joanna Knitter and her band. It was a day full of inspiration, new acquaintances, and positive energy – exactly what Pomorskie tourism needs! The regional celebrations were held under the honorary patronage of the Ministry of Sport and Tourism, the Polish Tourist Organization, the Polish Chamber of Commerce for the Hotel Industry, and the PTTK Main Board. The strategic partner of the event was Energa from the Orlen Group ( https://grupa.energa.pl/ , https://energa.pl ).

This Saturday, October 11, 2025, Sopot will become a place for discussions about harmony, health, and sustainable living. The Hotel Rezydent will host the First Scientific Conference “Man, Medicine, Harmony – A Shared Journey. Mens sana in corpore sano , organized by the Gdynia Maritime University, Bioneuromed from Gdańsk, and the Academia Europa Nostra association. The event is held under the patronage of the Marshal of the Pomeranian Province, the Mayor of Sopot, the Rector of the Gdynia Maritime University, and the Pomorskie Tourist Board.

The conference is devoted to health, well-being, and the idea of living in a slow rhythm. Experts will discuss how modern lifestyles affect our minds and bodies, as well as how we can regain balance in a world full of stimuli and rush. Speakers will include doctors, neurologists, psychiatrists, as well as specialists in sports, recreation, tourism, and nutrition. The meeting is open and interdisciplinary in nature, combining science with everyday experience.

There will also be practical elements. Participants will learn about modern methods of supporting health, including biofeedback, and take part in workshops led by doctors and trainers.

“We want NeuroDays to be a place where science meets everyday life. Slow tourism is not a fad, it is a way of thinking about people, their needs, and their relationship with nature,” emphasize the organizers.

Guests will include representatives of local governments, schools, psychological and pedagogical counseling centers, and health organizations. It is a good opportunity to exchange experiences and learn about new, pioneering solutions in the field of health and prevention. It is no coincidence that the conference is being held in Sopot, a city that has been promoting a healthy, sustainable lifestyle for years and serves as a health resort. The sea climate, nature, and peaceful surroundings create the perfect backdrop for discussions about the harmony of body and mind.

The experts involved in the NeuroDays project say that this is just the beginning.

In the future, they will share their knowledge and experience with people who want to live healthier and fuller lives, supporting local initiatives and educational activities.

More information about the program and speakers can be found at: www.neurodays.pl

The Pomorskie region has reason to be proud – two local tourism products have received the Polish Tourist Organization Certificate for the Best Tourism Product 2025:

September 27 is a special date for the tourism industry and all travel enthusiasts. Today we celebrate World Tourism Day, which this year is themed “Tourism and the Sustainable Transition.” It is a great opportunity to look at travel from a new perspective—one that is responsible and respectful of the world around us.

World Tourism Day – for the love of travel

World Tourism Day is an annual celebration that inspires people to explore the world and encourages them to reflect on the impact of tourism on culture, the economy, and the environment. In 2025, Malaysia is the official host of the event, and the theme is “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation.” Today, the tourism industry around the world is focused on implementing innovative, environmentally friendly solutions and promoting responsible practices to protect our shared heritage.

Pomorskie celebrates tourism locally

In the Pomorskie region, the celebrations do not end on September 27! On October 10, the local tourism industry will meet to celebrate and discuss the future of tourism in the Pomorskie Province. This is a unique opportunity to share experiences, inspire new activities, and work together to build the brand of Pomorskie as a friendly, modern, and sustainable place.

ENERGA from the Orlen Group – strategic partner of the pomorskie celebrations of World Tourism Day.

This would not be possible without the involvement of our strategic partner – ENERGA from the Orlen Group. It is thanks to their support that the local celebrations of World Tourism Day are gaining even more momentum. ENERGA from the Orlen Group, as one of the largest energy groups in Poland, has been actively supporting the development of the region for years, engaging in numerous social, educational, and ecological initiatives. Their presence during the Pomorskie tourism festival is not only real help, but also inspiration for further action in the spirit of innovation and care for the environment. Together we can do more!

www.energa.pl

Summer in Pomorskie was once again filled with the sounds of good energy and holiday hits. In June, the crew of “Eska on the Beach,” one of Eska TV’s most recognizable holiday productions, visited Pomorskie to film the next episodes of their summer series. The study visit took place in cooperation with the Pomorskie Tourist Board (PROT), which supported the recording process, provided information about the region’s attractions, and helped organize local visits.

Summer in Pomorskie was once again filled with the sounds of good energy and holiday hits. In June, the crew of “Eska on the Beach,” one of Eska TV’s most recognizable holiday productions, visited Pomorskie to film the next episodes of their summer series. The study visit took place in cooperation with the Pomorskie Tourist Board (PROT), which supported the recording process, provided information about the region’s attractions, and helped organize local visits.

The cooperation between the Pomorskie Tourist Board and the editorial team of Eska TV is another example of effective activities promoting the region in modern media. Thanks to the organizational and substantive support of PROT, the production was able to create attractive material presenting Pomorskie from many perspectives – from urban beaches and ports to nature reserves and ecological initiatives.

As emphasized by PROT representatives, cooperation with nationwide media is one of the most effective forms of promoting the region, allowing it to reach new audiences, especially young people for whom Eska is a natural source of information about trends, music, and ways to spend free time.

The broadcast of the episodes of “Eska on the Beach” was not only a summary of the summer season, but also an invitation to visit Pomorskie outside the main season. In the material, viewers could see that the region offers many opportunities – from outdoor activities and nature tourism to culture and local flavors.

PROT consistently builds the image of Pomorskie as a year-round destination – open, diverse, and inspiring. Joint projects with the media and internet creators are an important part of this strategy, allowing the region to be shown from an authentic, modern, and emotional perspective.

The Pomorskie Tourist Board would like to thank the editors of Eska TV for their fruitful cooperation and professional presentation of Pomorskie in the rhythm of summer. We believe that our joint activities will contribute to the further development of tourism in the region and encourage more people to discover the charms of Pomorskie – a place where summer never ends.

Study visit on the occasion of the launch of the Gdańsk–Budapest flight connection

On October 8–11, 2025, the Pomorskie Tourist Board hosted a group of journalists from Hungary who visited the region as part of a study visit organized to mark the launch of a new direct flight connection between Gdańsk and Budapest.

Impressions of Pomorskie: history, modernity, and hospitality

Guests from Hungary emphasized that the Tri-City surprised them with its diversity and friendly atmosphere. They were particularly impressed by the historic streets of Gdańsk’s Main Town, the region’s modern tourist infrastructure, the local cuisine based on fresh products and maritime traditions, as well as our warmth and hospitality.

At Uphagen’s House, guests were transported back in time to the 18th century, viewing the reconstructed interiors of old Gdańsk tenement houses. At the modern Amber Museum, the ladies discovered the secrets of “Baltic gold.” The ladies experienced strong emotions during their visit to the Museum of the Second World War, where the permanent exhibition made a big impression on the visitors.

In the heart of Gdynia, the journalists visited Dar Pomorza, a majestic sailing ship and symbol of the region’s maritime heritage. The walk around Gdynia also took our guests to the Emigration Museum, where they were impressed by stories of thousands of Polish and European emigrants who started their new lives in Gdynia.

The visit also included a moment of respite. A walk along the famous Sopot Pier provided an opportunity to experience the unique atmosphere of this seaside resort. In Oliwa, one of the greenest districts of Gdańsk, the journalists visited Oliwa Star – a unique place combining architecture and modern gastronomy.

At the end of their stay in the region, our guests visited the largest brick castle in Europe – the Castle Museum in Malbork.

New Gdańsk–Budapest connection – a bridge between regions

The launch of a direct Gdańsk–Budapest flight connection, operated by Wizz Air since July 2025, opens up new opportunities for tourism cooperation between the Pomeranian region and Hungary. This connection will facilitate travel for individual tourists and strengthen relations between the tourism industries of both regions. It is worth recalling that as part of activities promoting Gdańsk on the Hungarian market, the Pomorskie Tourist Board, together with representatives of Tri-City hotels, participated in industry workshops in Budapest.

The visit has already resulted in the first series of positive media reports in the Hungarian press and on the internet, which we believe will contribute to increased interest in the Pomeranian region among tourists from that country.

The visit was organized in cooperation with the Foreign Center of the Polish Tourist Organization in Budapest. We would like to express our sincere thanks to all PROT partners involved in the implementation of the program.

As part of the regional stage, the competition committee operating at the Pomorskie Tourist Board evaluated the submitted products. A total of 21 products were evaluated. Such a large number of applications is very encouraging and indicates the great diversity of our region’s product offer.

Three products were recommended for the national stage of the competition in the POT Certificate category:

St. John’s Center in Gdańsk is the vibrant cultural heart of Pomerania. The ancient Gothic temple combines history with contemporary art. It is a unique tourist product offering a unique, multidimensional experience. The main attraction is the combination of a Gothic monument with a modern performance space. Visitors can admire the historic interiors and monuments while immersing themselves in “Culture within Gothic walls!” It is also a prestigious stage that regularly hosts artists from Poland and around the world.

In just a moment, on October 1-2, we will meet at the European Solidarity Center for the next Baltic Sea Tourism Forum, and Gdańsk will become the center of discussions about the future of tourism in the Baltic Sea region.

Together, we will focus on the topics of regenerative and data-driven tourism—key directions for the development of the industry. We are expecting record attendance. Registration closed a few weeks ago due to overwhelming interest, but you can still join the waiting list—we encourage you to sign up.

Below you will find detailed information about the Forum, its program, speakers, and event partners.

About the Forum:

The Baltic Sea Tourism Forum (BSTF) is an annual forum of the Tourism Policy Area of the EU Strategy for the Baltic Sea Region, organized continuously since 2008. The aim of this event is to promote dialogue, build consensus, and develop a shared vision of the key challenges related to the development of tourism in the Baltic Sea region.

The Forum contributes significantly to the implementation of the macro-regional strategy and actions adopted by the European Commission, such as the “EU Pathway to Tourism.” The forum attracts key stakeholders in the tourism industry, including representatives of local and regional tourism organizations, regional authorities, local governments, organizations and entities implementing Interreg projects related to tourism, NGOs, and representatives of SMEs operating in the field of tourism.

This year’s agenda and theme:

???? Regenerative and data-driven tourism

BSTF2025 will bring together key industry representatives to discuss the future of sustainable, regenerative, and data-driven tourism in the Baltic Sea region.

Day 1: Regenerative tourism

Day 2: Data-driven tourism

???? Keynote speeches | ???? Good practices | ???? Networking | ???? Masterclasses

???? Forum agenda

???? Reserve list registration

Event organizers:

✅ Coordinators of the Tourism Policy Area of the EU Strategy for the Baltic Sea Region (EUSBSR)

✅ Ministry of Sport and Tourism of the Republic of Poland

✅ LOT Polish Airlines

✅ Pomorskie Tourist Board

✅ Pohjois-Pohjanmaan liitto – Oulu Regional Council (Finland)

✅ European Solidarity Center

with the support of the Interreg Baltic Sea Region program

Date and venue:

???? October 1–2, 2025

???? European Solidarity Center (ECS), pl. Solidarności 1, Gdańsk

Keynote speakers:

???? Anna Pollock, founder of Conscious.Travel

With over 52 years of experience in the tourism industry, Anna is a globally recognized visionary, strategist, and authority. For 15 years, Anna has been setting the direction for regenerative tourism, giving new meaning to how we perceive travel, the social aspects of tourism, and our planet. Her knowledge and approach are not only inspiring, but essential for responsibly shaping the future of tourism.

Anna’s main areas of activity:

• • challenging outdated paradigms – understanding the causes of crises and the need for profound systemic change,

• • empowering local communities – moving from a quantitative model to one that enables communities to develop in harmony with nature,

• • redefining hospitality—as a driving force for landscape restoration, regenerative agriculture, and cultural renewal.

???? Andreas Koch, trainer, sustainable tourism consultant, speaker, and founder of tourythm and Futouris e.V.

With over 25 years of experience, Andreas supports destinations and tourism companies in moving from talking about sustainability to taking real regenerative action. His conviction is clear: tourism has the power to contribute to a better world – as long as we practice it consciously and responsibly.

His speech at this year’s Forum will challenge and inspire us to go beyond “business as usual” and embrace regenerativity as a path of development for the Baltic Sea region and beyond.

Partners of the Baltic Sea Tourism Forum 2025:

1. Ministry of Sport and Tourism of the Republic of Poland

The Ministry of Sport and Tourism is an official partner of BSTF2025. As a key government institution supporting the development of sustainable and innovative tourism in Poland, the Ministry plays an important role in strengthening regional cooperation and shaping future tourism strategies.

Its involvement in this year’s Forum underscores the growing importance of regenerative and data-driven tourism as leading directions for the development of the tourism industry in the Baltic Sea region.

The partnership with the Ministry reflects a shared commitment to developing tourism models that not only minimize negative impacts but actively support the revitalization of local communities and ecosystems, while leveraging data and digital tools to improve decision-making, the quality of tourist experiences, and long-term planning.

The forum is co-financed as part of the project:

“Baltic Tourism Forum 2025 (#BSTF2025) – an international platform for cooperation on regenerative tourism and digital innovation”, co-financed by the Ministry as part of the Tourism Support Program 2025.

2. LOT Polish Airlines

Official carrier of the Baltic Sea Tourism Forum 2025

LOT Polish Airlines is a modern carrier connecting Central and Eastern Europe with the world. Its network includes direct long-haul flights to countries such as the United States, Canada, India, Japan, and South Korea.

The Polish carrier is systematically increasing the frequency of these connections and improving its in-flight offer, thus strengthening its market position in Central and Eastern Europe.

Long-haul connections are operated by Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, one of the most modern and technologically advanced wide-body aircraft in the world.

LOT Polish Airlines, founded in 1929, is the 11th oldest airline in the world and one of the most recognizable and respected Polish brands internationally.

3. Pomorskie Tourist Board (PROT)

The Pomorskie Tourist Board (PROT), as the leading institution responsible for promoting the Pomeranian Province as an attractive tourist destination, plays a key role in the development of sustainable and high-quality tourism in the region.

PROT’s involvement in this year’s Forum highlights the importance of regional leadership in shaping innovative tourism models and supporting international cooperation in the Baltic Sea region.

Thanks to its in-depth knowledge of local tourism conditions and its commitment to responsible development, PROT brings invaluable expertise in the field of regenerative and data-driven tourism to the discussion. Their participation will help to place global discussions in a regional context and present Pomerania as a modern and conscious center of tourism development.

4. European Solidarity Center (ESC)

The European Solidarity Center is an internationally recognized cultural institution and museum dedicated to the history and legacy of the Solidarity movement and the broader struggle for human rights and democracy in Europe. The ECS’s mission is to inspire civic engagement, dialogue, and international cooperation, which fits perfectly with the Forum’s goals of shaping a more sustainable and inclusive future for tourism in the Baltic Sea region.

Located in the heart of Gdańsk, a city of exceptional historical significance and dynamic development, the ECS is a unique and symbolic venue for discussions on regenerative and data-driven tourism. Forum participants will meet in a space that embodies transformation, resilience, and cross-border cooperation.

The ECS team looks forward to welcoming Forum participants to this inspiring venue, where ideas for a better tomorrow will be born.

5. Oulu Regional Council (Finland)

The Oulu Regional Council (Finland), as the regional body responsible for strategic development, innovation, and international cooperation, plays a key role in supporting sustainable development and cross-border cooperation in the Baltic Sea region. Its participation in this year’s Forum reflects a shared commitment to strengthening regional ties and promoting tourism that is both regenerative and innovation-driven.

Through its active involvement, the Oulu Regional Council brings valuable perspectives on the role of data, technology, and community-centered approaches in shaping the future of tourism in Northern Europe.

We are proud to work with the Council in developing dialogue and joint actions for a smarter and more resilient tourism sector.