On October 13, during the Tourism Promotion Forum, a debate titled “Gastronomy as an Element of Tourism Strategy: Storytelling, Events, and Place Branding” took place. Among the panelists was Alfred Wagner, Deputy Director of the Department of City Promotion and Tourism of the Wrocław City Hall and President of the Wrocław Tourism Organisation.

Together with representatives of regional institutions and industry experts, he discussed the importance of gastronomy in shaping the image of cities and regions, as well as its role in creating authentic tourist experiences.

The panel also featured:

  • Jan Mazurczak, President of the Poznań Local Tourism Organisation,

  • Piotr Polanek, Director of the Tourism Department at the Marshal’s Office of the Małopolska Region,

  • Izabela Stelmańska, Deputy Director of the Department of Culture, Promotion and Tourism at the Marshal’s Office of the Mazovia Region,

  • Maciej Dobrzyniecki, President and Founder of the Gastronomic Academy in Poland.

During the discussion, participants emphasized that gastronomy is not only an important part of local culture, but also an effective tool for promoting tourist destinations. Culinary experiences often become the first step in discovering a city — and one of the most memorable impressions visitors take home with them.