From July 4th to 9th, faculty and students from the School of International Tourism and Management of City University of Macau visited

Beijing and engaged in academic exchange activities with Beijing Union University. The purpose of this activity was to promote cooperation

and academic exchange between the two universities in the field of tourism management, and to further broaden students' international

perspectives and professional understanding. The delegation, led by Gao Bo, Director of Student Affairs and Academic Programs, and IokTeng Esther Kou, Director of the Master's Degree Program, consisted of ten faculty members and students. They were warmly received by Professor Fang Zhongquan, the Director of the Tourism Development Research Institute at Beijing Union University.

Visiting Beijing United University

During the visit, the faculty and students had the opportunity to explore the National Experimental Teaching Demonstration Center,

immersive interactive laboratories, digital scenic area laboratories, virtual experience laboratories, and other high-tech facilities at Beijing

Union University. These experiences allowed the students to personally witness the innovative applications of modern technology in the

tourism industry. The analog demonstration of scenic area planning on the sand table vividly showcased the practical achievements in

tourism planning and management.

Visit to the laboratories

Professor Fang Zhongquan prepared a lecture for the faculty and students from Macau, focusing on the current situation and policies of the

tourism industry. He provided a clear analysis of the development trends in the tourism industry and interpreted the relevant policy

orientations. The faculty and students actively interacted with Professor Fang and gained valuable insights.

Professor Fang's lecture

This exchange activity greatly benefited the students. They expressed that the trip to Beijing not only broadened their academic horizons but also strengthened their passion and confidence in the tourism industry.

Student Testimonials：

Doctor of Philosophy in International Tourism Management, 2nd year, Li Xinwei

"The academic exchange activity with Beijing Union University has been an extremely enriching and meaningful journey for me. We had the

privilege to visit the Tourism Experimental Teaching Demonstration Center at Union University, where we witnessed firsthand the

demonstration of their tourism experiential teaching. At Union University, we had the opportunity to attend Professor Fang's expert lectures, which deeply analyzed important areas of tourism development and relevant national policies through six well-designed modules. This

experience greatly ignited my enthusiasm and motivation for in-depth exploration in the field of tourism management."

Master of International Hospitality and Tourism Management, 2nd year, Zhu Jin:

"The experiences and insights gained during the exchange period have not only broadened my academic horizons but also sparked my

interest in professional knowledge. The rich cultural activities allowed me to appreciate the profoundness of Chinese culture. This exchange

has not only enhanced my professional competence but also ignited my boundless anticipation for future learning endeavors."

Master of International Hospitality and Tourism Management, 2nd year, Gong Tingting

"It was an honor to participate in the research and study activities organized jointly by two universities. Professor Fang Zhongquan's warm

reception and detailed explanations were highly beneficial to me. We experienced the Smart Tourism course at the University and attended

Professor Fang Zhongquan's lecture, which comprehensively analyzed the current situation and policies of the tourism industry in mainland

China. These insights deepened my professional knowledge and ignited my passion for research in tourism management."

Doctor of Philosophy in International Tourism Management, 2nd year, Hu Yi

"As a student of tourism program, I was fortunate to participate in the academic exchange trip to Beijing Union University. Through in-depth

exchanges with the teachers at Union University and visits to the campus, my academic horizons have been broadened, and my curiosity for

exploring new concepts in tourism management has been sparked. This trip not only allowed me to appreciate the blend of ancient and

modern in Beijing but also planted the seed of pursuing excellence and daring to put theory into practice deep in my heart."

Doctor of Philosophy in International Tourism Management, 2nd year, Wen Yirong

"During the exchange visit to Beijing Union University, I deeply felt the collision of academia and the blending of cultures. This journey not

only broadened my academic horizons but also deepened my understanding of the diversified development of tourism management. The

scholars at Union University presented us with a knowledge feast through their unique insights and rigorous academic attitude, igniting my

passion for exploring new trends and technologies in the field of tourism."

Master of International Hospitality and Tourism Management, 2nd year, Wang Xinyue

"During the exchange with Beijing Union University, we visited the university's Experimental Teaching Demonstration Center, which

showcased their high-standard research conditions, including key laboratories and advanced simulation facilities. This has filled me with

anticipation for future academic cooperation between our two universities. Professor Fang Zhongquan provided us with explanations and

discussions on China's tourism policies and the evaluation scheme for scenic spots. This not only broadened my perspective but also

stimulated my thinking about social issues."

Doctor of Philosophy in International Tourism Management, 1st year, Liu Liang

"Firstly, I would like to thank Professor Gao Bo and Professor IokTeng Esther Kou for leading the research trip to the National Museum. As a

team, we discussed the advantages and disadvantages of virtual reality technology and 3D printing technology in museums, as well as how to enhance the collaboration between interpreters and service personnel. Professor Fang Zhongquan from Beijing Union University shared with us the evaluation scheme for Chinese scenic spots and the future planning of the tourism industry, providing me, as a graduating student,

with a clearer understanding of future developments."

Master of International Hotel Management, 1st year, Wang Yaqi

"Participating in this research and study exchange activity has been a rewarding experience for me. Visiting Beijing's distinctive historical and modern cultural tourism attractions allowed me to combine theory with practice and truly appreciate the profound significance of the tourism profession. The exchanges with teachers and fellow students at Beijing Union University have enriched my perspective and helped me

understand the differences in tourism development under different cultures. I am grateful to the university and Beijing Union University for

providing this valuable opportunity, which has enriched my professional knowledge and contributed to my continuous growth through

practical experiences."