Hospitality Research Cluster

The Hospitality Research Cluster focuses on exploring how the rich cultural, gastronomic, and artistic heritage of Cyprus can be thoughtfully incorporated into contemporary hospitality experiences and analysis of trends around the industry. As global travellers increasingly seek meaningful and authentic encounters, this cluster examines how traditional Cypriot practices ranging from local gastronomy and handcrafts experiences to traditions and
community customs that can inspire innovative service models, strategies and explanation of phenomena that enhance guest engagement while supporting cultural preservation.

Through an interdisciplinary and collaborative research approach, students will investigate the ways in which heritage-based storytelling, sustainable practices, and culturally informed design can shape the future of hospitality. The cluster encourages students to engage with local producers, artisans, and cultural organisations to better understand how hospitality can serve as a platform for both cultural expression and economic empowerment. By blending academic research with practical application, students will develop creative concepts, experiential proposals, and evidence-based strategies that showcase Cyprus’ unique identity as a destination.

The research cluster is structured around five interconnected themes:

• Rediscovering Local Heritage: A Collaborative Hospitality Project Inspired by Cyprus Gastronomy and Cultural Traditions
• Reviving Authenticity: Enhancing Guest Experiences Through Cyprus’ Culinary and Handcraft Heritage
• From Tradition to Table: A Hospitality Innovation Project Showcasing Cyprus’ Local Food, Crafts, and Stories
• Sustainable Hospitality: Integrating Cyprus’ Traditional Practices into Modern Guest Experience Design
• Cultural Immersion: Reimagining Hospitality Services Through Cyprus’ Folklore, Handcrafts, and Culinary Art

Together, these themes invite students to explore how local identity can be celebrated and reimagined within hospitality contexts, fostering a deeper connection between guests, culture, and community by researching current trends around the hospitality industry. The cluster ultimately aims to inspire hospitality solutions that are authentic, sustainable, and culturally enriching.

1. Strengthen Cultural Awareness and Preservation

• Explore Cyprus’ traditional gastronomy, crafts, and folklore as valuable foundations for contemporary hospitality.
• Analyse how heritage-driven experiences contribute to preserving cultural identity and enriching the destination narrative.

2. Enhance Guest Experience Through Authenticity and Storytelling

• Investigate how authentic, locally inspired elements influence guest satisfaction and emotional connection.
• Develop proposals that use storytelling, sensory design, and cultural engagement to elevate guest experiences.

3. Encourage Innovation in Heritage-Based Hospitality Practices

• Experiment with modern adaptations of traditional foods, crafts, and rituals to create unique hospitality offerings.
• Design innovative concepts that balance creativity with cultural respect and integrity.

4. Promote Sustainable and Community-Centred Tourism Approaches

• Examine how local sourcing, handcraft traditions, and partnerships with community stakeholders support sustainable development.
• Propose hospitality solutions that generate positive social, cultural, and economic impact for local communities.

5. Develop Applied Research and Collaborative Skills

• Engage in field research, stakeholder interviews, and interdisciplinary teamwork to inform project outcomes.
• Strengthen students’ abilities to conduct academic research, apply critical thinking, and communicate professionally within hospitality contexts.

Markou, C., Theofanous, G., & Michael, D. (2024). Managing tourist booking intentions: A study of hotel marketing strategies during the COVID-19 crisis in Cyprus. Journal of Global Hospitality and Tourism, 3(2), 141-159. DOI: 10.5038/2771-5957.3.2.1053.

Available at: https://digitalcommons.usf.edu/jght/vol3/iss2/5/

Theofanous, G., Sakka, G., & Markou, C. (2024, September). ASSESSING THE INTEGRATION OF ACCESSIBLE TOURISM CONTENT IN CYPRUS’HIGHER EDUCATION: THE CASE OF HOSPITALITY AND TOURISM PROGRAMS. In 17th Annual Conference of the EuroMed Academy of Business.

Available at: https://www.diva-portal.org/smash/get/diva2:1939936/FULLTEXT01.pdf#page=1094

Academics: Dr. Chrystalla Markou, Mrs. Anna Chrysaphi, Mr. Kyriakos Markou

Current Students: Haider Husnain, Christiana Papetta

Graduates: Panagiota Kyprianou, Kyriakos Christofi