In this episode of the SLOWDOWN podcast, BIA Innovator Campus project manager Clodagh Qualter is joined by colleague Pablo Moreno to explore how European policy learning is helping shape the future of slow tourism in Galway. The discussion focuses on the Interreg Europe SLOWDOWN project and how its policy improvement work is moving from strategy into practical tools for local tourism operators.
The episode features insights from Margaret Leahy, Eithne Nic Dhonnchadha, Enda McEvoy, and project manager John Neary of Galway County Council. Together, they discuss Galway’s work on the Food Tourism Operators Manual and the Signposts Module, both designed to support farmers, food producers, rural families, and community-based operators to develop authentic, sustainable visitor experiences.
A key theme of the episode is how Galway can adapt international learning, including the Local Gastronomy Points model explored through exchanges with Sibiu County Council in Romania, in a way that is practical, place-specific, and rooted in local culture. The conversation looks at food tourism, circular economy principles, stakeholder participation, Gaeltacht culture, Irish language, storytelling, and the importance of ensuring tourism supports communities rather than overwhelming them.
The episode highlights that slow tourism is not simply about pace, it is about respect, sustainability, local ownership, and creating tourism experiences that strengthen the places and communities’ visitors come to enjoy.