20 March 2026
In this article, Cassie Kuukuwa Krampah - MSc International Tourism and Hospitality Management(opens in new tab) student and Student Voice Representative, reflects on gaining valuable industry insight from a field trip to Portugal.
In early March, students from the MSc and BSc International Tourism and Hospitality Management (opens in new tab)programme participated in an academic field trip to Porto, Portugal - accompanied by academic staff, including programme manager Blerton Hyseni.
Connecting classroom theory with real-world tourism practices
The trip brought together 24 students for an immersive learning experience designed to connect classroom theory with real-world tourism and hospitality practices. During the four-day visit, students explored some of Porto’s most iconic cultural attractions.
The field trip included visits to the lively Mercado do Bolhão - a historic market that embodies the city’s rich culture and local gastronomy - and São Bento Railway Station, famous for its historic blue and white azulejo tile panels.
A key industry engagement aspect of the trip included a visit to the five-star Porto Bay Flores Hotel, where students observed luxury hospitality operations and gained insight into service standards within high-end accommodation. Followed by a presentation at the Visit Porto offices, understanding destination marketing strategies.
Exploring Porto’s heritage and tourism strategy
Other highlights included the São Francisco Church and the Palácio da Bolsa (Stock Exchange Palace) where students developed their understanding of Porto’s heritage, and how cultural landmarks contribute to the city’s tourism appeal.
We also visited the Real Companhia Velha wine cellars, including the production of the world-renowned Port wine.
“Field trips like this are incredibly valuable for students, allowing them to see how tourism and hospitality operate in real destinations, interact with industry professionals, and understand the cultural context behind tourism development.”
Dr Rubina Moniz Vieira, Lecturer (Tourism & Hospitality)
Experiencing Porto first-hand allowed students to analyse how attractions, hospitality services, and local culture influence each other to create a successful tourist destination. Observing real industry practices helped bridge the gap between theoretical learning and professional application.
Dr Rubina Moniz Vieira, Lecturer (Tourism & Hospitality) and trip organiser, said how: “Field trips like this are incredibly valuable for students, allowing them to see how tourism and hospitality operate in real destinations, interact with industry professionals, and understand the cultural context behind tourism development.”
It is evident that Porto has an impressive ability to balance modernisation with its deep historical roots, and the city’s rich history had a profound impact on the students.
