SWISS plays host to Dubai Women's College

On their return, the six students conducted a "Switzerland/Swiss Week" promotion, where they put into practice what they learnt from the experience.

In their final semester studying for a Higher Diploma with a Business & Managment - Travel & Tourism specialisation focus, the students worked with SWISS and Switzerland Tourism to prepare promotional strategies for a practical marketing project. The project took the form of a familiarisation trip to Switzerland, where they could apply the skills learnt in the programme and act as young Emirati ambassadors in a foreign country.

"Seeing as Switzerland was the birthplace for hospitality, SWISS saw this as a fabulous opportunity to nurture the careers of these young local women, all showing great interest in the tourism industry,"

said Hazel Saldanha, Manager of Marketing, Communications and Customer Relations, Swiss International Air Lines for the UAE and Gulf Region.

"SWISS were informed that the trip was a resounding success, and we are thrilled to have been a part of the adventure."

The week-long field trip saw the students actively participate in a fun-filled program arranged by Switzerland Tourism, which included school and clinic visits, press meetings, and excursions to places like Piz Gloria, a revolving restaurant atop the Schilthorn mountains and Mürren, a charming village with breathtaking views.

On returning to Dubai, they held a promotional week at the College cafeteria which they dedicated to SWISS and Switzerland. The annual event showcases major Swiss tourism regions and attractions, and is specifically designed to promote Switzerland as the preferred holiday destination and SWISS as airline of choice for Arab families and couples.

"Apart from experiencing the wonderful Swiss countryside and mountain scenery first hand, the students were able to network with travel and tourism professionals and gained an appreciation of the way business is conducted and how people live in other cultures," said Diane Hart, Travel and Tourism faculty member at Dubai Women's College.

"The trip to Switzerland was an excellent experience. Everything was well organised and an example of true Swiss efficiency," concluded Hart.