In Daday, declared as a ‘calm city’, the effects of membership were evaluated

Kastamonu University Faculty Member Hikmet Haberal, evaluated the possible effects of membership in the Daday district of Kastamonu, declared as a ‘slow city’, and published a paper. Kastamonu University also participated in the 5th International Travel and Tourism Dynamics Congress organized in collaboration with Ankara Haci Bayram Veli University and Mingachevir State University. Tourism Faculty Member Hikmet Haberal from Kastamonu University attended the congress held in Ankara, with this year’s theme being ‘innovative approaches in tourism entrepreneurship’. Speaking at the congress, Haberal, who represented Kastamonu University with three papers, also offered the traditional Turkish dessert ‘cekme helva’ to the local and foreign guests attending the congress. Haberal presented papers in English and Turkish at the congress, stating that ‘Citta Slow’ is an international movement established to protect local cultural heritage, promote a calm lifestyle, and support the sustainable use of natural environment and resources. He emphasized that the town of Daday in Kastamonu, declared as a ‘slow city’, will undergo detailed examination regarding the effects of its membership. Moreover, Haberal highlighted that Daday, embracing the principles of Cittaslow movement, strengthens local development and identity preservation efforts by adopting a slow pace of life. Daday, known for its natural beauty, cultural richness, and traditional lifestyle, holds a significant place within the Cittaslow movement due to its geographical location and historical wealth. Haberal mentioned that Daday in the Black Sea Region, with its deep-rooted history, natural beauty, and rich cultural texture, has hosted various civilizations from the Hittites to the Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans, contributing to the enrichment of cultural diversity over the long historical process. He expressed that the Cittaslow movement embraces an approach that not only involves local governments but also includes city residents, businesses, and visitors, aiming to ensure sustainable development and high quality living standards in cities. By implementing the fundamental principles of Cittaslow, cities can provide a more livable environment for current residents and future generations in today’s complex and rapidly changing world, helping cities become sustainable and happy communities not only today but also in the future. Haberal stated that ‘Slow city membership promotes local economic development’, emphasizing that slow city membership promotes environmental sustainability by encouraging the preservation of natural resources and adopting eco-friendly practices. He highlighted that the criteria for membership require the preservation of natural ecosystems and biodiversity, supporting the conservation of environmental impacts and reducing environmental effects. Secondly, slow city membership encourages local economic development by supporting local production, local trade, and handicrafts. This situation can contribute to the strengthening of small businesses and artisans in the region, increasing local job opportunities and contributing to the retention of income in the region. Thirdly, slow city membership attaches importance to the preservation of cultural riches. Preserving and promoting traditional architecture, local handicrafts, folklore, and traditional festivals can help strengthen the region’s cultural identity. Lastly, slow city membership can increase social solidarity. Participatory management processes and joint activities enable local communities to come together and act together, strengthening social bonds and increasing solidarity in the region. When all these effects come together, slow city membership can bring about a positive transformation in the region and make a significant contribution to adopting a sustainable lifestyle. The 5th International Travel and Tourism Dynamics Congress, held for 3 days at Ankara Haci Bayram Veli University, featured 7 presentations and more than 100 papers presented in over 10 sessions.