California State University, Monterey Bay’s (CSUMB) Executive Director of Sustainable Hospitality Management, Paige Viren, joined the Agribusiness Club for their final edition of the virtual guest speaker series on April 26.
Viren introduced her presentation by sharing her mission of building tourism that supports economic growth and gives back to the community. She believes there’s endless potential in the Monterey’s cultural qualities and local opportunities, a region full of unique experiences.
Sustainability is one of Viren’s primary objectives, and with over 16 years of researching consumer behavior, she carries an extensive understanding of developing rural attractions that foster economic diversification.
Viren specializes in agritourism, leaving visitors with a series of memorable adventures, entertaining and educational travel that you can’t find elsewhere.
Uniting conservation communities and creating sustainable exploration is at the heart of agritourism. Viren shared that celebrating culture is a specific process, recognizing an environment’s landmarks and embracing what a place tastes, feels, and looks like in the realm of tourism.
Farms are a profitable outlet for travel because they offer a variety of recreational activities. Viren cited U-pick farms as a successful marketing strategy. They allow consumers to immerse themselves in agriculture environments such as pumpkin patches and corn mazes.
Viren presented Cashie River Treehouses in North Carolina as an additional agritourism attraction example.
A successful system of agritourism involves products and experiences that represent a region’s individuality, from exclusive produce to outdoor expeditions that you can’t find anywhere else.
For students looking for more in the world of agriculture, join the Agribusiness Club community on MyRaft.