This interview forms part of a series of interviews with stakeholders under MEDUSA project to shed the light on the adventure tourism in our partner territories in Jordan, Lebanon, Tunisia, Puglia (Italy) and Catalonia (Spain).

Enjoy reading.

Giulia Lippolis is a young biologist, snorkelling guide, and a nature hiking guide. She has been collaborating with PugliaTrekking Escursionismo as a nature guide, providing environmental education on flora and fauna, as well as marine biology. 

Antonella Ivone is a young photographer specialized in analogue photography and old printing darkroom techniques who works on cultural events and performances. She has been collaborating with PugliaTrekking Escursionismo as a nature photographer, documenting the Apulian territories and its beauty. 

PugliaTrekking Escursionismo is a novel tourism concept that brings together local talents, resources and knowledge about Puglia through exclusive excursions: slowalking, discovery, experience, snorkelling, trekking and speleo trekking.

How is adventure tourism integrated into the current tourist offer of Puglia?

One among a wide array of touristic activities offered in the Apulian territory, adventure tourism is establishing itself by taking over more and more space through a variety of exclusive activities and experiences that reflect the beauty of unique and inspiring ecosystems.

What are Puglia’s strengths as an adventure tourism destination?

Puglia is a treasure chest of biodiversity that offers a very diverse landscape: from gravines to the lame (karst canyons), from caves to rupestrian settlements dating back to the medieval period, from underground oil mills to high cliffs overlooking the sea. These well-preserved and organic natural beauty mean Puglia has extraordinary potential for becoming a hub for adventure tourism.

How has Covid-19 affected adventure tourism?

The pandemic has negatively affected adventure tourism, creating barriers and gaps stemming from fears and apprehensions of the virus. All this is a hindrance despite people's primary need to experience nature and enjoy the moments they share together.

What are the challenges of adventure tourism in Puglia?

We aim to apply this tourism formula on several levels, in order to expand the offer to several national and foreign channels, as well as making our territory familiar to people around the world.

How do you see the future of this type of offer in Puglia?

We are confident that this kind of tourism will continue to boom in Puglia. It feels like we are on an accelerating train with many carriages, full of emotion, adventures, culture, history and nature. Are you ready to get on board?