The Role of Visual Communication Design in Promoting Europe's Ecotourism Destinations

Abstract

Ecotourism Destinations Ecotourism is a type of tourism that contributes to the protection of natural areas, increases the economic well-being of local people and promotes environmental awareness. Europe has a significant potential for ecotourism with its rich biodiversity and unique natural beauties. In this context, the promotion of Europe's ecotourism destinations is of great importance both nationally and internationally. Visual communication design stands out as an effective tool in the promotion of ecotourism destinations. Visual communication elements used correctly attract the attention of potential tourists and encourage them to participate in ecotourism activities. The strategic use of visual communication design in the promotion of Europe's ecotourism destinations makes significant contributions to the sustainable development of the tourism sector. The analyses in this study emphasize the critical role of visual communication design in the promotion of ecotourism and offer suggestions for future promotion strategies. In this study, the short film "A Sustainable Journey" and promotional materials prepared by Central Europe Eco-Tourism (CEETO) were examined through semiotics. As a result of the study, it is seen that the video touches on the subjects of ecotourism and sustainable hosting by including images of nature and natural structures, and also emphasizes concepts such as sustainable food, local community, local food, local heritage, relationship with nature, etc. It was observed that written information was predominant in infographics and no visuals were used other than icons. It is noteworthy that the use of natural colors such as green, blue, and gray and yellow were preferred in brochures, posters and infographics. The brochure was designed in different languages in order to achieve international expression.