On 07 May 2026, the Azerbaijan Tourism Board (ATB) and the Reserves Management Centre (RMC) conducted a “Local Guesthouse” training session in the Basgal settlement of the Ismayilli district, bringing together 13 local residents to strengthen community-based hospitality and rural accommodation standards.
The training aimed to equip local families and community members with the practical knowledge needed to operate guesthouses to a high professional standard, supporting Basgal’s development as a sustainable rural tourism destination. Participants were introduced to the core principles of guesthouse management, covering hospitality standards, accommodation preparation, hygiene and cleanliness requirements, guest communication, and strategies for ensuring visitor satisfaction.
A key theme throughout the session was the integration of Basgal’s unique cultural identity into the guest experience. Participants explored how traditional cuisine, local handicrafts, and the settlement’s distinctive village lifestyle can be woven into the visitor offer - creating authentic experiences that differentiate Basgal from other rural destinations and drive repeat visits and positive word-of-mouth.
The training also addressed the operational and commercial aspects of running a guesthouse, including room management, pricing strategies, and reservation systems. Participants received guidance on leveraging online booking platforms and social media channels to increase visibility and attract both domestic and international visitors. The session emphasised the role of strong guest review ratings as a long-term driver of business success and reputation.
Discussions on sustainable tourism practices and responsible hospitality management underlined the role that local guesthouses play in the broader socio-economic development of rural communities. The training forms part of ATB and RMC’s ongoing community capacity-building programme in Basgal, aimed at unlocking the settlement’s considerable tourism potential and creating tangible economic opportunities for local residents, in line with the Basgal Sustainable Tourism Strategy 2026-2028.
