A recap of our Certified Interpretive Writer (CIW) course in Germany.
The Tourism Association of Vorpommern is working to develop our region as a place where people can experience nature deeply and responsibly. High‑quality visitor experience is a key part of this vision. In June, we had the opportunity to host an Interpret Europe Certified Interpretive Writer (CIW) course in the Hanseatic city of Greifswald – five intense days fully dedicated to interpretive writing.
Nine participants from different professional backgrounds – guiding, nature conservation and tourism – came together with one shared goal: to create visitor texts that truly touch people and make them think. Under the guidance of our IE trainer, the course offered a well‑balanced mix of theory, reflection and hands‑on practice.
A central element was the development of an individual interpretive panel. Instead of simply informing, these panels are designed to speak directly to the reader. They invite emotional engagement and offer the reader new perspectives on a place, an object or a landscape. Step by step, participants transformed initial ideas into concise texts with a clear theme, meaningful links to the site and tangible relevance for visitors.
Greifswald provided the ideal open‑air classroom. After short inputs inside, we moved outside whenever possible – to the cathedral, the market square, the harbour, and the riuns of Eldena Abbey. Concepts were tested immediately on real locations, re‑worked, and then transferred back into the design of the panels. By the end of the week, we were all impressed by how diverse and creative the final results were, even though everyone had followed the same structured method.
Despite the intensive programme, there was plenty of time for exchange and networking.
Discussions continued over coffee and during short walks through town; experiences from different regions and institutions were shared generously. This collegial atmosphere was one of the course’s great strengths and will, we are sure, continue in future cooperation.
For us as a Tourism Association, the CIW course is more than a training opportunity. It is part of a broader effort to professionalise our Nature Guide offers within the project ‘Gemeinsam Mee(h)r Natur in Vorpommern wagen‘ (Daring more nature together in Vorpommern), also known as Lebenslandschaft Vorpommern. By investing in interpretive writing skills, we want to ensure that new trails, guided tours and visitor infrastructure in our region do not just show beautiful places, but also help residents and guests understand why these landscapes matter – for biodiversity, for local livelihoods and for a sustainable future.
We warmly thank all participants for their openness and commitment, and we wish them every success as they apply their new skills in daily practice. Our sincere thanks also go to Interpret Europe for the professional facilitation and inspiring guidance throughout the week.
Annika Lenz works as project manager at the Tourism Association of Vorpommern, where she brings three years‘ experience to the role. Her main interest is in sustainable tourism. Annika can be contacted at: lenz@vorpommern.de.
