Triestespresso and the Professional Development of Hoteliers: A Perfect Blend of Education and Networking with Industry Experts

The goal of the trip was to provide professional development for hotel representatives from Serbia, giving them the opportunity to gain insight into the latest trends in the HORECA industry through expert workshops and participation in one of the world’s leading coffee trade fairs. Among the distinguished participants were representatives of Mona Plaza, Courtyard Belgrade City Center, Crowne Plaza, Hotel Sunce Sokobanja, Hotel Zlatibor, Grand Kopaonik, Radisson Collection Hotel and Hotel Fontana.

Our first day in Portorož began with a visit to the family-owned Gramona Farm, renowned for its premium olive oil production. Our hosts introduced us to the olive cultivation process and the art of oil production, and through a guided tasting we enjoyed a selection of authentic, homemade specialties. Following an insightful workshop and a delightful lunch, we continued to Remisens Hotel Metropol, where we were accommodated. The remainder of the day was dedicated to sharing impressions, unwinding, and enjoying the hotel’s rich amenities, including its spa and wellness center.

The following day, we headed to Izola, where, together with representatives of Barcaffè Espresso, we toured the coffee production facilities and explored every step in the creation of a premium espresso. Beyond the facility visit, we were given the exclusive opportunity to taste coffee made from rare and less commonly used varieties, guided by top industry experts. The experience was elevated further by an elegant presentation in carefully selected tableware, perfectly suited to contemporary trends and modern hospitality settings.

We then continued to Trieste, where we visited the prestigious Triestespresso Expo. Through guided tours and expert-led workshops, we had the opportunity to explore the latest trends and innovations shaping the coffee industry. The fair provided an inspiring platform to exchange insights with leading professionals and discover premium products that are defining the future of this dynamic sector.

After the fair, we visited Caffè San Marco, one of the oldest and most renowned establishments in Trieste, where exceptional coffee is still served today. Our hosts treated us to an engaging presentation on the history of espresso, its deep-rooted significance in Italian culture, and the art of crafting the perfect cup.

The rest of the day was dedicated to exploring the landmarks of Trieste, immersing ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere of this captivating city. We concluded the evening with an elegant dinner at Kamin Restaurant, a true gem of the Belvedere Resort. From its terrace, we enjoyed a spectacular view overlooking Izola and the Gulf of Trieste, creating the perfect finale to an inspiring and memorable day.

On the final day of our stay, we visited the Piranske Soline, where we learned about the traditional methods of salt production and the rich history of this precious seasoning. After the tour, we left the coast behind and continued our journey toward the more continental region of Slovenia.

Our final destination before returning to Belgrade was Restaurant Na Burji, where we took part in an engaging workshop dedicated to preparing homemade fuži, the traditional Istrian pasta. After trying our hand at crafting this regional specialty, we enjoyed an authentic continental lunch that beautifully reflected the richness and diversity of the local gastronomy.

Trips like this represent an innovative approach to the professional development of hospitality experts, allowing them to gain valuable experience and learn about the latest trends firsthand through informal networking—right at the places where innovation is happening.