'Home Harz: Fewer and fewer tourists and residents | Documentary | NDR Story'

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In the context of the NDR report 'Homeland Harz: Fewer and Fewer Tourists and Residents', viewers gain insight into the development of the once thriving mountain town of Sankt Andreasberg in the Harz region. The documentary highlights how the region has changed over the past few decades and is facing significant challenges.

Nostalgic melodies from Dire Straits and Phil Collins accompany viewers on a journey into the past, when the Harz was still a booming tourist destination. However, the once lively town of Sankt Andreasberg has lost a large portion of its residents, with tourists preferring other destinations.

The local mayor, Karl-Heinz Plosteiner, guides the visitor through the streets of the town, which are marked by abandoned shops, unused plots of land, and deserted buildings. Despite the city's efforts to renovate facades, many areas remain neglected and are deteriorating.

A visit to the local pub 'Bierchen Bierchen' reveals that the younger generation sees little incentive to settle in Sankt Andreasberg. The lack of leisure activities and dwindling social life make it unattractive for many to stay in the town.

Even the once popular winter tourism is suffering from declining snowfall, impacting ski lifts and winter activities. Operators like Karsten Otto are therefore focusing on alternative offerings such as mountain biking to attract new guest groups.

The documentary illustrates the difficulties that the Harz region faces as a tourism destination. Despite its historical landmarks and natural beauty, the region struggles with the perception of being outdated and losing touch with modern travel trends.

The report concludes with a visit to the Panoramic Hotel, a relic from the 1970s that is now set to be renovated to bring the Harz into modern times. Hotel director Matthias Mahn explains efforts to update the building to meet today's standards and provide guests with a contemporary experience.

Overall, the documentary 'Homeland Harz: Fewer and Fewer Tourists and Residents' showcases the challenges as well as the opportunities that the region must address in order to maintain its appeal as a travel destination and adapt to the changing needs of visitors

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