Showing papers in "Tourism recreation research in 2005"

The Competitive Destination: a Sustainable Tourism Perspective

Abstract: As the title of this book identifies clearly, the authors combine the concepts of competitiveness and sustainability, which some may feel are difficult to reconcile, to provide guidance to enhance the management of tourism destinations. The contents of this book are not novel for it does not contain new insights on the topics that are covered or fresh case studies. However, it is innovative in that it introduces, within the same document, competitiveness and sustainability, embellishes these concepts and uses them to develop a conceptual framework. The explication of this framework is both the objective and content of the book. The focus is upon tourism destinations. The emphasis is on places with multiple attractions and accommodation establishments but the framework has applicability to countries and larger regions; states counties and smaller places; and there is also much of utility to the individual operator. The authors are devotees of Porter whose seminal works underpin their thinking, albeit with modifications to fit tourism.

Information Communication Technology Revolutionizing Tourism

Abstract: This paper identifies a number of key changes in Information Communication Technologies (ICT) that gradually revolutionize the tourism industry. E-tourism and the Internet in particular support the interactivity between tourism enterprises and consumers and as a result they re-engineer the entire process of developing, managing and marketing tourism products and destinations. All stakeholders related to tourism and hospitality, therefore, gradually see their role being changed and new opportunities and challenges emerging. The paper demonstrates that future of e-Tourism will be focused on consumer centric technologies to ensure that the new sophisticated and experienced consumers are served. Therefore, agile strategies are required at both strategic and tactical management levels to develop the ‘infostructure’ for tourism organizations to manage their internal functions, their relationships with partners and their interactions with all stakeholders including consumers. Only those organizations that appreciate the opportunities which ICTs bring and manage their resources successfully will be able to enhance their innovation and competitiveness in the future.

Getting ‘Entangled’: Reflexivity and the ‘Critical Turn’ in Tourism Studies

Abstract: Reflecting a broader postmodern shift to unmask the cultural politics of research and knowledge-making in academia, tourism studies as a field is demonstrating a notable ‘critical turn’—a shift in thought that serves to provide and legitimize a space for more interpretative and critical modes of tourism inquiry. In response to this critical turn, this paper addresses the central issue of ‘reflexivity’ which, while alive in other disciplines and fields, has received rather limited attention within tourism studies. By drawing on our own personal academic/research experiences working at the crossroads of this turn in thought, we identify a range of ‘entanglements’ that influence and constrain our research choices, textual strategies and ability to pursue reflexive knowledge. These entanglements centre around four broad, but interlinking, themes: ‘ideologies and legitimacies’; ‘research accountability’; ‘positionality’, and ‘intersectionality with the researched’. In writing this paper, we aim to uncloak the ...

New Tourism Research

Abstract: First, while there are four main approaches, the tourism studies that is developing in higher education tends to be crystallising around the business interdisciplinary approach ... Second, on account of the relative strength of the business of tourism, because of the increasing importance of [extradisciplinary] knowledge and because of the power of the performativity principle ... the business world of tourism is pushing out at the expense of other parts ...

Discourse Analysis in Tourism Research: A critical perspective

Abstract: Increasing numbers of researchers in the field of tourism studies are using discourse analysis as a means of critical investigation when faced with qualitative or textual forms of data, such as written documents, or visual materials such as photographs and brochures. Such data is often representative of how a group of people have made sense of and reflected on their own world and that of others. However, there are many different types of discourse analysis and many different ways in which discourse analysis has been deployed. This paper reviews the attempts of tourism scholars so far and argues that many researchers have utilized discourse analysis in an eclectic fashion. The paper thus differentiates between content analysis, simple textual analysis, semiotic analysis and post-structuralist forms of discourse analysis in order to provide a framework for other tourism researchers to use. In particular, it is argued that discourse analysis should proceed by recognizing that all texts are produced intertext...

Use of Automated Content Analysis Techniques for Event Image Assessment

Abstract: This department is devoted to research reports, notes, conference resumes and other significant research events. Two copies of write-ups, not exceeding 3,000 words, may be mailed to the Section Editor, Professor David A. Fennell, Brock University, St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada L2S 3A1; e-mail: dfennell@arnie.pec.brocku.ca. In all cases, one copy of the report should be mailed to the Chief Editor, TRR.

Mobilizing Tourism: A Post-disciplinary Critique

Abstract: Tourism has been the subject of considerable academic attention over the last three decades. Recently, there have been notable criticisms over the nature of tourism research and an alleged lack of theorization. Published exchanges have also focused on the contested disciplinary status of tourism. In this paper, we revisit these debates and consider them in light of increasing calls for post-disciplinary modes of investigation. In particular, we emphasize the need to understand tourism as just one form of human movement in a wider spectrum of mobilities. The consequences of pursuing a post-disciplinary approach are discussed. If studies of tourism are determined to reflect contemporary conditions, they should move away from traditional inter- and multi-disciplinary approaches to more flexible forms of knowledge production.

Peripheral tourism development: challenges, issues and success factors

Abstract: While tourism has been widely used as a tool for economic development in peripheral regions for many decades, it has been suggested that the actual practice of tourism development is not usually informed by the planning approaches proposed by academics. One of the reasons put forward for this gap between proposed planing systems and actual planning practice is that there has been a lack of inductive research into actual practice. The broad aim of the research reported in this paper was to use inductive approaches to better understand actual tourism development practices in peripheral regions. The research involved reviewing a sample of case studies of tourism development in peripheral regions and using the results of this review to build a conceptual scheme of the major factors and processes that occur in tourism development practice. The analysis of the 40 case studies revealed ten major themes. These themes were used to develop a preliminary conceptual scheme of peripheral region tourism development. This conceptual scheme was then used to offer suggested future directions for research into, and management of, peripheral region tourism development.

Destinations as Products? A Reflection on Butler's Life cycle

Abstract: This department has been specifically introduced to include findings of special significance and problem areas of subtle nuances in tourism research Insightful contributions presenting the state-of-the-art preferably from the developing societies will be appreciated It will also encourage scholars and authors to think against the grain, probing the consistency of theoretical notions and research trends whose heuristic value is all too often taken for granted For details contact Section Editor, Professor Julio Aramberri, Drexel University, Philadelphia, USA e-mail: jraramberri@hotmailcom

Time, space, tourism and social physics.

Abstract: This section has been specifically introduced to include findings of special significance and problem areas of subtle nuances in tourism research. Insightful contributions presenting the state-of-the-art preferably from the developing societies will be appreciated. It will also encourage scholars and authors to think against the grain, probing the consistency of theoretical notions and research trends whose heuristic value is all too often taken for granted. For details contact section editor, Professor Julio Aramberri, Drexel University, Philadelphia, USA. e-mail: jraramberri@hotmail.com

Mass and Urban Ecotourism: New Manifestations of an Old Concept

Abstract: Ecotourism emerged as a nature-based manifestation of alternative tourism, which is still regarded by some academics and practitioners as the most legitimate manifestation of this sector. While an analysis of the three core criteria of ecotourism points to the suitability of high order protected areas as ecotourism venues, modified spaces also have potential with regard to the latter, and may have distinct environmental advantages. Urban places, in particular, accommodate at least five types of ecotourism product, suggesting that urban ecotourism is a complex and high carrying capacity phenomenon that can be focused around the themes of restoration and enhancement, while diverting some visitation away from vulnerable natural areas. The idea of mass ecotourism also remains somewhat contentious in light of ecotourism's origins, yet like urban ecotourism is an increasingly recognized phenomenon that has the potential to produce positive environmental impacts because of its economies of scale and tendency to he confined into manageable restricted spaces. However, for these advantages to be realized, it is essential that mass ecotourism be implemented in conformance with a comprehensive model of ecotourism that emphasizes ecosystems-based attractions, transformational education, and sustainable management that enhances the environment at a global scale.

Recreation Ecology Research Effort: An International Comparison

Abstract: This section is devoted to research reports, notes, conference resumes and other significant research events. Two copies of write-ups, not exceeding 3,000 words, may be mailed to the Section Editor, Professor David A. Fennell, Brock University, St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada L2S 3A1; e-mail: dfennell@arnie.pec.brocku.ca. In all cases, one copy of the report should be mailed to the Chief Editor, TRR.

The beach of 'The Beach' - the politics of environmental damage in Thailand.

Abstract: Tourism-related environmental politics in Thailand are examined in a case study of the controversy surrounding the shooting of the film version of he Beach,' a hook on a backpacker commune on an undiscovered 'island paradise' by Alex Garland (1996). The article focuses on the paradox of the film-maker's insistconco to transform Maya beach, a spectacular pristine beach located in a national park on Phi Phi Lae island in Southern Thailand, to suit the stereotype of a 'tropical island beach' on Garland's imaginary island. The various stages of the protracled struggle between the opponents of the project, and the producers of the film and the authorities who permitted the changes to Maya beach are described The composition of the contending camps, their motives and interests are examined, as well as the discourses and counter-discourses by which they presontrd their case. The changing strategies of the opponents of the project, from protest, to appeals and finally lengthy litigation, leading from initial failures to eventual partial success, are detailed. The permanent damage to the teach, despite efforts to reostitute it after the filming, are assessed. The authorities policies after the event to 'regulate' tourism to the teach are noted. In conclusion, the manifold absurdities, of possibly wider significanet', invok L''d in the transformation of a 'real' pristine beach to suit an imaginary 'ideal' one are expounded.

Moving from Blue to Grey Tourism: Reinventing Malta

Abstract: Tourism destinations reinvent themselves for various reasons ranging from intrinsic characteristics of tourism demand, economic behaviour and attitudes towards environments and local communities. An idea currently popular among the managers of tourism facilities, heritage resources and local places is the shift from coastal resort ‘blue’ tourism to urban heritage ‘grey’ tourism. This article uses the case of Malta to examine the processes and instruments of such change, the constraints and issues associated with it and the possible scenarios.

High tech versus high touch: Visitor responses to the use of technology in tourist attractions

Abstract: There are a number of current debates in the academic and management literature about the benefits and costs of introducing technology into tourist experiences. The debate is an important one for those who manage tourist attractions when making decisions about which directions to take in the development of visitor experiences. A review of the relevant literature in tourism suggests that very little attention has been paid to tourists' perceptions of, and interest in, the use of technology to create and enhance their experiences. This study sought to address this gap by surveying visitors to an Australian aquarium and asking them about their support for the adoption of various forms of exhibits. The results indicated that tourists can be grouped according to their support for the use of technology in visitor experiences and their levels of use of technology in general. A general model of tourist technology adoption is proposed and explored and implications of the results are discussed both for tourist attraction management and for future research into this phenomenon.

Limitations of resident perception surveys for understanding tourism social impacts - the need for triangulation.

Abstract: Resident perceptions survey (RPS) approaches to social impact assessment (SIA) in tourism are currently in vogue, but little discussion has taken place over the validity of this approach to SIA. This paper contends that there are serious limitations involved in RPS approaches when employed as a stand-alone SIA method, which throw doubt on whether the results obtained from these surveys in fact indicate actual impacts from tourism at all. While it is not disputed that the RPS approach can be an important SIA tool, it is argued that RPS results if they are to be accepted as valid measures of social impacts - need to be supplemented by other research data, such as that obtained from visitor surveys, participant observation, in-depth interviews and, of particular focus in this paper, quantitative. social indicator research. An integrated approach is recommended that aims to determine whether the impacts indicated in RPS results derive from tourism development or are caused by external factors, including factors that may well be 'imaginary' in nature. Hence, a combined approach attempts to triangulate the causal variables underlying the perceived impacts. The importance of undertaking such triangulation is not only to further understanding of the effects of tourism development on host communities, but to ensure that the incorporation of resident attitudes into tourism planning is undertaken in an informed manner that will benefit all concerned.

Cyber-tourism and Social Capital: Ethics, Trust and Sociability

Abstract: Tourism has long been an information intensive activity. It is thus understandable that information and communication technology is being adapted to serve both the tourism industry and its customers, and that this has found expression in forms such as cybertourism. Cybertourism is essentially evolving as a response to factors such as the mercurial developments in information and communication technology, together with widespread environmental impact concerns emanating from domains such as nature-based tourism. This paper argues that, as tourism is essentially a social and relational activity, the contribution of cybertourism ought also be considered within the context of major theoretical dimensions such as social capital, ethics and trust. An understanding of cybertechnology in the light of notions such as social capital and social networks has thus far produced among commentators an array of perceived benefits and concerns that are sometimes in stark opposition to each other. Whilst some welcome the advent of cybertechnology, believing that it generally will be of remarkable benefit, others fear that it may eventually destroy the very mechanisms by which individuals in community derive social capital. A further group cautiously welcomes the application of this technology to domains such as cybertourism, yet warns of possible negative consequences occasioned either directly or indirectly by the technology. Ethical principles and mechanisms, adapted from various sources such as U.N. human rights codes, are proposed to address these challenges. Finally, a communitarian perspective has been advanced, including an elaboration of mechanisms whereby both bonding and bridging social networks associated with cybertourism may be modified and monitored for the benefit of all stakeholders.

The Effectiveness of Convention and Exhibition Websites: a Transatlantic Comparison and Future Scenario

Abstract: Meeting planners are now frequently using the Web as a resource for finding site information, while the Internet has also become increasingly important on the supply side of the convention and exhibition business as a marketing tool. Meeting planners are increasing their productivity by utilizing the Internet. However, the fast growth in the popularity of the Web has resulted in a fragmented approach to digital destination marketing, particularly in the convention and exhibition sector. The purpose of this study was to investigate the existing situation in digital destination marketing and identify the overall performance and effectiveness of convention and visitors bureau (CVB)/tourist board and convention/exhibition (CE) centre Websites based on the modified Balanced Scorecard (BSC) approach. Even though leading destinations, such as the US and the UK strategize through internet marketing applications, findings showed that the websites of CVB and CE of both these countries had relative strengths and wea...

Exploring the Economic Sustainability of the Small Tourism Enterprise: A Case Study of Tobago

Abstract: Within current di,cussions on sustainable tourism development, small tourism enterprises are often regarded as one of the vehicles through which positive economic benefits can be spread within destinations. I low-ever, omitted from these discussions is that many small tourism enterprises operate within a peripheral or developing country context which may often limit their ability to impact upon the larger economy and society. Against this background, this paper examines the extent to which small tourism enterprises in the island of Tobago contributes to economic sustainability. By employing indicators of sustainable tourism relevant to small tourism enterprises within a survey, the data shows that small tourism enterprises' contribution to economic sustainability varies between poor and moderate. Drawing on qualitative data also, it is suggested that inter alia the peripheral position of Tobago, and indeed small tourism enterprises within the twin-island republic as well as the larger global economy militates against these entities' potential to make a more significant economic contribution.

Tourism into the Future—Towards 2020, and Beyond

Abstract: In the future the global tourism industry is likely to be affected by five key factors: human, geopolitical, economic, technological and environmental. These factors are likely to compel managers t...

Space Tourism—A Future Dream or a Cyber-tourism Reality?

Abstract: Space is viewed by many as the next frontier and the next boundary to be crossed. This view, popularized in cinema and by science fiction writers, was recently reinforced by the successful suborbital flight of the privately owned SpaceShipOne. But is this view based on substance; will space become the new mass tourism experience of the 21st Century? In time this might be the case but as this paper argues the cost of travel is likely to be so high that nonphysical travel based on cyber experiences is a strong possibiclity. This paper uses scenarios as a method to investigate the possibility of both physical and cyber-travel into space in the future.

The Trans-textured Tourist: Literature as Knowledge in the Making of Tourists

Abstract: This paper examine. the ways in which those in literary societies learn to ho tourists through the t'isurel pradices of 'reading" createc writings and fictive texts. This cognitive act is a playful, inventive and an integral part of the normative process of socialization whereby humans are imbued with knowledge of cultural practices and values, together with social norms and expectations It is argued that from our readings of the many deep and central themes that run through fictional narratives we encounter the meanings of what it is to he a tourist. through the maoting of imaginations we learn of pervasive and eternal ideas that are woven into our literary culture and that are the essence of tourism: places and peoples that arc elsewhere; encounters with various forms of 'the other'; journeys, quests, pilgrimages and discoveries; notions of paradise; re'demplion and loss; a sense of belonging; the fleeting and the recollected. In the act of reading we construct imagined franieworks, which will later inform our actions and experiences.

Sport Tourism as a Means of Reconciliation? The Case of India—Pakistan Cricket

Abstract: Sport provides an opportunity for international contact both at the level of competitors and, in ranch larger nundorrs, of spectators. Where there has been a redrawing of political boundaries, often through tear or bloody partition, the peoples involved may find sports matches a medium for reconciliation and rcdefinitiun of personal allegiances. pacing reviewed the difficulties faced by the International Olympic Commit tee over the years and the strange anomalies that have arisen With divided countries, the article offers a systematic review of cross-border sport tourism in the case of cricket matches between India and Pakistan. I he lest series of early' 19.55 is used to illustrate the reaction, and reflections of spectators in a situation where there was the first mass cross-border contact lollowing a period of severe confrontation which fell just short of tear. The more recent Die )err Laa (Win I harts) hour of 2004 is then re iewed, including the political preparations which enabled it to take placo and the problematic nature of managing' this first sustained encounter for fourteen years. The article then considers whether such sporting contact between spectators can offer the potential to promote a longer-tern peace and its concomitant reconciliation process. With reference to frameworks of reconciliation theories, it concludes that While such contact may be o1 catalyst for inter-personal reconciliation, the overall level of reconciliation will be dependent on broader issues such as the nations' political will to achieve reconciliation.

Ethics, Economics and Tourism: Myanmar as a Case Study

Abstract: This department is devoted to research reports, notes, conference resumes and other significant research events. Two copies of write-ups, not exceeding 3,000 words, may be mailed to the Section Editor, Professor David A. Fennell, Brock University, St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada L2S 3A1: e-mail: dfennell@arnie.pec.brocku.ca. In all cases, one copy of the report should be mailed to the Chief Editor, TRR.

Cyber-tourism: A New Form of Tourism Experience

Abstract: (2005). Cyber-tourism: A New Form of Tourism Experience. Tourism Recreation Research: Vol. 30, No. 3, pp. 5-6.