Recentering Tourism Geographies in the ‘Asian Century’

This book explores the transition into the Asian Century and its implications for critical issues such as sustainable development, human rights, gender equality, and environmental change. It critiques Anglo-Western centrism in tourism theory and calls for more inclusive epistemology and praxis. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for resetting the tourism industry in sustainable, equitable, and ethical directions, and this book builds on the momentum of inclusive scholarship in Critical Tourism Studies-Asia Pacific.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 29 January 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The transition into the Asian Century brings with it a host of critical issues that require urgent attention worldwide. These issues include sustainable development, human rights, gender equality, and environmental change. This book serves as a powerful critique of Anglo-Western centrism in tourism theory, urging tourism scholars to embrace a more inclusive epistemology and praxis.

The history of tourism geographies is closely intertwined with the shifting geopolitical power dynamics from the British Century of the 1800s to the American Century of the 1900s and the contemporary Asian Century. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the significance of these shifts and the themes addressed in this volume have become more pressing than ever. The world is facing unprecedented turmoil, but amidst the chaos, there is a need for hope, compassion, and political-economic restructuring to reset the tourism industry in more sustainable, equitable, and ethical directions.

The pandemic has undoubtedly transformed the tourism industry as we know it. This book aims to build on the momentum of inclusive scholarship that Critical Tourism Studies-Asia Pacific is renowned for, while also encouraging readers to pause and reflect on the possibilities and challenges of tourism in a post-pandemic Asian Century.

The chapters in this book were originally published as a special issue of the journal, Tourism Geographies. Each chapter offers a unique perspective on the issues at hand, drawing from a range of disciplines and methodologies. The authors explore the complexities of tourism in Asia, examining its historical roots, cultural significance, and economic impact. They also address the challenges posed by globalization, climate change, and social inequality, highlighting the need for more inclusive and sustainable tourism practices.

One of the key themes of this book is the critique of Anglo-Western centrism in tourism theory. The authors argue that the dominant narrative of tourism has been shaped by Western perspectives and assumptions, which often overlook the diverse experiences and perspectives of non-Western cultures. They call on tourism scholars to make radical shifts toward more inclusive epistemology and praxis, recognizing the importance of diverse voices, cultures, and experiences in shaping tourism.

Another important theme is the role of tourism in promoting sustainable development. The authors emphasize the need for tourism to contribute to the well-being of local communities and the environment, rather than merely serving as a source of revenue. They suggest that tourism can be a powerful tool for promoting social and economic development, while also addressing issues such as poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation.

Gender equality is another critical issue that is explored in this book. The authors argue that tourism has the potential to promote gender equality, but often fails to do so due to patriarchal norms and stereotypes. They call on tourism practitioners and policymakers to promote gender-sensitive tourism practices, including the representation of diverse genders, the promotion of women's empowerment, and the prevention of gender-based violence.

Environmental change is another pressing issue that is addressed in this book. The authors argue that tourism has a significant impact on the environment, both positive and negative. They suggest that tourism can be a catalyst for environmental conservation and sustainability, but also contribute to environmental degradation and climate change. They call on tourism practitioners and policymakers to adopt sustainable tourism practices, including the reduction of carbon emissions, the promotion of eco-tourism, and the protection of natural resources.

In conclusion, the transition into the Asian Century presents a unique opportunity for the tourism industry to reset and transform itself in more sustainable, equitable, and ethical directions. This book serves as a valuable contribution to the field, offering a critical analysis of the issues at hand and calling on tourism scholars and practitioners to embrace a more inclusive and sustainable approach. By recognizing the diverse experiences and perspectives of non-Western cultures, promoting gender equality, and addressing environmental change, the tourism industry can contribute to the well-being of local communities and the planet as a whole.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 246 x 174 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032208299