Tourism Places in Asia: Destinations, Stakeholders and Consumption

Asia has been the most dynamic region for tourism development in recent decades, driven by the growth of outbound and domestic travel and tourism among mainland Chinese. Tourism research has also grown significantly, focusing on developing the Asian economies and moving them from their 'developing world status. Tourism Places in Asia: Destinations, Stakeholders, and Consumption highlights the progress of tourism scholarship in Asia in other areas, especially in the way places are impacted by tourists and the tourism industry.

Format: Hardback
Length: 194 pages
Publication date: 28 May 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Asia has emerged as a vibrant and dynamic region for tourism development in recent decades, attracting a significant influx of both outbound and domestic travelers. This remarkable growth is driven by the remarkable economic prosperity experienced by countries like China since the 1970s, as well as the innate human desire to explore and discover the world. As a result, tourism research in Asia has experienced a substantial surge, with scholars dedicated to understanding the intricacies of this phenomenon and its impact on various destinations.

One of the primary areas of focus in tourism research in Asia is the Chinese realm, encompassing mainland China and Taiwan. The Chinese market has been particularly explosive in recent years, driven by the country's expanding middle class and rising disposable income. With a population of over 1.4 billion, China represents a vast and diverse market for tourism, with a wide range of attractions and experiences to offer. From the ancient wonders of the Great Wall and the Forbidden City to the modern marvels of Shanghai and Beijing, China has something for every traveler.

In addition to China, other East Asian countries have also experienced significant growth in tourism. Japan, South Korea, and Thailand, among others, have all invested heavily in infrastructure and marketing to attract tourists from around the world. These countries offer a rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and a vibrant nightlife, making them popular destinations for both leisure and business travelers.

Furthermore, tourism research in Asia has expanded beyond the Chinese realm to encompass other regions within the continent. Scholars have explored the impacts of tourism on local communities, economies, and environments, as well as the ways in which tourism can contribute to sustainable development. For example, studies have shown that tourism can provide employment opportunities for local residents, promote cultural exchange and understanding, and protect natural resources and heritage sites.

In recent years, tourism scholarship in Asia has also made significant strides in other areas, particularly in the way places are impacted by tourists and the tourism industry. The chapters in this book, originally published as a special issue of the journal Tourism Geographies, highlight the progress of tourism scholarship in Asia in these areas. The book explores the various stakeholders involved in tourism, including tourists, tourism operators, local communities, and governments, and examines the ways in which they interact and influence each other.

One of the key themes of the book is the impact of tourism on destinations. The chapters discuss the ways in which tourism can both positively and negatively impact destinations, including the effects on local culture, heritage, and the environment. For example, tourism can contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage sites, but it can also lead to the commodification and commercialization of local culture, which can have negative consequences for the sustainability of tourism.

Another important theme of the book is the role of tourism in promoting sustainable development. The chapters explore the ways in which tourism can contribute to sustainable development, including the use of sustainable tourism practices, the promotion of eco-friendly tourism, and the empowerment of local communities. For example, sustainable tourism practices can reduce the negative impact of tourism on the environment, while promoting eco-friendly tourism can help to conserve natural resources and promote biodiversity.

In conclusion, tourism has emerged as a powerful force in Asia, transforming the way people experience and interact with the region. Tourism research in Asia has grown significantly in recent years, with a primary focus on the Chinese realm and other East Asian countries. The growth of tourism in Asia has been driven by the remarkable economic prosperity experienced by countries like China, as well as the innate human desire to explore and discover the world. Tourism research in Asia has expanded beyond the Chinese realm to encompass other regions within the continent, exploring the impacts of tourism on local communities, economies, and environments. The chapters in this book highlight the progress of tourism scholarship in Asia in other areas, particularly in the way places are impacted by tourists and the tourism industry. By understanding the complexities of tourism and its impact on various destinations, scholars can contribute to the sustainable development of tourism in Asia and ensure that it continues to be a positive force for the region.

Weight: 535g
Dimension: 246 x 174 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367748227