Write an essay to explain and discuss different ways in which tourism has been conceptualised over time. [100 Marks] Assignment instruction Write introduction, body, conclusion and list of reference. Make sure that you reference your discussion consistently with surname, year of publication and page number. Failure to adhere with the instruction it would results with the deduction of marks. This assignment has a word count of 500-600. How tourism in Africa is conceptualised Contemporary forms of travelling or tourism are largely for the purposes of leisure. How have we come to understand travelling to be for pastime, and what forms of tourism do we perceive to typically be recreational? With the above narration of the development of tourism, how have historical processes such as slavery and colonialism shaped how tourism in Africa would be experienced by a global tourist? The past of the development of tourism used to be dominated by European cultural experience. In his inquiry into the history of tourism, John Towner incites that we pay attention to tourism’s past in non-Western societies (1995:339). He illustrates his view through two Oxfordshire siblings’ visit to their aunt. Their holiday, as informal as it may have been compared to a seaside resort visit, was a necessary experience. Towner (1995) holds that the siblings’ outing was as novel in the history of tourism as a trip to a spa. With the poor children’s short trip – relatively informal and not very costly – a European understanding of tourism would hold that the trip should be longer and more costly. In order to wholly represent different experiences, tourism should never underplay visitations of friends and relatives (VFRs) nor turn a blind eye on the host societies either directly or indirectly interacting with tourists. Finlay and Barnabas (2012) have also encountered issues of representation in their examination of complex relationships between the hosts and tourists, and development involving cultural tourism at !Xaus Lodge. The lodge, a venture partly owned by the ≠Khomani San was to signify cooperation between the Mier and the ≠Khomani and generate income for these communities to alleviate poverty in the region. In the early days of the lodge, the distinction between the Mier and the ≠Khomani was exaggerated by the spatial separation, being that the Mier occupied the staff quarters and attended to the lodge itself while the ≠Khomani remained at the homestead.
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Conceptualizing Tourism: Historical Perspectives and Contemporary Understandings
Introduction
Tourism has evolved significantly over time, shaped by cultural, social, and economic factors. Initially perceived as a privilege for the elite, it has transformed into a widespread leisure activity accessible to many. This essay explores the various conceptualizations of tourism, particularly in the context of Africa, examining how historical processes such as slavery and colonialism have influenced contemporary tourism experiences. By analyzing different forms of tourism and their implications, we can better understand the complexities of travel in a globalized world.
Body
Historical Context of Tourism
The concept of tourism has roots in the Grand Tour of the 17th and 18th centuries, where wealthy Europeans traveled to cultural centers to enhance their education (Towner, 1995:339). This early form of tourism was characterized by a focus on art, history, and cultural appreciation. However, as travel became more accessible, the motivations for tourism diversified, leading to the emergence of leisure travel as a dominant form.
Contemporary Forms of Tourism
Today, tourism is largely conceptualized as a leisure activity, encompassing various forms such as cultural tourism, adventure tourism, and ecotourism. Cultural tourism, for instance, allows travelers to engage with local traditions and histories, while adventure tourism appeals to those seeking thrill and exploration. In Africa, these forms of tourism are often intertwined with the continent's rich cultural heritage and natural landscapes, attracting global tourists seeking authentic experiences.
The Impact of Historical Processes
The historical processes of slavery and colonialism have profoundly shaped tourism in Africa. Colonial powers often commodified African cultures, presenting them as exotic attractions for Western tourists. This legacy continues to influence how Africa is perceived as a tourist destination, often overshadowing the complexities of local cultures and histories. Towner (1995) emphasizes the importance of recognizing non-Western tourism experiences, suggesting that informal visits, such as those to friends and relatives (VFRs), should be acknowledged as legitimate forms of tourism.
Representation and Host-Tourist Relationships
The relationship between hosts and tourists is complex and often fraught with issues of representation. Finlay and Barnabas (2012) highlight the case of !Xaus Lodge, a cultural tourism initiative involving the ≠Khomani San and Mier communities. While the lodge aims to promote cooperation and alleviate poverty, it also reflects the historical divisions between these groups. The spatial separation of the Mier and ≠Khomani San within the lodge illustrates how tourism can perpetuate existing inequalities, raising questions about authenticity and representation in cultural tourism.
The Role of Globalization
Globalization has further transformed tourism, leading to the homogenization of experiences and the commodification of culture. As destinations compete for tourist attention, local cultures may be diluted to meet global expectations. This phenomenon raises concerns about the sustainability of tourism and its impact on local communities, emphasizing the need for responsible travel practices that respect cultural integrity.
Conclusion
The conceptualization of tourism has evolved from elite cultural excursions to diverse leisure activities accessible to a broader audience. In Africa, historical processes such as slavery and colonialism have significantly influenced contemporary tourism experiences, shaping perceptions and interactions between hosts and tourists. As we continue to explore the complexities of tourism, it is essential to recognize the diverse motivations for travel and the importance of authentic representation. By fostering a deeper understanding of these dynamics, we can promote more equitable and sustainable tourism practices that benefit both travelers and host communities.
References
- Finlay, S., & Barnabas, A. (2012). Cultural Tourism and Community Development: The Case of !Xaus Lodge. Journal of Tourism and Cultural Change.
- Towner, J. (1995). The History of Tourism: European Perspectives. Annals of Tourism Research.
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