CHAPTER 2 & 3 SOCIOLOGY OF TOURISM

The Sociology of Tourism

Objectives

• Explain the socio effect of tourism.

• Discuss the sociology of tourism.

• Identify the socioeconomic variables that affect travel.

• Describe the types of tourism roles.

• Examine the effects of culture on travel.

Sociology of Tourism

• Definition

  • Focuses on the relationships between different types of tourists.

  • Studies the structure, function, and consequences of the tourist system.

Social Nature of Travel

• Human Behavior

  • Travel stems from the social nature of human beings.

  • Tour groups provide comfort and enjoyment, reducing anxiety.

  • Camaraderie can lead to lasting friendships from group trips.

The Social Effects of Tourism

- Tourism is concerned with the movement of and contact between people in different geographical locations.

- Social relations between people who would not normally meet.

- The confrontation of different cultures ethnic groups, lifestyles languages, levels of prosperity and the like

- The behavior of people released from many of the social and economic constraints of everyday life and;

- The behavior of the host population which has to reconcile economic gain and benefits with the costs of living with strangers.

Socioeconomic Variables Affecting Travel

• Key Variables

  • Age

  • Income and Social Status

  • Education Level

  • Life Stages within the Family

Rise of New Travel Patterns

A. Travel Clubs

• Members enjoy travel opportunities and vacation facilities at reduced prices compared to non-members.

B. Airline Group Arrangements

• Various tour fares promoted by airlines specific for groups.

C. Special Interest Tours

• Tours designed for individuals with specific interests or activities.

Preferences of the International Tourist

A. Relaxation Versus Activity

• Travelers seek either complete relaxation or constant activity during trips.

B. Familiarity Versus Novelty

• Preference for traveling close to home versus exploring completely new environments.

C. Dependence Versus Autonomy

• Ranges from total dependence on group travel to independent exploration.

D. Order Versus Disorder

• Historical shift from tourists valuing conformity to a present focus on personal choice and individuality.

Types of Tourist Roles

• Institutionalized Tourist Roles

  • A. The Organized Mass Tourist

    • Least adventurous; prefers familiar environments.

  • B. The Individual Mass Tourist

    • Similar to organized but enjoys more control over their schedule.

• Non-Institutionalized Tourist Roles

  • C. Explorer

    • Self-arranged trips to unusual destinations.

  • D. Drifter

    • Adventurous individuals with no fixed itinerary; seek faraway experiences.

Social Tourism

• Definition

  • Subsidized travel systems (by government, employers, or unions) for social objectives.

Tourism and Culture

Cultural Tourism Definition

• A specific tourism subset focusing on the cultural aspects of regions, including lifestyle, history, art, and religion.

Host Community Factors

• Local residents

• Community’s economic system

• Infrastracture and basic government services

• natural resources

Culture Defined

• A society's collective beliefs, values, attitudes, habits, and behaviors transmitted through generations.

Effects of Culture on Travel

• Understanding host culture is vital to avoid culture shock and enhance tourist experience.

• Cultural patterns can change due to internal and external influences, e.g., American tourists in the Philippines may struggle with cultural differences such as time concept.

Importance of Cultural Tourism

• Facilitates cultural exchange and international cooperation.

Cultural Factors Appealing to Tourists

• Arts

  • Performing arts and fine arts enrich the tourist experience.

• Ethnic Music and Dance

  • Integral to local culture and tourist entertainment.

• Handicrafts

  • Showcase local traditions and can be attractive tourism products.

• Industry and Business

  • Tourist interest in local industries expands cultural understanding.

• Agriculture

  • Often draws tourists interested in local practices.

• Education

  • Academic institutions may attract visitors.

• Literature and Language

  • Literary works reflect local culture and heritage, piquing tourist interest.

• Science

  • Scientific endeavors can appeal to tourists, highlighting technological advancements or research.

• Government

  • Political systems and local governance may intrigue visitors.

• Religion

  • Pilgrimages can motivate travel, exploring spiritual heritage.

• Food and Drink

  • Local cuisine often a primary attraction for tourists.

• History

  • Historical sites reveal a region's cultural narrative.

Summary

• Understanding culture is essential for enhancing travel experiences and fostering positive visitor-host interactions.

• Cultural tourism promotes engaging with diverse lifestyles and facilitates cultural learning.

Conclusion

• Cultural factors offer significant tourist appeal: arts, traditions, food, and history enhance travel experiences.