Tourism development - Essay Example

In fact, there are many unique and new developments in tourism. This paper will examine three types of tourism developments that have changed in recent years. The first item we will examine is the rise of ‘green’ or eco-tourism. Next, we will examine World Heritage Site tourism, which is a branch of more traditional style historic destination travel. Finally, we will look at ‘pro-poor’ tourism, or travel set up to benefit local impoverished economies. In addition to examining these three types of tourism, we will see the advantages of each and the overall benefits of each as compared to more traditional tourism.

The first area of change in regards development approaches to tourism is with green or eco-tourism. Uddhammar (2006, p. 659) defines eco-tourism as tourism that: (1) contributes actively to the conservation of natural and cultural heritage; (2) includes the local communities in it’s planning, development, operation, and well-being; (3) interprets the natural heritage of the destination to visitors; and (4) lends itself best to independent travelers or small size organized groups. (Uddhammar,2006, p.659). Eco-tourism would encompass more than random nature tourism.

Mergg (2007, p. 3) gives key elements that would distinguish eco-tourism, such as minimizing the impact of various infrastructures. This includes limiting hotels and other buildings by using local materials that are safe, recyclable, and sensitive in design to the ecosystem. Also, Mergg emphasizes how education is a substantial part of the eco experience. Before the trip, the tourists should have read educational materials on the area and be trained on how to minimize their impact to the environment.

A code of conduct should be in place along with well trained guides to make sure the vacation goes as intended. Finally, before the trip occurs, partial revenue streams involved such as plane fare would help benefit the area. Mergg goes on to