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Authors:Usha Seshadri, Pranav Kumar, Anu Vij, Tabani Ndlovu Abstract: This paper reviews the challenging trends in the tourism sector of the UAE brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic. In so doing, it highlights a radical shift in the consumption of travel products and the related marketing strategies that tourism enterprises could adopt. The study aims to discern the ramifications of the Covid-19 pandemic for the tourism sector of the UAE by conducting a thematic review of the contextual literature. It highlights how tourism businesses can employ transformative strategies to revive the sector. The outcomes reveal that tourism businesses are finding it difficult to respond to the needs of customers in settings where physical distance is a reality. Given this, the study reveals the importance of digital technology in building a relationship between the supplier and the customer. Businesses can leverage virtual reality to provide enriching experiences to prospective customers and in so doing, influence their tourism product choices. Further, there is a need to co-create values wherein the final tourism product is beneficial to both the supplier in terms of profit margin and within the scope of the customer's willingness to pay. This review highlights that there are both demand and supply-side shocks in delivering tourism products in the post Covid-19 era. It also considers the key socio-economic factors that need to be accounted for when designing tourism products. Citation: Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes PubDate: 2023-01-04 DOI: 10.1108/WHATT-10-2022-0120 Issue No:Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2023)
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Authors:Richard E. Teare Abstract: Themed editorial: How could rural tourism provide better support for wellbeing and socio-economic development' Citation: Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes PubDate: 2023-01-31 DOI: 10.1108/WHATT-02-2023-172 Issue No:Vol. 15, No. 1 (2023)
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Authors:Richard E. Teare Abstract: Reflections on the theme issue outcomes: How could rural tourism provide better support for well-being and socio-economic development' Citation: Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes PubDate: 2023-01-31 DOI: 10.1108/WHATT-02-2023-173 Issue No:Vol. 15, No. 1 (2023)
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Authors:Mohammad Abul Kashem, Mohammad Shamsuddoha, Tasnuba Nasir, Asma Akter Chowdhury Abstract: This paper reviews the role of two significant smart technologies, artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain technology (BT) in achieving sustainable tourism success. Such changes will maintain consistent tourism growth in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region by improving environmental, social and economic sustainability. This study uses a qualitative approach focusing on AI and blockchain-based adaptations towards sustainability in technology-driven platforms, particularly in the tourism sector. However, this study is conceptualized with Day's (1989) IMRAD (introduction, methods, results and discussion) framework and Hall's (2012) suggestions. This reinforced the structure of this article by the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) concept. In addition, the entire study proceeds by way of accentuating the research question. The potential of these technologies (AI and blockchain) can internalize a win-win situation for economic prosperity and sustainable conservation of environmental resources. Even though, apathy among potential tourists (of traditional mass tourism) can be revived under sustainable tourism in the region through smart technology. Replacing traditional practices and policies with innovative technologies can reduce the adverse effect on environmental and cultural resources. This research justifies the potential for AI and blockchain to balance economy-oriented tourism and sustainability-prone technologically advanced tourism as a caustic issue for the MENA region. Indeed, this study has revitalized and transformed the less eventful margins of leading cultural-heritage-based tourism into sustainable profitability with concerns over diversity, socio-economic conditions, economic recession and burgeoning geopolitical instability. Citation: Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes PubDate: 2022-12-19 DOI: 10.1108/WHATT-10-2022-0116 Issue No:Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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Authors:Ashraf A. Mahate, Sanjai K. Parahoo Abstract: This study aims to examine the commonalities and contrasts in the tourism objectives and strategies of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, thereby revealing the foundations and pillars underlying the strategic initiatives implemented. This exploratory study applied the resource-based view (RBV) lens to the country level. A comparative analysis of the tourism strategy in each GCC country was undertaken to determine commonalities and contrasts between the different strategies and to classify them into clusters. In the next stage, in-depth interviews were carried out to validate the findings. Four distinct clusters were identified in this paper: lifestyle glamor, emerging giant, sports-induced country branding and eco-friendly regional-based strategies. The findings and cluster classification are pertinent to policymakers and industry marketers in crafting tourism development plans. This study analyzed the economic diversification strategies adopted by GCC countries as new entrants in the tourism sector and classified them into four clusters. Citation: Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes PubDate: 2022-12-13 DOI: 10.1108/WHATT-10-2022-0118 Issue No:Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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Authors:Ahmad A. Okasha, Farooq Haq, Anita Medhekar, Naveed Yasin Abstract: This paper explores medical tourism development challenges in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) pre- and during Covid-19. Medical tourism is becoming a dynamic, rapid growth area and an engine of economic development. In-depth interviews were conducted with medical tourism professionals. Fourteen medical tourism stakeholders were interviewed from 1 January to 31 January 2020. Qualitative thematic analysis was applied on medical tourism challenges before and during the pandemic. The major themes indicated concerns for medical tourism in the UAE and they included higher medical services costs and a shortage of highly qualified medical expertise. The emerging themes related to the challenges of coping with Covid-19 and strategies to attract medical tourists. This study contributes towards (1) the theory of medical tourism, (2) the related limited prior published work on this topic relating to the UAE and (3) the importance of medical tourism in today’s tourism industry. Additionally, there are theoretical and practical implications for medical tourism stakeholders in terms of attracting inbound medical tourists to the UAE from other countries during the Covid-19 crisis and in the post-pandemic situation. Citation: Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes PubDate: 2022-12-06 DOI: 10.1108/WHATT-10-2022-0119 Issue No:Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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Authors:Ahmad Anouti, Samantha Chaperon, James Kennell Abstract: This article explores the ways in which the relationship between tourism, sustainable development and peace in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) is presented in national tourism policies, with a focus on United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG)16: peace justice and strong institutions. Leximancer 5.0 software is used to analyze national tourism policy documents. Themes and concepts from the documents are presented visually in a concept map, and further qualitative analysis is carried out on the theme of sustainability to generate insights. The relationship between tourism and peace is not well developed in tourism policies in the MENA region. This is a missed opportunity to use the engine of tourism development to promote regional sustainable development, but increased engagement with nongovernmental organization (NGOs) and communities by tourism policy-makers can help to address this. This article links SDG 16 to tourism policy and provides insights into how this relationship could be developed in a region experiencing recurrent crises and high levels of tourism growth. Citation: Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes PubDate: 2022-12-05 DOI: 10.1108/WHATT-10-2022-0115 Issue No:Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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Authors:Mohamed Abou-Shouk, Nagoua Zoair, Ahmed Mohamed Elbaz, Marwa Abdel-Jalil Abstract: Destination competitiveness is a significant contributor to tourism growth, performance and development. The current research intends to test the effect of the dimensions of the Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Index (TTCI) on destination competitiveness in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Egypt and Oman and how competitiveness influences tourism performance and development. The perspectives of 460 responses were collected from the UAE, 457 from Egypt and 301 responses from Oman. Partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) was utilised to measure the research model relationships. The results showed that the competitiveness index components are significantly contributing to destination competitiveness and that this competitiveness is predicting both tourism performance and development. This study developed and empirically tested the effect of an integrative model of the competitiveness index on destination competitiveness from the perspective of local visitors in three Muslim and Arab nations. This study gives scholars valuable perceptions into how socio-cultural variations between residents and locals in various nations might result in significantly diverse behaviours. Citation: Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes PubDate: 2022-12-01 DOI: 10.1108/WHATT-10-2022-0117 Issue No:Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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Authors:Vinaytosh Mishra, Sudhir Rana Abstract: The purpose of the study is to identify the important barriers to the development of medical tourism in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Further, it aims to establish a relationship among these barriers and propose a framework to overcome them. The study uses a narrative review of the literature to identify barriers to medical tourism development (MDT) in the UAE. Using a graph theory-based Total Interpretive Structural Modelling (TISM) approach to explaining the hierarchy of the identified barriers and interpret the relationship links. The study further uses Cross-impact matrix multiplication applied to classification (MICMAC) analysis to validate the finding of the study and derive conclusions. The study identifies barriers related to MDT as (1) Policies and Regulations (2) Government support (3) Healthcare costs (4) Healthcare Capacity (5) Healthcare Quality (6) Medical Insurance (7) Facilitator and Marketing (8) International Relations (9) Ease of Travel, and (10) Religion, Culture, and Language. The study concludes that Healthcare Cost, Healthcare Quality, and the inapplicability of international medical insurance are the most important barriers. More than fifty percent of barriers fall under the linkage quadrant in MICMAC analysis which reflects that overcoming one barrier helps in overcoming other barriers as well. This study is one of the most comprehensive accounts of the barriers to MDT in the UAE and strategies to overcome these barriers. To the best of our knowledge, we were not able to find a similar study. Citation: Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes PubDate: 2022-11-30 DOI: 10.1108/WHATT-10-2022-0122 Issue No:Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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Authors:Mohit Vij, Sanjay Nadkarni Abstract: This paper aims to review the contribution made by the theme issue to the body of knowledge on tourism growth drivers and challenges in the Middle East and the subsequent impact of tourism growth drivers in the region in developing and promoting tourism. A content analysis of the contributing articles featured in this theme issue was undertaken. Additionally, industry white papers and government portals were consulted to identify the historical relevance, current proceedings and future scope of tourism in the Middle East. This summary article highlights the key outcomes relating to the tourism growth drivers and challenges in the Middle East that will assist in policy and decision-making by the pertinent stakeholders, especially in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Despite steep growth in international arrivals, tourism development in the Middle East has not been adequately addressed in academia. This theme issue highlights the region's tourism-related background, problems and constraints, thereby addressing a critical gap in the literature. Citation: Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes PubDate: 2022-11-30 DOI: 10.1108/WHATT-11-2022-0127 Issue No:Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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Authors:Mohit Vij, Sanjay Nadkarni Abstract: Tourism in the Middle East is distinct and diverse, as are its associated challenges. The purpose of this paper is to examine the various opportunities and constraints facing the Middle East region in developing and promoting its tourism. Content analysis of the current literature was conducted, and industry white papers and government portals were consulted to identify the historical relevance, current proceedings and future scope of tourism in the Middle East. Given the diverse attractions, history, heritage and cuisine, the scope and potential to develop tourism in the Middle East region is enormous. However, political turmoil in the past and its stereotypical image emerged as the major constraints. Acknowledging the significance of the tourism sector, the governments of the region are trying hard to improve international arrivals and revenues. Despite a steep growth in international arrivals, tourism in the Middle East has not been adequately addressed in academia. This paper highlights the region’s tourism-related background, issues and constraints, thus, addressing a critical gap in the literature. Citation: Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes PubDate: 2022-11-29 DOI: 10.1108/WHATT-11-2022-0126 Issue No:Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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Authors:Ardhendu Shekhar Singh, Sanjai K. Parahoo, Madhavi Ayyagari, Thanika Devi Juwaheer Abstract: In this viewpoint, the theme editors provide an overview of the theme issue that aims to address the role of rural tourism in supporting the wellbeing and socio-economic development of local stakeholders. The paper covers different facets of rural tourism in promoting the socio-economic development of rural communities. Specifically, the articles in this issue capture the nuances of how local stakeholders in rural tourism in different geographical regions use various strategies to promote the well-being and socio-economic development of local communities. The papers in this theme issue demonstrate the potential role of rural tourism in promoting the socio-economic development of rural communities. These papers make an important contribution to the theory and practice of rural tourism by providing in-depth insight into the recovery and growth strategies adopted by stakeholders in diverse rural tourism destinations, especially in the wake of turbulent times such as the recent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. These papers suggest frameworks for further research and provide case studies of innovation and adaptation. This theme issue analyses stories of innovation, adaptation, and growth of rural tourism in various destinations that presented the industry with unique challenges in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The discussion provides some lessons and charts direction for the industry. The significance is greater when stakeholders of rural tourism and policymakers view rural tourism as an engine for the recovery and growth of the rural and national economy. Citation: Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes PubDate: 2022-11-07 DOI: 10.1108/WHATT-08-2022-0100 Issue No:Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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Authors:Eliza Vlasich, Diane Lee, Catherine Archer Abstract: This study utilises a case study approach to explore how local tourism providers in the Shire of Collie, Western Australia (Collie), a coal-mining region, use social media to promote the providers' businesses and the destination. Semi-structured interviews with 11 local, small business tourism providers were conducted. These interviews explored the use of social media from local tourism providers' perspectives. The findings show that local tourism providers in Collie recognise the benefits of using social media for promotion, although there are some barriers when using social media. Barriers included insufficient time, difficulty in measuring the impact of social media and a lack of knowledge on how to use social media effectively. Participant benefits included reaching a wider audience and a “younger” demographic. As a small regional destination case study, a limited number of tourism businesses were included in the study. Therefore, this study utilised Dickman's 5 A's of a successful tourism destination to encapsulate a robust representation of tourism businesses. This study details the experiences of local tourism providers in a rural destination, providing insight into using social media to market a rural tourist destination. The study provides a methodology for application to other rural tourist destinations, particularly emerging tourism destinations, in order to understand how local tourism providers use social media. This study provides insights on local tourism providers' perspectives by detailing their experiences in a town and region transforming their tourism offering. The introduction of small-scale renewable energy sees mining communities' economic landscape changing. Further, opportunities for employment within the coal mining sector are declining and there is a need to develop new industry to support the economy. Tourism is an integral part of this transition in Collie. This study offers insights into how local tourism providers are adapting and utilising social media to promote the town's newly established tourism offerings. Citation: Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes PubDate: 2022-11-07 DOI: 10.1108/WHATT-08-2022-0102 Issue No:Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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Authors:Elisabeth Kastenholz, Arminda Paço, Ana Nave Abstract: The study analyses residents' impact perceptions and attitudes towards wine tourism development in a Portuguese hinterland region. It additionally assesses heterogeneity within the community regarding these perceptions and attitudes to inform wine route managers about possible implications and to aid adequate intervention for sustainable regional tourism development. Data were collected from February to August 2020 among the residents of Beira Interior Region (n = 272), via a survey, regarding tourism development and impact perceptions (social, economic, cultural and environmental) of the emerging wine route. Results reveal that the residents have rather positive attitudes towards tourism development with perceived and anticipated social, economic, cultural and environmental benefits. Some negative perceptions were also observed. Differences amongst residents, based on age, education and sector of activity, are also assessed and implications discussed. The latter lie mostly in suggestions regarding sensitization of residents, particularly the older and less educated, and community inclusion in engaging, endogenous-resource-based, co-created wine tourism experience development. The paper provides an analysis of the community's view of rural wine tourism development, going beyond the generally studied business and market perspectives. The community's perspective is important not only due to its central stake in place development, but also its role in preserving local culture, specifically food and wine traditions, providing a welcoming atmosphere and possibly engaging in innovative, co-creative tourism experiences, permitting the generation of benefits to all involved. Community involvement is relevant from the very beginning of the destination development cycle, and hence pertinent for this emergent wine tourism route as well. Citation: Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes PubDate: 2022-11-03 DOI: 10.1108/WHATT-08-2022-0095 Issue No:Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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Authors:Wlla Obeidat Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to analyze the latest phenomenon emerging from rural towns and villages, where a surge in traditional cafes and restaurants has spurred a new trend in sustainable tourism development. This phenomenon is linked to local efforts to mitigate the socio-economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the series of lockdowns that accompanied it. This paper focuses on two critical lines of inquiry: (1) Where did the idea stem from' and (2) How has it developed to the extent that it now constitutes one of the few primary sources of income for underdeveloped communities' Exploratory research was conducted in rural and urban areas where tourism is still developing. In depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with a sample consisting of ten owners of rural and traditional cafes who consented to their participation in the study. Emerging trends such as rural and traditional cafes and restaurants can be a stable source of income for underserved communities in uncertain times. Local entrepreneurs often play a critical role in the development of sustainable rural tourism efforts as they have a better understanding of the needs of their own local community. Furthermore, their projects typically carry higher levels of authenticity and innovation with a greater ability to attract both local and international travelers. Taking into consideration the exploratory nature of this study, a small convenience sample was used. This study highlights the importance of innovation in the tourism industry during precarious times, the most recent example of which was the global COVID-19 pandemic. This paper suggests that the industry can rely on new emerging trends to mitigate the loss of revenue from previous sources of tourism. Furthermore, the study showcases the importance of domestic tourism trends and how it can lead to an expansion in international tourism resources. Citation: Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes PubDate: 2022-11-01 DOI: 10.1108/WHATT-08-2022-0098 Issue No:Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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Authors:Mohit Vij, Amitabh Upadhya, Kakul Agha, Vazeerjaan Begum, Basma Waleed Kashmoola, John Roy Senior Abstract: The issue of female economic empowerment in the Middle East and the North Africa region (MENA) has attracted significant attention; however, its potential in the tourism sector has not been fully explored. This study aims to identify the steps involved in conceptualizing, designing, and conducting a customized tourism training program to economically empower women in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Grounded in stakeholder theory and using a triangulation method of data analysis, the study is an outcome of mixed-method research. The data were collected through focus group interviews, personal interviews and a survey involving women stakeholders from public and private sectors. The study revealed that the desired components for tourist guide training among Emirati women include career paths, ways to seek support from family, entrepreneurial and leadership skills development, and destination knowledge. The study provides theoretical and practical implications for a systematic training approach undertaken by a destination management organization (DMO) in liaison with other stakeholders. The study recommends a series of phases to scientifically design and conduct tourism training in order to empower women. Citation: Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes PubDate: 2022-11-01 DOI: 10.1108/WHATT-08-2022-0099 Issue No:Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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Authors:Rajesh Aithal, R.K. Anil, Dechen Angmo Abstract: This paper aims to study organisations involved in rural tourism during the COVID-19 crisis and draw out lessons for similar organisations. A qualitative approach has been adopted to develop the case studies for the three organisations, and the popular crisis management model has been used to analyse their responses. The three organisations studied responded well to survive the COVID-19 crisis, and, the responses were grouped into three broad themes, namely importance of a good team supporting the business, increased digital engagements and the need to diversify their customer bases. Organisations working in tourism sector have been facing several crises concurrently. The findings of this study on rural tourism should hopefully provide feedback and guidance to face the future challenges that might emerge in the tourism sector. This study would perhaps be one of the first to map the responses of organisations working in India during the COVID crisis, where rural tourism has slowly started to become a significant rural development strategy. Citation: Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes PubDate: 2022-11-01 DOI: 10.1108/WHATT-08-2022-0104 Issue No:Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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Authors:Ardhendu Shekhar Singh, Sanjai K. Parahoo, Madhavi Ayyagari, Thanika Devi Juwaheer Abstract: This concluding paper summarizes the articles presented in this issue and the significant themes that emerged from the authors' contributions. The main objective of this theme issue on rural tourism is to examine different facets of rural tourism that are critical to short-term recovery as well as long-term sustainable development. This article draws on the findings of the papers and revisits the question: how could rural tourism provide better support for well-being and socioeconomic development' The papers in this issue can be classified into one of three clusters: (1) cultural traditions; (2) support for rural tourism service providers and (3) embracing new technologies. In addition to classifying these papers, the authors propose a conceptual framework to achieve sustainable rural tourism and development comprising four critical success factors for sustainable rural tourism and development. The main objective of this theme issue is to examine different facets of rural tourism that are critical to short-term recovery as well as long-term sustainable development. Here the authors summarize the findings and propose a conceptual model for the benefit of managers. The authors think that the model could be helpful in designing a strategy for developing sustainable rural tourism projects. It includes reference to (1) stakeholder engagement and support for capacity-building, (2) gradual and organic growth processes, (3) valorization of sociocultural traditions and preservation of cultural heritage and (4) leveraging digital technology in marketing strategy. Citation: Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes PubDate: 2022-10-24 DOI: 10.1108/WHATT-09-2022-0108 Issue No:Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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Authors:Kaewta Muangasame, Eunice Tan Abstract: This study examines a phygital approach to rural cultural heritage tourism, adopted by a rural community in Sapphaya, Chai Nat Province, Thailand, in response to the Covid-19 crisis. Specifically, it investigates a community’s initiatives to amalgamate its physical and digital marketing communications in order to engage with consumers as a strategy for destination recovery and resilience. This is a qualitative exploratory study involving three stages of action, applying two research approaches: (1) participatory action research (PAR) with Sapphaya’s tourism stakeholders, and (2) social media research utilising netnographic analysis of Sapphaya’s tourism social enterprise social media pages. The findings indicate that a phygital rural cultural heritage strategy can facilitate the interconnectivity between a destination’s physical and digital dimensions of its cultural heritage tourism product, thereby enhancing its intrinsic value, meaning and experiential perceptions. Specifically, it recommends that a successful community-based phygitalisation strategy requires grassroot engagement across all stages of planning, development, implementation and management of the rural cultural heritage tourism product. The paper focusses on the cultural heritage tourism strategy adopted by a rural community across the physical-digital-phygital spectrum to augment its sustainable tourism development during a time of crisis. A framework for phygital rural cultural heritage as a strategy for destination resilience and recovery is also proposed. This study adopts a local engagement approach to develop a cooperative community heritage management strategy, based upon local rural capacity building towards digitalisation and empowering innovative partnerships amongst its stakeholders. Citation: Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes PubDate: 2022-09-01 DOI: 10.1108/WHATT-08-2022-0096 Issue No:Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)
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Authors:Saurabh Kumar Dixit, Kimberley Camelia S. Langstieh, Abijith Abraham Abstract: This paper aims to derive insights from Kongthong village, popularly known as the “whistling village,” a low-key rural tourism destination that has often gone under the radar. As an upcoming rural tourism destination, mothers create a unique tune for their children, ensuring that their identity remains unique. This is because the residents of Kongthong have two names: an official name and another in the form of a whistled tune. The primary objective of this study is to better understand the rural tourism activities at Kongthong and to explore the symbiotic relationship between indigenous cultural practices and holistic development through tourism. The study uses an ethnographic approach wherein the researchers conducted in-depth interviews and group discussions. The study respondents are the village elders, youth, men and women across different age groups. The various governing bodies act as secondary data sources concerning tourism and development. The study observes that rural tourism activities in Kongthong go hand in hand with understanding indigenous knowledge. The governing bodies and the local community are on the right path to achieving potential growth and preserving the village as a holistic rural tourist destination. Rural tourism in Kongthong highlights the traditional practices of the Khasi community. Owing to this, Kongthong was nominated for the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) best tourism village by the Government of India as it showcases local culture through social, economic and political elements at the destination that add value to a tourism product. Citation: Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes PubDate: 2022-08-30 DOI: 10.1108/WHATT-08-2022-0097 Issue No:Vol. ahead-of-print, No. ahead-of-print (2022)