Broughton Quarterly - Fall 2007 - (Page 14) travel trends GEOTOURiSM A dopting a principle from its cousin, ecotourism—that tourism revenue can promote conservation—and extending that principle beyond nature to encompass culture and history as well, geotourism is catching on as we approach 2008. According to The Center for Sustainable Destinations, National Geographic Society, geotourism is defined as “tourism that sustains or enhances the geographical character of a place—its environment, culture, aesthetics, heritage, and the well-being of its residents.” Geotourism incorporates the concept of placebased sustainable tourism—that destinations should remain unspoiled for future generations— while allowing for enhancement that protects the character of the locale. More than ever before, travelers are favoring destinations that protect the authenticity of the place. According to the Travel Industry Association of America, at least 55.1 million Americans could be classified as “sustainable tourists.” Specifically, the study states: “These travelers have ceaseless expectations for unique and culturally authentic travel experiences that protect and preserve the ecological and cultural environment.” Ibah Luxury Villas and Spa in Ubud, Bali provides the kind of culturally authentic travel experience geotourists seek. Do NoT DisTurb Time PoverTy So much to do, so little time. You’ve probably said it. And you’re not alone. It’s estimated that nearly half of Americans suffer from “time poverty”—the generalized sense that there’s not enough time to do what we want. Nearly 1/3 of respondents to a recent Expedia survey reported that they did not take all their vacation days. In fact, Americans, with an average of 12 vacation days per year, leave a total of 21 million vacation days unused. Only 1% of Americans plan to take a two-week vacation this year, down from 16% in 2006. T hings are turning around for the hotel Do Not Disturb sign, as generic versions are being replaced by examples of clever branding and marketing. A hotel in downtown Louisville, Kentucky has a colorful “I’m Hittin’ the Hay” sign to honor the city’s horse racing history. At another hotel, pet friendly rooms have a sign that reads, “Grrr… Caution, you are entering the temporary habitat of a very special creature.” The signs at Chicago’s House of Blues pay tribute to Little Richard’s lyrics, “Keep a knockin’ but you can’t come in.” And at the Tallman Hotel in Lake County, door signs reflect the region’s folksy character—and add an unexpected modern twist. 1 Broughton Quarterly Fall 2007
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