E.2.1 Growth of Rural and Urban Tourism Hotspots Notes

Factors Influencing Tourism Development

1. For much of history, traveling was difficult, expensive, uncomfortable and dangerous, and the concept of tourism did not exist.
2. Nowadays tourism - traveling for leisure - is considered a natural part of life and a pleasure.
3. Tourism makes use of primary and secondary resources:

• Primary tourism resources are the attractions for tourism or recreation, including landscapes and scenery, climate, wildlife, as well as cultural and heritage sites not built specifically for the purpose of tourism.
• Secondary tourism resources include accommodation, catering (gastronomy), transportation, entertainment and shopping facilities.

Physical Factors: The Natural Appeal

1. Natural Landscapes

1. Mountains, beaches, and lakes are some of the most sought-after destinations for travelers.
2. Different landscapes reflecting different types of topography will attract tourists with diversified preferences.

2. Climate and Biodiversity

1. Climate plays a crucial role in determining the seasonality of tourism.
2. Biodiversity - richness of species of flora and fauna - is a major tourist attraction in multiple places.

Hotspots: Attracting a Significant Number of Visitors

1. Hotspots are areas of intense sporting, leisure or tourism activity that attract above average numbers of visitors due to their appealing attractions, cultural experiences, natural beauty, or recreational opportunities.
2. Characteristics of tourism hotspots include:

• High Visitor Volume: These destinations typically receive large numbers of tourists.
• Diverse Attractions: Hotspots may offer a variety of attractions, such as landmarks, events, activities, and amenities that cater to different interests.
• Economic Impact: The influx of tourists often contributes significantly to the local economy, supporting businesses, jobs, and infrastructure development.

1. There are rural and urban tourism hotspots.

Examples of Tourism Hotspots Development

1. Urban Tourism: Paris, France

1. Paris is a prime example of a city that combines primary and secondary resources to create a world-class tourist destination.
2. Paris is considered an urban tourism hotspot due to its iconic attractions, such as the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral, combined with its rich cultural heritage, world-class dining, vibrant arts scene, and superb accessibility by airplanes, high-speed trains, and road transportation.

2. Rural Tourism: Yellowstone National Park, USA

1. Yellowstone is considered to be the oldest national park and one of the best known in the world. It was designated a UNESCO biosphere reserve and a World Heritage site.
2. It serves as a tourism hotspot by attracting millions of visitors each year with its stunning geothermal features, diverse wildlife, and scenic landscapes, while actively promoting environmental conservation.

Negative Effects of Tourism Hotspots Development

1. Economic Dependency

1. Relying heavily on tourism can make destinations vulnerable to economic downturns, natural disasters, or global events like pandemics.

2. Cultural Erosion

1. The influx of tourists can disrupt local cultures and traditions, leading to commodification or loss of authenticity.

3. Environmental Degradation

1. The development of tourism hotspots often leads to habitat destruction, increased pollution, reduced biodiversity, and resource depletion.