Course 2007-2008 a.y.

Course Objectives

The course focuses on the cross-disciplinary study of cultural, social and economic issues in tourism. The objective is to provide the tools for understanding the dynamics and new frontiers of the tourism market, both from the demand and the supply side. The discussions examine methodological issues and practical strategies to maximize the tourism potential of cultural resources and sites. The complex relationship among tourism companies, territories and stakeholders are studied, analyzing the role of networks and the economic and environmental impacts at the destination level and the instruments to enhance the value of specific local resources.The course takes advantage of the theoretical and practical approaches derived from the tourism economics. Tourism policy implications are also discussed during the course.

Course Content Summary

• The tourism system: dynamics and trends
• Cultural, social and economic impacts of tourism
• Destination management and tourism competitiveness
• Environmental issues related to tourism development
• The hospitality and tourism distribution system
• Information and knowledge management in tourism
• The role of ICT for the cultural heritage: evolution and evaluation models
• The management of the UNESCO cultural sites
• Tourism and poverty alleviation
• Typologies of cultural attractions and their tourism role (enogastronomy, fashion, movie industry, events)
• Case histories of tourism strategies and policies at a local level  

Workshops with experts and executives are carried out during the course.

Detailed Description of Assessment Methods

Attending students

• 50% written exam on topics discussed during the lectures
• 50% individual/group assignment 

A partial exam is scheduled during the course.

Non-attending students

• 50% written exam on topics discussed during the lectures
• 50% individual/group assignment 

Textbooks

• N. Vanhove, The Economics of Tourism Destinations. Amsterdam: Elsevier (Chapters: 1, 2 (pp. 21-35 & 45-49), 3, 4, 5, 7 (pp.169-187) and 9)
• Articles and handouts used during the course published by EGEA.