You’ve probably heard about the powerful impact that Heritage Tourism can have on us and how it can strengthen our beliefs and help us change our lives for the better. This is because most people are interested in discovering the roots of their ancestors and destinations whist living meaningful experiences and stepping back in time. But let’s start from the beginning by defining Heritage Tourism and its benefits.
What is Heritage Tourism?
Heritage Tourism is a branch of tourism oriented towards the cultural heritage of the location where tourism is occurring. Heritage tourists travel to experience the places, artefacts and activities that authentically represent the stories and people of the past. These travellers want to understand how a population or place was like and how it has evolved.
There are 3 subcategories of Heritage Tourism:
• Cultural Tourism is all about attending art galleries, museums, concerts or musicals;
• Natural Tourism encompasses the visit to national parks, landforms, rural scenery and flora & fauna in general;
• Visiting historic buildings, archaeological sites and industrial homes is defined as Mixed (or built) Tourism.
Hence, Historical Tourism is a blend of education, entertainment, preservation and profit.
Why is Heritage Tourism so important?
According to recent trends, Heritage Travel is on the rise and it will continue to grow in future years. There are many reasons why this type of tourism is (and will continue to be) so popular.
Firstly, more and more people are seeking authentic experiences to reinforce their bond with the past, ancestors and destinations. By experiencing new cultures, new backgrounds and new customs, travellers can better understand themselves, change their perspective towards the world and discover a whole new angle to considering the reality.
Also, unlike the conventional leisure or business vacation, Heritage Tourism can diversify the travel experience and help travellers expand their horizons by learning something new. While enjoyment is still a crucial part of the vacation, the typical Heritage Tourist expects a greater degree of involvement with, or immersion into, the site(s), with a heavy educational component.
Finally Heritage Travellers tend to stay longer in the selected locations, spend more and travel more often. This means that Heritage Tourism supports local economies and helps them flourish in several ways, by:
- Creating new jobs and opportunities for the local communities;
- Injecting money into the local economy;
- Supporting local businesses and helping them grow;
- Helping locals in the development of infrastructures, amenities and other fundamental resources.
Do you have a big interest in Heritage Travel? Does Heritage Tourism pique your curiosity?
Then look no further and book your next trip to the discovery of beautiful places on the footsteps of your ancestors and experience your favourite destination like a local.
With more than 200 stunning hotels in beautiful cities soaked in tradition, Heritage Hotels of Europe can help you discover the most authentic traditions of your favourite destinations.
