Social Tourism in Europe

In austere times, Social Tourism has the potential to make innovative contributions to the restructuring of both the visitor economy and social policy. This book is a timely addition to the emerging research on this neglected topic. Its wide-ranging and challenging review of the concepts that underlie social tourism together with examples of how it is practised will make it invaluable to researchers, students and policymakers.

* Robert Maitland, University of Westminster, UK *

This well-researched collection of papers provides a refreshing insight into the diverse historical experiences and interpretations of ‘social tourism’ across Europe. Through a combination of penetrating theoretical analysis and up-to-date practical illustration it raises a number of fundamental questions regarding the role of tourism in contemporary societies and presents a powerful case for regarding tourism as more than a commercially-driven industry or item of discretionary leisure consumption but also as a vital social need and universal right.

* Raoul Bianchi, University of East London, UK *

This book, therefore, fills a need among tourism scholars and industry organizers who seek practical information on the rights and responsibilities assigned travel, and the socioeconomic and environmental sustainability of tourism in the 21st Century. I found it a useful resource for introductory university courses in tourism and cultural anthropology. I would also recommend it for anyone interested in the history of European tourism and the ceremonial nature of tourist activities.

* Greg Ringer, Royal Roads University, Canada in Anatolia, Volume 23, Issue 2, 20