sustainable tourism management in urban settings

Thank you for visiting nature.com. You are using a browser version with limited support for CSS. To obtain the best experience, we recommend you use a more up to date browser (or turn off compatibility mode in Internet Explorer). In the meantime, to ensure continued support, we are displaying the site without styles and JavaScript.

• View all journals
• My Account Login
• Explore content
• About the journal
• Publish with us
• Sign up for alerts
• Review Article
• Open access
• Published: 10 September 2024

When urban poverty becomes a tourist attraction: a systematic review of slum tourism research

• Tianhan Gui   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0001-6069-3046 1 &
• Wei Zhong 1  

Humanities and Social Sciences Communications volume  11 , Article number:  1178 ( 2024 ) Cite this article

Metrics details

• Business and management

Over the last two decades, the phenomenon of “slum tourism” and its academic exploration have seen considerable growth. This study presents a systematic literature review of 122 peer-reviewed journal articles, employing a combined approach of bibliometric and content analysis. Our review highlights prominent authors and journals in this domain, revealing that the most cited journals usually focus on tourism studies or geography/urban studies. This reflects a confluence of travel motivations and urban complexities within slum tourism. Through keyword co-occurrence analysis, we identified three primary research areas: the touristic transformation of urban informal settlements, the depiction and valorization of urban poverty, and the socio-economic impacts of slum tourism. This study not only maps the current landscape of research in this area but also identifies existing gaps. It suggests that the economic, social, and cultural effects of slum tourism are areas that require more in-depth investigation in future research endeavors.

Similar content being viewed by others

Knowledge mapping of relative deprivation theory and its applicability in tourism research

Bibliometric analysis of trends in COVID-19 and tourism

A ten-year review analysis of the impact of digitization on tourism development (2012–2022)

Introduction.

“Slums” are defined by UN-Habitat ( 2006 ) as underdeveloped urban areas lacking in a durable housing, adequate living space, safe water access, sanitation, and tenure security. Emerging from urban growth disparities, these informal settlements have proliferated since the latter half of the 20th century, especially in the Global South’s cities. Despite progress in urban planning and poverty reduction, UN-Habitat ( 2020 ) reports that over a billion people, with 80% in developing regions, still live in such conditions.

Slums undeniably “represent one of the most enduring faces of poverty, inequality, exclusion and deprivation” (UN-Habitat, 2020 , p. 25), necessitating policy intervention. However, the term “slum” is controversial among scholars as it often carries negative connotations, conflating poor housing conditions with the identities of residents (Gilbert, 2007 ). Beyond poverty and disease, it suggests crime and immorality, contributing to a narrative of fear and fascination (Davis, 2006 ; Mayne, 2017 ).

Recent decades have seen a surge in “slum tours” in the Global South, attracting tourists from the affluent North. Driven by complex motives that “consist of a mix of adventurous inquiry and humanitarian ambitions” (Dürr, 2012b , p. 707), tourists from the affluent North desire to glimpse “the other side of the world” (Steinbrink, 2012 , p. 232). This trend has turned guided tours in informal settlements into a booming business in cities like Mumbai, Rio de Janeiro, Cape Town, and Nairobi, drawing approximately one million tourists annually (Frenzel, 2016 ).

Modern slum tourism has deep historical roots, originating as “slumming” in Victorian England and early 20th-century America. Rapid urbanization in cities like London and New York created neglected areas, which, to middle and upper-class observers, represented a mysterious and chaotic “other world” (Steinbrink, 2012 ). This perception of danger and uncivilization paradoxically attracted bourgeois curiosity (Frenzel et al. 2015 ).

By the late 1970s, with the surge in international tourism, this localized “slumming” transformed into a global phenomenon. Affluent residents from the Global North began exploring underprivileged urban pockets in the Global South, making these areas tourism hotspots (Freire-Medeiros, 2009 ; Iqani, 2016 ). This trend marked the beginning of modern slum tourism, a practice that took a significant turn in the 1990s in South Africa. Initially focusing on anti-apartheid landmarks in townships like Soweto, Johannesburg (Steinbrink, 2012 ), these tours diversified to other cities, including Rio de Janeiro, Mumbai, and Manila (Frenzel et al. 2015 ). The once sporadic visits to informal settlements have now metamorphosed into well-orchestrated tours, often recommended by travel guidebooks. Today’s travelers can dine at local eateries, visit schools, interact with residents, or even step inside their homes (Frenzel, 2017 ; Frenzel and Blakeman, 2015 ). The industry has professionalized, with cities in the Global South attracting tourists mainly from the United Kingdom, United States, Germany, and Scandinavia (Frenzel, 2012 ; Frenzel and Blakeman, 2015 ; Steinbrink, 2012 ).

The burgeoning interest in slum tourism has sparked significant scholarly discourse, particularly in the new millennium. Research in this realm predominantly orbits around the ethical implications of such tourism, its role in mitigating poverty, and the duties of governing bodies in these scenarios. Slum tourism research encompasses various disciplines, including urban studies, tourism and hospitality, and human geography, with a significant proliferation of publications in recent years.

The surge in research has also led to several evaluative studies scrutinizing the breadth and depth of the subject. Frenzel’s ( 2013 ) thematic review, for instance, probed the nexus between slum tourism and poverty alleviation. Given that most slum tours proclaim poverty alleviation as their core intent, Frenzel’s inquiry into the intersection of this mission with tourism was insightful. He also championed the need for a rigorous exploration of the multifaceted valorization of poverty within tourism dynamics. A more expansive review by Frenzel et al. ( 2015 ) delved into various research focuses like the evolution of slum tourism, tourist experiences, operational aspects, economic implications, and so on. Their assessment underscored existing research voids, emphasizing the necessity for more nuanced, comparative studies. Tzanelli ( 2018 ) examined the socio-cultural and political drivers behind tourists’ inclinations towards informal settlements, critically analyzing the epistemological frameworks employed by scholars.

While these reviews have significantly sketched the contours of the discipline, many leaned heavily on conventional literature review techniques—predicated on selected, and at times, circumscribed resources (Petticrew and Roberts, 2008 ). Such manual methodologies, albeit insightful, are prone to biases “during the identification, selection, and synthesis of included studies” (Haddaway et al. 2015 , p. 1956). A systematic literature review, which adheres to rigorous protocols and curtails subjective inclinations, would be more enriching. Such a methodological shift not only offers a panoramic view of pivotal research arguments and deliberations but also illuminates evolving trends and perspectives. The surge in slum tourism literature recently underscores its dynamic nature, necessitating a renewed scrutiny of nascent discussions eluding preceding reviews.

Addressing this research exigency, our current endeavor undertakes a comprehensive examination of a gamut of articles illuminating diverse research angles on slum tourism. Employing both bibliometric and qualitative content analysis techniques, our study dissects 122 journal articles published over the past twenty years. We endeavor to spotlight seminal authors and journals, delineate prevailing themes in slum tourism studies, and carve out prospective trajectories for forthcoming research endeavors.

Methodology

Search process and sample selection.

A systematic review requires researchers to thoroughly examine all existing studies in a certain research area. This ensures a replicable, scientific, and transparent approach with minimal bias (Denyer and Tranfield, 2009 ). We adopt the “Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis” (PRISMA) guideline (Moher et al. 2009 ) to identify eligible articles. The screening process is presented in Fig. 1 . We consulted an advanced keyword search on Google Scholar to retrieve literature on slum tourism. We chose Google Scholar because it provides broader access to a diverse range of scholarly articles, including those from various regions and disciplines that may not be indexed in databases like Web of Science or Scopus. Furthermore, since this study aims to review research articles on slum tourism, which is pertinent in the Global South, many journals or articles published or authored in the Global South are not indexed in Web of Science or Scopus but can be found on Google Scholar. This accessibility is vital for ensuring the inclusion of relevant studies that reflect the diverse contexts of slum tourism.

The systematic workflow and results.

For our subject search, we used the keywords “slum tourism.” We consciously omitted country-specific terms like barrios, township, and favela to prevent a regional bias (Baffoe and Kintrea, 2023 ). Google Scholar Advanced Search provides the choice to locate keywords either “in the title of the article” or “anywhere in the article.” We chose the latter, ensuring the inclusion of articles that might employ regional terms synonymous with “slum” in their titles. This approach also considered the potential cross-referencing of slum tourism literature in these articles. Conducted in August 2023 without time constraints, our search yielded 2690 materials.

To uphold the literature’s quality, only peer-reviewed scientific articles were chosen, excluding “grey literatures” such as reports, theses, conference proceedings, and other similar outputs. Books and book chapters were not incorporated into our review because our focus extended to trends in slum tourism research. The accelerated pace of academic publishing in journals, as compared to the longer timelines associated with books, means they often house the most current findings and trends. Utilizing a bibliometric analysis approach, we found the standardized structure of journal articles particularly beneficial, allowing for a more straightforward process in extracting, comparing, and synthesizing data. Books and their chapters, given their varied formats, might not always provide this level of consistency. Recognizing that a systematic review cannot encompass all languages, we confined our study to English-written articles.

After the initial screening, 148 articles closely related to slum tourism were identified. Our perspective on slum tourism aligns with Frenzel’s ( 2018 , p. 51) definition, describing it as “tourism where poverty and associated signifiers become central themes and (part of the) attraction of the visited destination.” Upon a thorough review of the full texts, it became apparent that some articles, while mentioning “slum tourism,” did not primarily focus on it. For instance, the work of Jones and Sanyal ( 2015 ) discusses the portrayal of Dharavi—India and Asia’s largest informal settlement—in slum tours, arts, and documentaries. Although their article addresses how Dharavi is represented in slum tours, its primary focus is on the depiction of informal settlements and urban poverty across various media, not slum tourism per se. Consequently, this article was excluded from our dataset. We also eliminated editorials, short commentaries, research notes, and prior literature reviews. This filtering narrowed our selection to 107 peer-reviewed articles. An exhaustive examination of their references added another 15 articles, giving a total of 122 articles. Figure 1 visualizes the selection process.

Data analysis

This study utilized both bibliometric and qualitative content analyses. Bibliometric analysis is crucial for identifying both established and emerging research themes as well as influential authors, key studies, and prominent journals (Hajek et al. 2022 ). We employed VOSviewer, a leading bibliometric analysis software, to undertake co-citation and keyword co-occurrence analyses, examining slum tourism research. Co-citation analysis pinpoints influential authors, studies, and journals, leveraging citations as pivotal indicators of scientific impact (De Bellis, 2009 ). Meanwhile, keyword co-occurrence analysis highlights prominent keywords and their relationships, signposting research field hotspots (Wang and Yang, 2019 ).

Augmenting the bibliometric approach, our qualitative content analysis delved deeper into the primary themes of slum tourism research. The keyword co-occurrence analysis supplied a broad view of research themes and trending topics. Emerging nodes and clusters helped pinpoint dominant research themes. By meticulously analyzing each article’s content, we executed a critical review of every theme. We also broached prospective research trajectories in the article’s conclusion.

Overview of slum tourism research

Figure 2 illustrates the evolving research landscape of slum tourism. The journey began in 2004 with two seminal papers by Kaplan ( 2004 ) and Rogerson ( 2004 ). Both delved into Johannesburg’s township tourism, emphasizing tourism’s potential in poverty mitigation and the region’s economic upliftment. Post-2004, the domain attracted escalating scholarly interest, evidenced by a notable publication upswing from 2012 onward.

Publishing trends of slum tourism research.

Two pivotal discursive events in Bristol (2010) and Potsdam (2014) further catalyzed the field’s evolution. Gathering global experts on slum tourism, these events spurred foundational texts that have since informed the discipline. The post-Bristol momentum produced a special Tourism Geographies issue in 2012, curated by Frenzel and Koens. Successive publications, like the “Slum Tourism” special issue of Die Erde 144 (2) in 2013, and the themed “Slum Tourism” issue of Tourism Review International in 2015, further cemented the field’s prominence. Undoubtedly, these seminal conferences and publications have been instrumental in surging scholarly endeavors in slum tourism research.

We conducted a co-citation analysis to pinpoint the leading authors and journals in the realm of slum tourism research. A co-citation refers to the simultaneous citation of two documents (Small, 1973 ). Such analysis aids scholars in organizing scientific literature and grasping the evolution of specific research domains (Surwase et al. 2011 ).

Figure 3 illustrates the outcomes of our author co-citation analysis. We established a threshold of 40 citations to identify the most influential authors within our dataset of 4229 authors. Only 11 authors met this threshold, allowing for a focused examination of the core contributors in the field. Their significant scholarly impact is reflected by their extensive citations, with node size in the visualization representing co-citation strength. Rogerson, Frenzel, and Steinbrink emerged as the most frequently cited authors, with the highest link strengths of 3978, 3173, and 2734, respectively. Rogerson’s work delved into the economic ramifications of tourism in South African townships, highlighting the part slum tourism plays in poverty reduction and sustainable community economic growth (Booyens and Rogerson, 2019 a, 2019b ; Rogerson, 2014 ). He also discussed urban tourism’s influence on small and medium-sized enterprises (Rogerson, 2004 , 2008 ). In contrast, Frenzel and Steinbrink examined the commercialization of urban informal settlements and the portrayal and appreciation of poverty (Frenzel, 2017 ; Frenzel and Blakeman, 2015 ; Steinbrink, 2012 , 2013 ).

Author co-citation network.

Other notable authors in this field include Freire-Medeiros, who discussed the transformation of Brazilian favelas into tourist attractions (Freire-Medeiros et al. 2013 ; Freire-Medeiros, 2007 , 2009 , 2011 ), Koens, who probed the growth of small and medium-sized businesses in South African townships (Koens and Thomas, 2015 , 2016 ) and local perceptions of slum tourism in India (Slikker and Koens, 2015 ), and Booyens, who primarily focused on responsible tourism in South African townships (Booyens, 2010 ; Booyens and Rogerson, 2019b , 2018). Rolfes also made a significant contribution by studying the ethical aspects of slum tourism (Burgold and Rolfes, 2013 ; Rolfes, 2010 ).

Intriguingly, although not a slum tourism specialist, Urry stands among the eleven most-cited authors. He is renowned for introducing “the tourist gaze” concept (Urry, 1990 ), suggesting that tourist experiences and choices are more influenced by the tourism industry, societal norms, and cultural factors than by personal autonomy. This theory offers a crucial framework for understanding how poverty is portrayed in slum tourism and the dynamics between tourists and local residents.

Figure 4 presents the map of journal co-citations, illuminating the academic areas focused on the topic of “slum tourism.” A journal co-citation analysis, conducted with a threshold of 40 citations, identified 11 key journals from a pool of 3013 in our dataset, underscoring their central roles in the discourse of the field. Notably, the Annals of Tourism Research occupies a central position on the map with the highest link strength of 2608, highlighting its prominence as the most-cited journal in slum tourism research. These journals are categorized into two primary clusters: tourism studies and geography/urban studies. This categorization reflects the dual scholarly interest in slum tourism, which intertwines travel motivations with the complexities of urban environments. On one hand, tourism researchers probe the allure of these regions, the ensuing cultural interactions, and the ethical debates surrounding poverty as an attraction. Conversely, geography and urban studies scholars explore the spatial structures of informal settlements, underlying socio-economic drivers, and the reciprocal impact between tourism and urban evolution. Collectively, these disciplines provide a nuanced view of slum tourism’s multifaceted nature. Notably, Development Southern Africa does not align strictly with these categories, but as a multidisciplinary journal emphasizing policy and practice in Southern Africa—a hub for modern slum tourism—it garners frequent citations.

Journal co-citation network.

After meticulously reviewing the 122 publications, we pinpointed the locations that are focal points for slum tourism research. As presented in Table 1 , South Africa, India, and Brazil emerge as the most extensively researched countries in this domain. They are closely followed by Kenya, Mexico, Colombia, Egypt, and Indonesia.

Township tourism in South Africa, deeply rooted in the country’s complex history, is a significant topic in slum tourism research. This form of tourism, which emerged in post-apartheid South Africa (Steinbrink, 2012 ), focuses on areas historically designated as “black only” zones, where disparities still exist (Iqani, 2016 ). Originating in Soweto, Johannesburg, it has since spread to other major cities. The 2010 FIFA World Cup, hosted by South Africa, notably boosted its popularity (Marschall, 2013 ). Today, Cape Town is a key destination for township tourism, with townships like Langa and Khayelitsha attracting tourists due to their historical significance (Rolfes, 2010 ).

Similar to South Africa, favela tourism in Brazil has political roots. These favelas, initially informal settlements for the formerly enslaved (Iqani, 2016 ), gained international attention after the 1992 Earth Summit, when delegates visited Rio de Janeiro’s favelas (Frenzel, 2012 ). Their prominence increased further during the 2014 FIFA World Cup and the 2016 Olympics (Steinbrink, 2013 ). Despite their cultural richness, favelas face challenges like crime and drug trafficking (Freire-Medeiros, 2009 ). Rio’s favelas, especially Rocinha and Santa Marta, attract numerous tourists each year (Frenzel and Blakeman, 2015 ).

In India, the scenario of slum tourism is notably different, with Mumbai’s Dharavi, one of the world’s largest informal settlement, being a key focus of India-specific studies. Other informal settlements in cities like Kolkata and Delhi have also attracted scholarly attention (Holst, 2015 ; Sen, 2008 ). These informal settlements are characterized by their micro-industries and recycling efforts, showcasing the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of the residents (Gupta, 2016 ). Although a relatively new trend compared to its counterparts, India’s slum tourism industry has burgeoned, spawning numerous tour operators (Frenzel and Blakeman, 2015 ).

Over time, slum tourism has gained traction, spreading to nations across the Global South, including Kenya, Colombia, Mexico, Egypt, and the Philippines. In our study, while most articles were location-specific, ten adopted a holistic approach, discussing the overarching theme of slum tourism.

Prominent areas of slum tourism research

We conducted a keyword co-occurrence analysis on our slum tourism research dataset to identify and visualize the most significant themes by examining the frequency and relationships of keywords. This method facilitated the identification of central research clusters and thematic hotspots within the topic. Figure 5 illustrates the network of keywords that frequently co-occur in slum tourism studies. To refine our data, we consolidated similar keywords, for example, pairing “township” with “townships” and “developing countries” with “developing world.” For this analysis, we set a threshold to include keywords that appeared at least three times, leading to the selection of 44 out of 322 keywords, thereby emphasizing their significance within the field. In the network, each node represents a keyword; larger nodes indicate higher frequencies of occurrence. Our analysis revealed six distinct clusters, each differentiated by a unique color.

Network visualization of the keywords co-occurrence.

The red cluster focuses on “slum tourism,” examining the development of tourism in informal settlements and its wide-ranging socio-economic impacts. This cluster covers aspects such as “branding” and the role of “tour guides,” and emphasizes key socio-economic factors including “residents’ perceptions” and “poverty alleviation.” Simultaneously, the green cluster, highlighting terms such as “township tourism” and “economic development,” shifts focus to the growth of local, often small-to-medium-sized, tourism businesses, particularly spotlighting township tourism in South Africa. Meanwhile, the light blue cluster examines the impact of slum tourism on local communities, with a special focus on “community-based tourism” and favela tourism in Brazil. The yellow cluster delves into the portrayal of poverty as a key draw in slum tourism, questioning its classification as “poverty tourism” and exploring the shift towards more ethical, “pro-poor,” and responsible tourism practices. Concurrently, the purple cluster critically examines the portrayal and perception of poverty in slum tourism, focusing on tourist perspectives influenced by the “tourist gaze” and social media. Lastly, the dark blue cluster analyzes how globalization and rising consumer culture have spurred the growth of slum tourism, integrating themes like “globalization,” “space,” and “consumption,” and underscoring poverty’s central role in this phenomenon.

In our thematic analysis of publications, we integrated clusters with similar themes. The red, green, yellow, and light blue clusters, which focus on the socio-economic impacts of slum tourism on local communities, were merged. The red and dark blue clusters, addressing the transformation of urban informal settlements into tourist destinations and their driving factors, were also combined into a single theme. Furthermore, the purple and yellow clusters, centered on the portrayal and perception of poverty in slum tourism, were grouped together. Our review systematically examines these unified themes, as illustrated in Table 2 .

Touristic transformation of urban informal settlements

The transformation of urban informal settlements into tourist destinations has been extensively discussed in earlier literature on slum tourism. This transformation hinges significantly on cultural and historical heritage. As previously mentioned, Brazil’s favelas and South Africa’s townships attracted visitors with political and cultural interests (Frenzel, 2012 ; Steinbrink, 2012 ). Gradually, with the globalization that stimulated global mobility and the rise of consumer culture, these locales became spaces of interaction, juxtaposing mobility and immobility on a global scale (Dürr, 2012a ). As many informal settlements in the Global South were represented in global media, they gained increasing touristic attention. For instance, after the success of the film “The City of God” in 2003, the number of foreign visitors to favelas in Rio grew significantly (Freire-Medeiros, 2011 ). As Freire-Medeiros ( 2009 , p. 582) mentioned in another article that tours in these informal settlements “are equally indebted to the phenomenon of circulation and consumption, at a global level, of the favela as a trademark.”

In the touristic transformation of informal settlements, policy plays a pivotal role. For instance, local governments in South Africa actively encouraged township tourism by creating museums, developing historical and political heritage sites, and promoting township upgrading programs (Booyens, 2010 ; Booyens and Rogerson, 2019b ; Marschall, 2013 ). In Brazil, favela tourism served as a means to enhance its image in the context of preparations for mega-events in Rio, a strategy dubbed “Festifavelasation” (Steinbrink, 2013 ). South Africa pursued a similar path after securing the 2010 FIFA World Cup (Marschall, 2013 ). In Colombia, a policy known as “social urbanism” led Medellin, previously known for its drug barons and criminal activities, to undergo social and economic transformation, attracting both interest and tourists (Hernandez‐Garcia, 2013 ).

In analyzing our dataset’s articles, it is evident that slum tours primarily occur in well-known informal settlements of the Global South, such as Mumbai’s Dharavi, Rio de Janeiro’s Rocinha, and Johannesburg’s Soweto. These locations are preferred due to the factors previously mentioned. However, this growing industry often overlooks numerous lesser-known and more impoverished communities (Koens, 2012 ). Issues such as insufficient infrastructure, the absence of tourist attractions, and poor security hinder the growth of tourism in informal urban settlements. This situation is clearly seen in areas like Harare, Zimbabwe (Mukoroverwa and Chiutsi, 2018 ), and certain townships in Durban, South Africa (Chili, 2015 ).

A significant barrier is also the lack of awareness of pro-poor tourism in these lesser-known areas. Munyanyiwa et al.’s ( 2014 ) research in Harare’s townships revealed that many residents were unaware of township tourism, compounded by insufficient infrastructure and community involvement to support it. Moreover, residents were unsure of how to benefit from such initiatives, with historical tourism activities largely unknown to them. Similarly, Attaalla’s ( 2016 ) study in Egypt highlighted the minimal awareness of pro-poor tourism, the absence of a comprehensive government policy to develop this tourism type, and the scarcity of specialized Egyptian tour operators and travel agencies in the pro-poor tourism market. For successful tourism in these areas, it’s vital to enhance infrastructure, safety, and offer innovative tourism experiences (Mukoroverwa and Chiutsi, 2018 ). Additionally, improved information dissemination and increased stakeholder engagement are essential (Munyanyiwa et al. 2014 ).

The transition of informal settlements into tourist destinations brings several challenges. Notably, the commercialization of these marginalized areas can aestheticize deprivation and social inequality, turning them into themed spaces that reinforce stereotypes and maintain informal settlements as attractions shaped by tourist expectations (e.g. Altamirano, 2022b ; Dürr, 2012a ). Building on this point, Dürr et al. ( 2020 ) highlighted that marketing urban poverty and violence as a city brand could exacerbate existing inequalities. Research also shows that in many touristic informal settlements, local residents often do not fully engage with or benefit from tourism (Koens and Thomas, 2015 ; Marschall, 2013 ). Furthermore, public policies aimed at transforming these settlements sometimes lack consistency, creating insecurity among locals (Altamirano, 2022b ). Addressing these issues requires enhanced policies and increased community involvement in tourism, posing significant challenges for local governments.

Valorization and representation of urban poverty

In 2010, the term “poverty tourism” was recognized in slum tourism research, casting a spotlight on the intricate connection between poverty and this type of tourism (Rolfes, 2010 ). This tourism variant is not without controversy, interrogating the confluence of poverty, power, and ethical dilemmas (see Chhabra and Chowdhury, 2012 ; Korstanje, 2016 ; Outterson et al. 2011 ). This dynamic between the commodification of impoverished settlements and their portrayal within the tourism spectrum has ignited fervent academic debate.

Frenzel ( 2014 ) critically observed that within the paradigm of slum tourism, poverty transcends its role as a mere backdrop, ascending to the primary spectacle. Consequently, this leads to the commodification of urban impoverishment, turning it into a tourism commodity with tangible monetary value (Rolfes, 2010 ). Scholars have extensively dissected this juxtaposition. While some examine the framing, representation, and marketing dimensions (Dürr et al. 2020 ; Meschkank, 2011 ; Rolfes, 2010 ), others argued that poverty becomes romanticized, perceived more as a cultural artifact rather than an urgent societal issue (Crossley, 2012 ; Huysamen et al. 2020 ; Nisbett, 2017 ).

In this tapestry, both tourists and tour operators play pivotal roles in framing the narrative. Operators, tapping into the tourists’ quest for the “authenticity” embedded in the narratives of global urbanization, exert significant influence in shaping perceptions (Meschkank, 2012 ; Rolfes, 2010 ). Studies have observed that in an attempt to counteract the inherently negative perceptions surrounding informal settlements (Dyson, 2012 ), operators often position these spaces as beacons of hope, underlining the tenacity, optimism, and aspirations of the residents (Crossley, 2012 ; Dürr et al. 2020 ; Huysamen et al. 2020 ; Meschkank, 2011 ). Moreover, to navigate the moral complexities that tourists might grapple with, operators design their offerings as ethical enterprises, promising both enlightenment for the tourists and tangible economic upliftment for the communities (Muldoon and Mair, 2016 ; Nisbett, 2017 ).

However, such strategies face intellectual scrutiny for their potential to obfuscate the palpable suffering that underpins these urban landscapes. Several studies affirm that poverty dominates the observational narratives across tours in global cities from Mumbai to Rio de Janeiro (Crossley, 2012 ; Dürr et al. 2020 ; Meschkank, 2012 ). As Clini and Valančiūnas ( 2023 ) observed, such sanitized representations, while better than negative stereotypes, could unintentionally normalize the systemic inequalities associated with poverty. This approach not only risks reducing the perceived need for urgent poverty alleviation efforts but also may leave existing societal inequalities unchallenged. This has prompted critiques that label the phenomenon as commercial “voyeurism, and exploitation for commercial ends” (Burgold and Rolfes, 2013 , p. 162).

For tourists, their motivation often orbits around the pursuit of “authenticity” when they consider visiting informal settlements (see Clini and Valančiūnas, 2023 ; Crossley, 2012 ; Gupta, 2016 ; Meschkank, 2011 ; Steinbrink, 2012 ). Marketed as unvarnished encounters with reality, informal settlements are often depicted as bastions of culture, diversity, and authenticity (Frenzel et al. 2015 ). This category of slum tourism is, thus, situated within the broader realm of “reality tourism,” promising participatory experiences in socio-economically challenged urban landscapes (Wise et al. 2019 ). However, this approach, despite aligning with general tourism patterns, is not devoid of problems. The very essence of this touristic venture, which is to experience urban impoverishment, inherently establishes an imbalanced dynamic between tourists and inhabitants, leading to its characterization as a form of voyeurism. (Dürr et al. 2020 ; Meschkank, 2011 ).

In the last decade, slum tourism has diversified with new tours offered by locals and NGOs, aiming to challenge stereotypes and present a more complex picture of informal settlements. Frenzel ( 2014 ) noted that guides can empower communities by focusing on often-ignored aspects of these areas. While motivations vary, with some guides driven by profit and others by community welfare and resisting gentrification effects, the role of guides is crucial. Angelini’s ( 2020 ) examination of favela tours accentuated the nuanced challenges faced by these guides, as they attempt to strike a balance between authentic representation and the commodification of their environments. Further, Dürr et al. ( 2021 ) in their ethnographic study in Mexico City’s Tepito, showed how guides can positively portray deprived areas without depoliticizing them, contextualizing local achievements within city politics and using historical narratives to emphasize the area’s significance.

In the digital era, social media significantly influences the slum tourism narrative (Sarrica et al. 2021 ). The Internet is vital for operators to market and sell tours and provide information to potential travelers (Privitera, 2015 ). Many studies have analyzed slum tourism portrayals in online reviews and media, exploring how these areas and experiences are represented (Huysamen et al. 2020 ; Nisbett, 2017 ; Sarrica et al. 2021 ; Shang et al. 2022 ; Wise et al. 2019 ). For instance, Nisbett ( 2017 ) highlighted concerns about reviews that often gloss over poverty’s complexities, focusing instead on the tours’ economic aspects. Similarly, Huysamen et al. ( 2020 ) observed that tourist narratives tend to paint these areas as “slums of hope,” ignoring the disparity between wealthy tourists and impoverished locals. Ekdale and Tuwei ( 2016 ) studied texts from Kibera visitors, noting that while tourists claim to gain authentic understanding of global inequality, their privileged perspective remains unexamined. These “ironic encounters” often reinforce global inequalities, serving more as self-validation for tourists than a true engagement with local challenges.

On the flip side, social media’s role in depicting informal settlements is not always reductive. Some academics posit that these platforms can provide a counter-narrative to skewed representations by offering avenues to disseminate a diverse array of authentic stories and perspectives (Sarrica et al. 2021 ). Crucially, social media can amplify local residents’ voices, allowing them to share concerns about slum tourism, including privacy, potential exploitation, and daily life disruptions (Crapolicchio et al. 2022 ). The digital era thus presents both opportunities and challenges for slum tourism, underscoring the need for ethical and respectful interactions that honor and authentically represent these communities’ narratives.

Social and economic impact of slum tourism to local communities

The economic and social impacts of tourism in these informal settlements are prominent themes in slum tourism research. Across various countries, including Egypt, South Africa, Brazil, and Indonesia, tourism has spurred urban development and improved living conditions in informal settlements (Anyumba, 2017 ; Booyens and Rogerson, 2019a ; Mekawy, 2012 ; Sulistyaningsih et al. 2022 ; Torres, 2012 ). Developments like aerial cable cars in Brazil’s favelas and minibus-taxis in South African townships have evolved local transportation systems (Freire-Medeiros and Name, 2017 ; Rietjens et al. 2006 ). These advancements facilitate social transformation, such as increased security investments in Brazilian favelas (Freire-Medeiros et al. 2013 ) and “social urbanism” in Colombian barrios, integrating marginalized communities and improving education and security (Hernandez‐Garcia, 2013 ). A comparative study of the touristification of Gamcheon Culture Village (Busan, South Korea) and Comuna 13 (Medellin, Colombia) highlighted that effective governance can create community networks and stakeholder partnerships, fostering entrepreneurial opportunities (Escalona and Oh, 2022 ).

Tourism holds potential as a means to reduce poverty by creating employment opportunities in impoverished urban areas (Aseye and Opoku, 2015 ; Cardoso et al. 2022 ; Paul, 2016 ). Slum tourism, in particular, fosters entrepreneurship, allowing residents to start their own tour companies or bed and breakfasts. However, challenges for local entrepreneurs include limited market access, stiff competition, low marketing budgets, poor business locations, and lack of support from established firms, often leading to the marginalization of smaller operators in a market dominated by larger companies (see Chili, 2018 ; Hikido, 2018 ; Mokoena and Liambo, 2023 ; Mtshali et al. 2017 ; Nemasetoni and Rogerson, 2005 ). Further, small business owners frequently lack essential education and marketing skills (see Leonard and Dladla, 2020 ; Letuka and Lebambo, 2022 ; Rogerson, 2004 ). Mokoena and Liambo ( 2023 ) observed that only a minority of entrepreneurs adopt competitive strategies in their businesses.

Scholars have also observed that the profits from slum tourism are insufficient for significant poverty alleviation (Freire-Medeiros, 2009 , 2012 ). Koen and Thomas’ study of South Africa townships ( 2015 ) highlighted the challenge to the idea that small business owners reinvest their profits locally for economic development. Successful entrepreneurs often leave their townships due to a lack of local ties, leading to economic benefits being concentrated among a small, predominantly male, privileged group, while marginalized groups’ businesses yield lower gains. Moreover, most slum tour companies depend heavily on foreign support, resulting in substantial economic leakage (Frenzel and Blakeman, 2015 ; Meschkank, 2012 ; Rolfes, 2010 ).

The social implications of slum tourism form a major focus in recent academic studies, particularly regarding how local residents perceive this tourism form. Surveys and interviews with inhabitants of informal settlements have uncovered a range of reactions, including positive, negative, skeptical, and indifferent attitudes toward slum tourism (Amo et al. 2019 ; Auala et al. 2019 ; Freire-Medeiros, 2012 ; Marschall, 2013 ; Slikker and Koens, 2015 ).

In Rio, Mumbai, and Nairobi, some studies reveal that residents feel embarrassed by slum tourism, as certain operators emphasize negative community aspects to cater to tourists seeking “real” poverty experiences, leading to privacy issues (Freire-Medeiros, 2012 ; Kieti and Magio, 2013 ; Slikker and Koens, 2015 ). Conversely, slum tourism is also viewed positively in many areas. Slikker and Koens’ ( 2015 ) study in Mumbai and Amo et al. ( 2019 ) research in Medellin found residents believe it counters negative stereotypes and raises community visibility. In Nairobi and Cape Town, locals welcome it as a source of income and jobs (Chege and Mwisukha, 2013 ; Potgieter et al. 2019 ). Additionally, Muldoon et al.’s South African studies suggest slum tourism empowers residents by bringing international attention to townships, giving them more control over their narratives and a sense of importance (Muldoon, 2020 ; Muldoon and Mair, 2022 ).

Indeed, the social impact of tourism is dualistic. As Altamirano ( 2022a ) pointed out, while tourism can establish new material and symbolic frameworks, providing residents with chances for counter-hegemonic actions, it does not uniformly support the cultural empowerment of impoverished communities. Instead, it can result in neoliberal development and increased surveillance. This underscores the necessity for thoughtful policymaking in slum tourism, advocating for policies that prioritize the well-being and cultural richness of communities over mere profit generation, particularly in environments marked by urban disparities and complex power dynamics.

Booyens and Rogerson ( 2019 b) suggested that slum tourism ought to function as a type of “creative tourism,” fostering solidarity and mutual understanding between tourists and local residents, stimulating economic growth in communities, and increasing awareness of the North-South disparity in the postcolonial context. The transition to pro-poor tourism heavily relies on effective policy implementation. Therefore, numerous scholars have advocated for policy instruments to enhance safety and infrastructure, and to facilitate effective coordination among various stakeholders, alongside strengthening institutional frameworks (e.g. Aseye and Opoku, 2015 ; Booyens, 2010 ; Chege and Mwisukha, 2013 ; Rusata et al. 2023 ).

Furthermore, the success of slum tourism largely depends on local community engagement (Duarte and Peters, 2012 ). Yet, in many cases, such as in India (Slikker and Koens, 2015 ), Kenya (Kieti and Magio, 2013 ), Brazil (Freire-Medeiros, 2012 ), and elsewhere, local residents’ participation is limited. Various factors contribute to this, including inadequate business knowledge and skills, and social and financial barriers (Dzikiti and Leonard, 2016 ; Hammad, 2021 ; Leonard and Dladla, 2020 ). Addressing this, researchers emphasize the need for tourism-specific training and resources for local entrepreneurs, particularly focusing on youth (Dzikiti and Leonard, 2016 ; Mbane and Ezeuduji, 2022 ; Nkemngu, 2014 ). To leverage slum tourism for community development, equipping locals with the skills and tools for effective tourism participation is crucial, though it remains a challenging goal.

Conclusion and future research agenda

Over the past two decades, “slum tourism” and its academic study have expanded significantly. Our systematic review of 122 peer-reviewed journal articles sheds light on key authors and journals in this field. The most cited journals typically specialize in tourism studies or geography/urban studies, underscoring the blend of travel motivations and urban complexities in slum tourism. Our findings show that South Africa, India, and Brazil are the most researched countries, with others like Kenya, Mexico, Colombia, Egypt, and Indonesia also being significant. The keyword co-occurrence analysis identified three primary research areas: the touristic transformation of urban informal settlements, the portrayal and valorization of urban poverty, and the socio-economic impacts of slum tourism. This study not only outlines the scope of current research but also points out gaps, suggesting that the economic, social, and cultural effects of slum tourism warrant further exploration in future studies.

The economic aspects of slum tourism, widely debated in academic circles, pose unanswered questions about the actual financial benefits for local residents and communities. Frenzel and Koens ( 2012 ) noted a lack of quantitative evaluations, leaving the impact of slum tours on poverty reduction and urban development uncertain. Existing research, primarily qualitative involving interviews, ethnography, media content analysis, and stakeholder surveys, fails to adequately measure the economic impact on informal settlements. Although studies like those by Chege and Mwisukha ( 2013 ) and Potgieter et al. ( 2019 ) indicated resident perceptions of slum tourism as a source of income and employment, these lack concrete statistical backing. The financial dynamics of slum tourism, including the economic leakage stemming from reliance on external and foreign support (Frenzel and Blakeman, 2015 ; Meschkank, 2012 ; Rolfes, 2010 ), warrant more in-depth investigation. Future research should focus on tracing profit distribution in slum tourism and assessing its real effects on the communities, considering the prominent role of local guides and their relationships with tour operators.

The intangible impacts of slum tourism, including social, political, and cultural aspects, are a fertile area for future research. Shifting focus to local residents’ views, recent studies have shown slum tourism’s broad influence beyond just economic factors, notably in changing perceptions of poverty. However, as Koens ( 2012 ) pointed out, evaluating these impacts is complex due to the deep social and historical contexts within these communities. Advocates for authentic local engagement, like Slikker and Koens ( 2015 ) and Freire-Medeiros ( 2012 ), emphasized the importance of giving local residents a voice. Muldoon’s research ( 2020 ; Muldoon and Mair, 2022 ) in South Africa demonstrates how township tourism allows locals to redefine their identities and interactions with tourists. On the other hand, Freire-Medeiros ( 2012 ) noted in Brazil’s Rocinha the possibility of residents altering narratives for tourist appeal. This highlights the need to integrate the genuine experiences of locals into slum tourism research to fully grasp its diverse impacts.

The potential for slum tourism to either reinforce or challenge existing power dynamics and stereotypes represents a dynamic area of ongoing debate, ripe for further theoretical exploration. Slum tourism is emblematic of neoliberal capitalist practices, where the lived experiences of marginalized communities are commodified and consumed predominantly by Western tourists. This pattern aligns with David Harvey’s concept of “accumulation by dispossession,” where the exploitation and aestheticization of poverty serve to reinforce global economic disparities (Harvey, 2003 ). By transforming informal settlements into tourist attractions, slum tourism becomes a mechanism of cultural commodification, packaging poverty-stricken environments for sale and perpetuating a global hierarchy that privileges affluent tourists while marginalizing local residents.

The representation of informal settlements within this tourism framework often involves selective storytelling, echoing Edward Said’s notion of “Orientalism.” This process portrays the “Other” in ways that reinforce Western superiority and exoticize non-Western realities, contributing to the perpetuation of stereotypes and obscuring the systemic causes of poverty (Said, 2003 ). Such portrayals often sanitize the harsh realities of poverty, presenting informal settlements as exotic and intriguing destinations, thus skewing the understanding of global inequalities and framing poverty more as a cultural artifact than an urgent social issue.

Conversely, slum tourism holds potential to challenge and subvert these entrenched power dynamics and stereotypes. When approached through the lens of ethical representation, it becomes a platform that amplifies marginalized voices and promotes more equitable narratives. This approach is deeply rooted in theories of participatory development and empowerment, which argue that local communities should be active agents in shaping their own narratives, rather than passive subjects (Dürr et al. 2021 ; Frenzel, 2014 ). Employing local guides and focusing on authentic narratives that highlight both the challenges and resilience of informal settlement residents can provide a counter-narrative to dominant discourses, promoting a more nuanced and respectful understanding of these communities.

The role of social media in slum tourism highlights the significance of digital globalization in shaping narratives. Social media platforms provide avenues for local residents to share their perspectives, thereby democratizing the discourse and challenging stereotypical representations (Sarrica et al. 2021 ). This aligns with the ethics of representation, advocating for portrayals that respect the dignity and agency of marginalized communities (Crapolicchio et al. 2022 ). By enabling a more participatory and inclusive approach, social media can help mitigate the voyeuristic tendencies of slum tourism and foster a more ethical engagement with these communities.

Another prominent takeaway from this systematic literature review is the observation that the practice, perception, and success of slum tourism vary significantly across different cultural and geographical contexts. In Brazil, for instance, the favelas of Rio de Janeiro have been transformed into tourist destinations, influenced not only by their portrayal in internationally acclaimed films but also by the mega-events hosted in the city. This phenomenon has led to a form of tourism that often celebrates the cultural vibrancy of these areas, despite underlying issues of poverty and inequality. Conversely, in India, Mumbai’s Dharavi is marketed as a hub of entrepreneurship and industry, attracting tourists more interested in the economic dynamics of informal settlement life than in cultural spectacle alone. These differences illustrate how local contexts shape the thematic emphasis of slum tours.

However, the ability to develop slum or pro-poor tourism is not uniformly distributed. Many areas lack the necessary infrastructure, adequate security, or appealing tourist attractions, which impedes their ability to attract and sustain tourism. For instance, some townships in Durban, South Africa, and informal settlements in Harare, Zimbabwe, contend with issues such as poor security and insufficient infrastructure, making them less appealing to tourists and challenging to market as destinations (Chili, 2015 ; Mukoroverwa and Chiutsi, 2018 ). This disparity highlights the uneven impacts of global tourism trends on local communities and points to the necessity for ethical and sustainable tourism practices in urban settings marked by significant socio-economic divides.

To enhance our understanding of slum tourism dynamics and to devise more effective interventions, it is crucial to undertake further comparative studies. These studies should delve into why certain areas are successful in developing tourism that benefits local communities while others falter, considering both global influences and local conditions. Such research is imperative for uncovering the potential of tourism as a tool for social and economic improvement in marginalized urban areas and contributes significantly to the broader discourse on globalization, urban inequality, and sustainable development.

In this vein, a pivotal area for future research is transforming “slum tourism” into a form of responsible tourism that transcends the poverty-centric narrative often associated with terms like “slum,” “township,” and “favela” (Burgold and Rolfes, 2013 ; Rolfes, 2010 ; Steinbrink et al. 2012 ). While it is valuable to highlight the cultural and historical aspects of these communities, such portrayals frequently overlook the entrenched structural inequality and violence that pervade these areas. Furthermore, tourism often concentrates only on well-known locations, ignoring the most impoverished and lesser-known settlements, thus raising questions about the applicability of sustainable development strategies in these marginalized areas (Frenzel, 2013 ). It is essential that future research explores how slum tourism can truly benefit residents and address broader socio-economic challenges, ensuring it evolves into a form of responsible tourism.

This shift towards responsible slum tourism necessitates a comprehensive emphasis on ethical considerations, community involvement, and sustainable economic benefits for local residents. Ethical considerations must encompass respect for the dignity and agency of the communities involved, eschewing exploitative practices that commodify poverty for tourist consumption. Community involvement is imperative, as it enables residents to influence how their neighborhoods are portrayed and ensure their central participation in both managing and benefiting from tourism initiatives. This might include training local guides, engaging residents in creating tour content, and allocating a substantial share of tourism revenues back into the community.

Furthermore, ensuring sustainable economic benefits for residents is fundamental to responsible slum tourism. This involves fostering tourism that generates reliable income opportunities for locals, such as through establishing small businesses or cooperative ventures tailored to the tourism industry. Potential enterprises could include local eateries, souvenir shops, and accommodation services, all managed and operated by community members. Investment in infrastructure improvements that support tourism activities and simultaneously enhance resident quality of life is also crucial. Additionally, it is essential to implement mechanisms to track the flow of financial benefits to ensure that the revenue generated by tourism is indeed benefiting the local communities as intended.

The data collection for this study, completed in August 2023, revealed a notable gap: the lack of research on the impact of the COVID pandemic on slum tourism, despite the pandemic lasting three years. The pandemic has disproportionately affected informal settlement dwellers, as evidenced by Seddiky et al. ( 2023 ). For instance, Bangkok’s informal settlement residents have suffered significant economic hardships (Pongutta et al. 2021 ), and containment measures have led to widespread business closures, impacting low-income, daily wage earners in impoverished communities (Solymári et al. 2022 ). This absence of academic focus on COVID’s specific impact on slum tourism marks a limitation in current literature. The pandemic’s disruption of travel presents an opportunity to reassess and develop more sustainable tourism practices that could benefit residents in impoverished areas.

Additionally, this study’s focus on slum tourism in the Global South overlooks the re-emerging field of slum or poverty tourism in the Global North. For instance, Burgold ( 2014 ) explored guided walking tours in Berlin-Neukölln, an area known for poverty and social issues, contrasting them with traditional tourism and highlighting their role in changing perceptions and aiding local residents’ societal integration. Similarly, “homeless experience” tours in cities like Toronto, London, Amsterdam, and Seattle offer insights into the lives of homeless individuals (Haven Toronto, 2018 ; Kassam, 2013 ). These tours, as controversial in the Global North as in the South, raise ethical concerns about commodifying poverty. Proponents see them as empathy-building, while critics view them as exploitative. The dynamics of poverty tours vary between developed and less developed countries, presenting a potential area for future comparative research.

“Slum tourism,” a relatively new research field, reflects the complexities of rapid urbanization and the North-South power dynamics in a globalized era. The current study offers a comprehensive, longitudinal perspective on slum tourism research, charting future directions for scholarly inquiry. It also provides valuable insights for practitioners to reassess the role of tourism in poverty alleviation within urban informal settlements in the Global South. For public policy, this research is instrumental in shaping strategies for urban development, poverty alleviation, and sustainable tourism, advocating for the integration of informal settlements into wider economic frameworks. Academically, it enriches the existing body of knowledge, spurring interdisciplinary research and delving into lesser-explored aspects of slum tourism. Additionally, by shedding light on the effects of tourism in these communities, the study promotes more informed, respectful, and responsible tourist behavior, encouraging travelers to adopt a more empathetic and culturally sensitive approach.

Data availability

The data supporting the findings of this study are available in an uploaded CSV file.

Altamirano ME (2022a) Legitimizing discourses within favela tourism. Tour Geogr 25(7):1–18

Google Scholar  

Altamirano ME (2022b) Overcoming urban frontiers: Ordering Favela tourism actor-networks. Tour Stud 22(2):200–222

Article   Google Scholar  

Amo MDH, Jayawardena CC, Gaultier SL (2019) What is the host community perception of slum tourism in Colombia? Worldw Hosp Tour Themes 11(2):140–146

Angelini A (2020) A Favela that yields fruit: community-based tour guides as brokers in the political economy of cultural difference. Space Cult 23(1):15–33

Article   ADS   Google Scholar  

Anyumba G (2017) Planning for a Township Tourism destination: Considering red flags from experiences in Atteridgeville, South Africa. Afr J Hosp Tour Leis 6(2):1–22

Aseye FK, Opoku M (2015) Potential of slum tourism in urban Ghana: A case study of Old Fadama (Sodom and Gomorra) slum in Accra. J Soc Dev Sci 6(1):39–45

Attaalla FAH (2016) Pro-poor tourism as a panacea for slums in Egypt. Int J Tour Hosp Rev 3(1):30–44

Auala LSN, van Zyl SR, Ferreira IW (2019) Township tourism as an agent for the socio-economic well-being of residents. African Journal of Hospitality . Tour Leis 8(2):1–11

Baffoe G, Kintrea K (2023) Neighbourhood research in the Global South: What do we know so far? Cities 132:104077

Booyens I (2010) Rethinking township tourism: Towards responsible tourism development in South African townships. Dev South Afr 27(2):273–287

Booyens I, Rogerson C (2019a) Creative tourism: South African township explorations. Tour Rev 74(2):256–267

Booyens I, Rogerson C (2019b) Re-creating slum tourism: Perspectives from South Africa. Urban Izziv 30(supple):52–63

Burgold J (2014) Slumming the Global North? Überlegungen zur organisierten Besichtigung gesellschaftlicher Problemlagen in den Metropolen des Globalen Nordens. Z F ür Tour 6(2):273–280

Burgold J, Rolfes M (2013) Of voyeuristic safari tours and responsible tourism with educational value: Observing moral communication in slum and township tourism in Cape Town and Mumbai. Erde 144(2):161–174

Cardoso A, da Silva A, Pereira MS, Sinha N, Figueiredo J, Oliveira I (2022) Attitudes towards slum tourism in Mumbai, India: analysis of positive and negative impacts. Sustainability 14(17):10801

Chege PW, Mwisukha A (2013) Benefits of slum tourism in Kibera slum in Nairobi, Kenya. Int J Arts Commer 2(4):94–102

Chhabra D, Chowdhury A (2012) Slum tourism: Ethical or voyeuristic. Tour Rev Int 16(1):69–73

Chili NS (2015) Township Tourism: The politics and socio-economic dynamics of tourism in the South African township: Umlazi, Durban. J Econ Behav Stud 7(4):14–21

Chili NS (2018) Constrictions of emerging tourism entrepreneurship in the townships of South Africa. Afr J Hosp Tour Leis 7(4):1–10

Clini C, Valančiūnas D (2023) Bollywood and slum tours: poverty tourism and the Indian cultural industry. Cult Trends 32(4):366–382

Crapolicchio E, Sarrica M, Rega I, Norton LS, Vezzali L (2022) Social representations and images of slum tourism: Effects on stereotyping. Int J Intercult Relat 90:97–107

Crossley É (2012) Poor but Happy: Volunteer Tourists’ Encounters with Poverty. Tour Geogr 14(2):235–253

Davis M (2006) Planet of Slums. Verso

De Bellis N (2009) Bibliometrics and citation analysis: from the science citation index to cybermetrics. Scarecrow Press

Denyer D Tranfield D (2009) Producing a systematic review. In D Buchanan & A Bryman (Eds.), The Sage handbook of organizational research methods (pp. 671–689). Sage Publications Ltd

Duarte R, Peters K (2012) Exploring the other side of Favela tourism. an insight into the residents’ view. Rev Tur Desenvolv 2(17/18):1123–1131

Dürr E (2012a) Encounters over garbage: Tourists and lifestyle migrants in Mexico. Tour Geogr 14(2):339–355

Dürr E (2012b) Urban poverty, spatial representation and mobility: Touring a slum in Mexico. Int J Urban Reg Res 36(4):706–724

Dürr E, Acosta R, Vodopivec B (2021) Recasting urban imaginaries: politicized temporalities and the touristification of a notorious Mexico City barrio. Int J Tour Cities 7(3):783–798

Dürr E, Jaffe R, Jones GA (2020) Brokers and tours: selling urban poverty and violence in Latin America and the Caribbean. Space Cult 23(1):4–14

Dyson P (2012) Slum tourism: representing and interpreting “Reality” in Dharavi, Mumbai. Tour Geog 14(2):254–274

Dzikiti LG, Leonard L (2016) Barriers towards African youth participation in domestic tourism in post-apartheid South Africa: The case of Alexandra Township, Johannesburg. Afr J HospTour Leis 5(3):1–17

Ekdale B, Tuwei D (2016) Ironic encounters: Posthumanitarian storytelling in slum tourist media. Commun Cult Crit 9(1):49–67

Escalona M, Oh D (2022) Efficacy of Governance in Sustainable Slum Regeneration: Assessment framework for effective governance in sustainable slum tourism regeneration. Rev de Urban 46:131–151

Freire-Medeiros B (2007) Selling the favela: thoughts and polemics about a tourist destination. Rev Bras Ciências Soc 22(65):61–72

Freire-Medeiros B (2009) The favela and its touristic transits. Geoforum 40(4):580–588

Freire-Medeiros B (2011) I went to the city of god’: Gringos, guns and the touristic favela. J Lat Am Cultural Stud 20(1):21–34

Freire-Medeiros B (2012) Favela tourism: Listening to local voices. In F Frenzel, K Koens, & M Steinbrink (Eds.), Slum Tourism: Poverty, Power and Ethics (pp. 175–192). Routledge

Freire-Medeiros B, Name L (2017) Does the future of the favela fit in an aerial cable car? Examining tourism mobilities and urban inequalities through a decolonial lens. Can J Lat Am Caribb Stud 42(1):1–16

Freire-Medeiros B, Vilarouca MG, Menezes P (2013) International tourists in a “pacified” favela: Profiles and attitudes. the case of santa marta. Rio de Jan Erde 144(2):147–159

Frenzel F (2012) Beyond ‘Othering’: The political roots of slum tourism. In F Frenzel, K Koens, & M Steinbrink (Eds.), Slum Tourism: Poverty, Power and Ethics (pp. 32–49). Routledge

Frenzel F (2013) Slum tourism in the context of the tourism and poverty (relief) debate. DIE ERDE – J Geogr Soc Berl 144(2):117–128

Frenzel F (2014) Slum Tourism and Urban Regeneration: Touring Inner Johannesburg. Urban Forum 25(4):431–447

Frenzel, F (2016). Slumming it: The tourist valorization of urban poverty. Zed Books Ltd

Frenzel F (2017) Tourist agency as valorisation: Making Dharavi into a tourist attraction. Ann Tour Res 66:159–169

Frenzel F (2018) On the question of using the concept ‘Slum Tourism’ for urban tourism in stigmatised neighbourhoods in Inner City Johannesburg. Urban Forum 29(1):51–62

Frenzel F, Blakeman S (2015) Making slums into attractions: The role of tour guiding in the slum tourism development in Kibera and Dharavi. Tour Rev Int 19(1–2):87–100

Frenzel F, Koens K (2012) Slum tourism: developments in a young field of interdisciplinary tourism research. Tour Geogr 14(2):195–212

Frenzel F, Koens K, Steinbrink M, Rogerson CM (2015) Slum tourism: State of the art. Tour Rev Int 18(4):237–252

Gilbert A (2007) The return of the slum: does language matter? Int J Urban Reg Res 31(4):697–713

Gupta V (2016) Indian reality tourism-a critical perspective. Tour Hosp Manag 22(2):111–133

Haddaway NR, Woodcock P, Macura B, Collins A (2015) Making literature reviews more reliable through application of lessons from systematic reviews. Conserv Biol 29(6):1596–1605

Article   PubMed   Google Scholar  

Hajek P, Youssef A, Hajkova V (2022) Recent developments in smart city assessment: A bibliometric and content analysis-based literature review. Cities 126:103709

Hammad AA (2021) Exploring the Role of Slum Tourism in Developing Slums in Egypt. J Assoc Arab Univ Tour Hosp 20(1):58–77

Harvey D (2003) The New Imperialism . Oxford University Press

Haven Toronto (2018) Poverty tourism: Take a homeless holiday . Haven Toronto

Hernandez‐Garcia J (2013) Slum tourism, city branding and social urbanism: the case of Medellin, Colombia. J Place Manag Dev 6(1):43–51

Hikido A (2018) Entrepreneurship in South African township tourism: The impact of interracial social capital. Ethn Racial Stud 41(14):2580–2598

Holst T (2015) Touring the Demolished Slum? Slum Tourism in the Face of Delhi’s Gentrification. Tour Rev Int 18(4):283–294

Article   MathSciNet   Google Scholar  

Huysamen M, Barnett J, Fraser DS (2020) Slums of hope: Sanitising silences within township tour reviews. Geoforum 110(March)):87–96

Iqani M (2016) Slum tourism and the consumption of poverty in TripAdvisor reviews: The cases of Langa, Dharavi and Santa Marta. In Consumption, media and the global south: Aspiration contested (pp. 51–86). Springer

Jones GA, Sanyal R (2015) Spectacle and suffering: The Mumbai slum as a worlded space. Geoforum 65:431–439

Kaplan L (2004) Skills development for tourism in Alexandra township, Johannesburg. Urban Forum 15(4):380–398

Kassam A (2013) Poorism, the new tourism . Maclean’s

Kieti DM, Magio KO (2013) The ethical and local resident perspectives of slum tourism in Kenya. Adv Hosp Tour Res (AHTR) 1(1):37–57

Koens K (2012) Competition, cooperation and collaboration: business relations and power in township tourism. In F Frenzel, K Koens, & M Steinbrink (Eds.), Slum tourism (pp. 101–118). Routledge

Koens K, Thomas R (2015) Is small beautiful? Understanding the contribution of small businesses in township tourism to economic development. Dev South Afr 32(3):320–332

Koens K, Thomas R (2016) “You know that’s a rip-off”: policies and practices surrounding micro-enterprises and poverty alleviation in South African township tourism. J Sustain Tour 24(12):1641–1654

Korstanje ME (2016) The ethical borders of slum tourism in the mobile capitalism: A conceptual discussion. Rev de Tur -Stud Si Cercetari Tur 21:22–32

Leonard L, Dladla A (2020) Obstacles to and suggestions for successful township tourism in Alexandra township. South Africa . e-Rev Tour Res (ERTR) 17(6):900–920

Letuka P, Lebambo M (2022) A typology of challenges facing township micro-tour operators in Soweto, South Africa. Afr J Sci, Technol, Innov Dev 14(7):1829–1838

Marschall S (2013) Woza eNanda: perceptions of and attitudes towards heritage and tourism in a South African township. Transform: Crit Perspect South Afr 83(1):32–55

Mayne A (2017) Slums: The history of a global injustice. Reaktion Books

Mbane TL, Ezeuduji IO (2022) Stakeholder perceptions of crime and security in township tourism development. Afr J Hosp Tour Leis 11(3):1128–1142

Mekawy MA (2012) Responsible slum tourism: Egyptian experience. Ann Tour Res 39(4):2092–2113

Meschkank J (2011) Investigations into slum tourism in Mumbai: Poverty tourism and the tensions between different constructions of reality. GeoJournal 76(1):47–62

Meschkank J (2012) Negotiating poverty: the interplay between Dharavi’s production and consumption as a tourist destination. In F Frenzel, K Koens, & M Steinbrink (Eds.), Slum Tourism (pp. 162–176). Routledge

Moher D, Liberati A, Tetzlaff J, Altman DG, Group*, P. (2009) Preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses: the PRISMA statement. Ann Intern Med 151(4):264–269

Mokoena SL, Liambo TF (2023) The sustainability of township tourism SMMEs. Int J Res Bus Soc Sci 12(1):341–349

Mtshali M, Mtapuri O, Shamase SP (2017) Experiences of black-owned Small Medium and Micro Enterprises in the accommodation tourism-sub sector in selected Durban townships, Kwazulu-Natal. Afr J HospTour Leis 6(3):130–141

Mukoroverwa M, Chiutsi S (2018) Prospects and challenges of positioning Harare as an urban township tourism destination. Afr J Hosp Tour Leis 7(4):1–11

Muldoon ML (2020) South African township residents describe the liminal potentialities of tourism. Tour Geogr 22(2):338–353

Muldoon ML, Mair HL (2016) Blogging slum tourism: A critical discourse analysis of travel blogs. Tour Anal 21(5):465–479

Muldoon ML, Mair HL (2022) Disrupting structural violence in South Africa through township tourism. J Sustain Tour 30(2–3):444–460

Munyanyiwa T, Mhizha A, Mandebvu G (2014) Views and perceptions of residents on township tourism development: Empirical evidence from Epworth, Highfields and Mbare. Int J Innov Res Dev 3(10):184–194

Nemasetoni I, Rogerson CM (2005) Developing small firms in township tourism: Emerging tour operators in Gauteng, South Africa. Urban Forum 16(2–3):196–213

Nisbett M (2017) Empowering the empowered? Slum tourism and the depoliticization of poverty. Geoforum 85(July):37–45

Nkemngu AP (2014) Stakeholder’s participation in township tourism planning and development: The case of business managers in Shoshanguve. Afr J Hosp Tour Leis 3(1):1–10

Outterson K, Selinger E, Whyte K (2011) Poverty Tourism, Justice, and Policy: Can Ethical Ideals Form the Basis of New Regulations? Public Integr 14(1):39–50

Paul NIJ (2016) Critical analysis of slum tourism: A retrospective on Bangalore. ATNA J Tour Stud 11(2):95–113

Petticrew M Roberts H (2008) Systematic reviews in the social sciences: A practical guide. John Wiley & Sons

Pongutta S, Kantamaturapoj K, Phakdeesettakun K, Phonsuk P (2021) The social impact of the COVID-19 outbreak on urban slums and the response of civil society organisations: A case study in Bangkok, Thailand. Heliyon 7(5):E07161

Article   PubMed   PubMed Central   Google Scholar  

Potgieter A, Berman GK, Verity JM (2019) The relationship between socio-cultural impacts of a township tour and the overall life satisfaction of residents in townships in the Western Cape, South Africa. Afr J Hosp Tour Leis 8(4):1–17

Privitera D (2015) Tourist valorisation of urban poverty: an empirical study on the web. Urban Forum 26(4):373–390

Rietjens S, Makoriwa C, de Boer S (2006) Utilising excess minibus-taxi capacity for South African townships tours. Anatolia 17(1):75–92

Rogerson C (2004) Urban tourism and small tourism enterprise development in Johannesburg: The case of township tourism. GeoJournal 60(3):249–257

Rogerson C (2014) Rethinking slum tourism: Tourism in South Africa’s rural slumlands. Bull Geogr 26(26):19–34

Rogerson C (2008) Shared growth in urban tourism: evidence from Soweto, South Africa. Urban Forum 19(4):395–411

Rolfes M (2010) Poverty tourism: Theoretical reflections and empirical findings regarding an extraordinary form of tourism. GeoJournal 75(5):421–442

Rusata T, Atmadiredja G, Kornita A (2023) Slum tourism: representing and interpreting reality in city. Indones J Tour Leis 4(1):55–64

Said EW (2003) Orientalism. Penguin

Sarrica M, Rega I, Inversini A, Norton LS (2021) Slumming on social media? E-mediated tourist gaze and social representations of indian, south African, and Brazilian slum tourism destinations. Societies 11(3):106

Seddiky MA, Chowdhury NM, Ara E (2023) Satisfaction level of slum dwellers with the assistance of the city corporation during COVID 19: the Bangladesh Context. Soc Sci 12(9):520

Sen A (2008) Sex, sleaze, slaughter, and salvation: phoren tourists and slum tours in Calcutta (India). Journeys 9(2):55–75

Shang Y, Li FS, Ma J (2022) Tourist gaze upon a slum tourism destination: a case study of Dharavi, India. J Hosp Tour Manag 52(September):478–486

Slikker N, Koens K (2015) Breaking the silence”: Local perceptions of slum tourism in Dharavi. Tour Rev Int 19(1):75–86

Small H (1973) Co‐citation in the scientific literature: A new measure of the relationship between two documents. J Am Soc Inf Sci 24(4):265–269

Solymári D, Kairu E, Czirják R, Tarrósy I (2022) The impact of COVID-19 on the livelihoods of Kenyan slum dwellers and the need for an integrated policy approach. PloS One 17(8):e0271196

Steinbrink M (2012) We did the Slum!’—Urban poverty tourism in historical perspective. Tour Geogr 14(2):213–234

Steinbrink M (2013) Festifavelisation: Mega-events, slums and strategic city-staging - The example of Rio de Janeiro. Erde 144(2):129–145

Steinbrink M, Frenzel F, Koens K (2012) Development and globalization of a new trend in tourism. In F. Frenzel, K. Koens, & M. Steinbrink (Eds.), Slum Tourism (pp. 19–36). Routledge

Sulistyaningsih T, Jainuri J, Salahudin S, Jovita HD, Nurmandi A (2022) Can combined marketing and planning-oriented of community-based social marketing (CBSM) project successfully transform the slum area to tourism village? A case study of the Jodipan colorful urban village, Malang, Indonesia. J Nonprofit Public Sect Mark 34(4):421–450

Surwase G, Sagar A, Kademani BS, Bhanumurthy K (2011) Co-citation analysis: An overview. BEYOND LIBRARIANSHIP: Creativity, Innovation and Discovery (BOSLA National Conference Proceedings) , 179–185

Torres I (2012) Branding slums: A community-driven strategy for urban inclusion in Rio de Janeiro. J Place Manag Dev 5(3):198–211

Tzanelli R (2018) Slum tourism: A review of state-of-the-art scholarship. Tour Cult Commun 18(2):149–155

UN-Habitat. (2006) State of the World’s Cities 2006/7

UN-Habitat (2020) World Cities Report 2020: The Value of Sustainable Urbanization

Urry J (1990) Tourist Gaze: Travel, Leisure and Society. In Tourist gaze: travel, leisure and society . Sage Publications Ltd

Wang H, Yang Y (2019) Neighbourhood walkability: A review and bibliometric analysis. Cities 93:43–61

Wise N, Polidoro M, Hall G, Uvinha RR (2019) User-generated insight of Rio’s Rocinha favela tour: Authentic attraction or vulnerable living environment? Local Econ 34(7):680–698

Download references

Author information

Authors and affiliations.

School of Public Policy and Management, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China

Tianhan Gui & Wei Zhong

You can also search for this author in PubMed   Google Scholar

Contributions

Tianhan Gui spearheaded the conceptual background, data collection, data analysis, and manuscript writing. Wei Zhong directed the methodology, supervised the data analysis, and also contributed to the manuscript writing.

Corresponding author

Correspondence to Wei Zhong .

Ethics declarations

Competing interests.

The authors declare no competing interests.

Ethical approval

Ethical approval was not required as the study did not involve human participants.

Informed consent

Informed consent was not required as the study did not involve human participants.

Additional information

Publisher’s note Springer Nature remains neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations.

Supplementary information

Rights and permissions.

Open Access This article is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License, which permits any non-commercial use, sharing, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, as long as you give appropriate credit to the original author(s) and the source, provide a link to the Creative Commons licence, and indicate if you modified the licensed material. You do not have permission under this licence to share adapted material derived from this article or parts of it. The images or other third party material in this article are included in the article’s Creative Commons licence, unless indicated otherwise in a credit line to the material. If material is not included in the article’s Creative Commons licence and your intended use is not permitted by statutory regulation or exceeds the permitted use, you will need to obtain permission directly from the copyright holder. To view a copy of this licence, visit http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ .

Reprints and permissions

About this article

Cite this article.

Gui, T., Zhong, W. When urban poverty becomes a tourist attraction: a systematic review of slum tourism research. Humanit Soc Sci Commun 11 , 1178 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1057/s41599-024-03696-w

Download citation

Received : 22 March 2024

Accepted : 30 August 2024

Published : 10 September 2024

DOI : https://doi.org/10.1057/s41599-024-03696-w

Share this article

Anyone you share the following link with will be able to read this content:

Sorry, a shareable link is not currently available for this article.

Provided by the Springer Nature SharedIt content-sharing initiative

Quick links

• Explore articles by subject
• Guide to authors
• Editorial policies

To read this content please select one of the options below:

Please note you do not have access to teaching notes, stakeholder views on sustainability in an urban destination context: an inclusive path to destination competitiveness.

International Journal of Tourism Cities

ISSN : 2056-5607

Article publication date: 21 May 2021

Issue publication date: 3 December 2021

Mass tourism in urban settings has proven to be economically significant in many parts of the world. To date, however, the academic debate on sustainable tourism has focused primarily on the ecological and socio-cultural sustainability of tourism in rural and coastal, rather than urban, settings. This paper aims to review the emerging debate on sustainable urban tourism, its complexities and challenges, and questions how urban destinations that are striving to become sustainable cities, can leverage benefit from the implementation of sustainable policies and practices to achieve tourism ‘destination’ competitiveness.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses a qualitative, exploratory research approach using in-depth interviews to seek responses from key stakeholders on their views and experiences of sustainability in the context of an urban destination. Thematic analysis is used to analyze and present the findings.

This study concludes that destinations need to be viewed in their broader regional context. Rather than be viewed solely as destinations that are ‘kind to the environment,’ sustainable urban destinations need to demonstrate a deeper commitment to all stakeholder groups, and especially local residents, to provide a fair and desirable ecosystem for achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Originality/value

This paper reflects on the potential relationship between ‘urban sustainability’ and the ‘destination competitiveness’ of an urban tourism destination. This then will provide the platform for sustainability to truly contribute to future destination competitiveness.

• Sustainability
• Destination

Acknowledgements

The authors confirm that no third-party support was obtained for this study with no conflict of interest to note.

Panse, G. , Fyall, A. and Alvarez, S. (2021), "Stakeholder views on sustainability in an urban destination context: an inclusive path to destination competitiveness", International Journal of Tourism Cities , Vol. 7 No. 4, pp. 895-915. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJTC-10-2020-0225

Emerald Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2021, International Tourism Studies Association.

Related articles

All feedback is valuable.

Please share your general feedback

Report an issue or find answers to frequently asked questions

Contact Customer Support

• Announcements
• Online Submission
• editorial board

Editor-in-Chief

Assoc. Prof. Qingyang Gu 

Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, National University of Singapore, Singapore

2572-7923 (Print) 2572-7931 (Online)

Publication Frequency

Semi-monthly

Article Processing Charges (APCs)

• Other Journals

Sustainable city tourism—A systematic analysis of Budapest and Mumbai

Agyeman, J., Bullard, R. D., & Evans, B. (2002). Exploring the Nexus: Bringing Together Sustainability, Environmental Justice and Equity. Space and Polity, 6(1), 77–90. https://doi.org/10.1080/13562570220137907

Aman, E. E., Omer, A., & Papp-Váry, Á. F. (2023). Tourism Marketing & Economic Sustainability of Tourist Destinations: Perspectives of Bale Mountains National Park. Gazdaság És Társadalom, 40–70. https://doi.org/10.21637/gt.2023.2.02

Annus, I. (2017). Sweden (Hungarian). In: Bodolay, László (editors). Kultúra, migráció, kommunikáció. Saldo Kiadó.

Annus, I. (2021). The EU’s model states: the Nordic members of the Union (Hungarian). In: Péter, D., Péter, S. (editors). Az Európai Unió a 21 században. Antall József Tudásközpont.

AQI. (2023). Budapest Honvacd Air Quality Index (AQI): Real-Time Air Pollution, Budapest. Available online: https://www.aqi.in/uk/dashboard/hungary/budapest/budapest/budapest-honvacd (accessed on 2 June 2024).

Avgoustis, Sotiris, H., Achana. (2002). A practical approach to city tourism sustainability. In: Proceedings of the 2002 Northeastern Recreation Research Symposium.

Bartus G. (2013b). Sustainable development success strategy (Hungarian). Available online: https://eionet.kormany.hu/akadalymentes/download/1/26/71000/NFFT-HUN-web.pdf (accessed on 2 June 2024).

Bartus, G. (2013a). The impact of the interpretation of the concept of sustainable development on the choice of indicators. Statistical Review, 91(8-9), 842-869.

Bartus, G. (2013c). Impact of the interpretation of the concept of sustainable development on the choice of indicators (Hungarian). Statisztikai Szemle, 91, 8-9.

Bódis, G., Papp-Váry, Á. (2021). Future-proofness in the post-Covid tourism sector. In: Baracskai, Z., Vukovic, D., Janjusevic, J. (editors). In: Proceeding of the 73rd International Scientific Conference on Economic and Social Development Development—“Sustainable Tourism in Post-pandemic World”.

Broekhof, D., Erickson, P., Piggot, G. (2019). Estimating consumption-based greenhouse gas emissions at the city scale—A guide for local governments. Stockholm Environment Institute.

Chen, C., Noble, I., Hellmann J., et al. (2023). University of Notre Dame Global Adaptation Initiative - Country Index Technical Report. Available online: https://gain.nd.edu/assets/522870/nd_gain_countryindextechreport_2023_01.pdf (accessed on 2 June 2024).

Coronel, M., Papp-Váry, Á. F., Pinke-Sziva, I., et al. (2022). Post-Pandemic Re-Positioning in a Cultural Tourism City: From Overtourism to E-Tourism. Available online: https://www.igi-global.com/gateway/chapter/295516 (accessed on 2 June 2024).

Curtis, F. (2003). Eco-localism and sustainability. Ecological Economics, 46, 83-102. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0921-8009(03)00102-2

Eisinger Balassa, B., Nagy, N. G., & Gyurián, N. (2024). Perception and social acceptance of 5G technology for sustainability development. Journal of Cleaner Production, 467. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2024.142964

Eurostat. (2020). The densest motorway networks across EU regions. Available online: https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/web/products-eurostat-news/-/ddn-20200528-1 (accessed on 2 June 2024).

Florido-Benítez, L. (2024). Metaverse cannot be an extra marketing immersive tool to increase sales in tourism cities. International Journal of Tourism Cities. https://doi.org/10.1108/ijtc-01-2024-0001

Fővárosi Vízművek. (2023). Meters, reading, consumption-Home. Meters, reading, consumption-Home (Hungarian). Available online: https://vizmuvek.hu/en/home/utility-customer-service/meter-administration (accessed on 2 June 2024).

Giaume, C. (2022). Increasing cycling trend in Budapest Eltis. Available online: https://www.eltis.org/in-brief/news/increasing-cycling-trend-budapest (accessed on 2 June 2024).

Global Footprint Network. (2023). Sustainable Development. Available online: https://www.footprintnetwork.org/our-work/sustainable-development/ (accessed on 2 June 2024).

Global Footprint Network. (n.d.). Earth Overshoot Day 1971-2022. Available online: https://www.footprintnetwork.org/ (accessed on 2 June 2024).

Google EIE. (2023). Budapest Summary-Google Environmental Insights Explorer - Make informed decisions (Hungarian). Available online: https://insights.sustainability.google/places/ChIJyc_U0TTDQUcRYBEeDCnEAAQ (accessed on 2 June 2024).

Gyurián Nagy, N., & Gyurián, N. (2023). Consumers’ Perceptions of Environmental Protection and Exploring Pathways to Sustainable Solutions. Chemical Engineering Transactions, 107, 205-210.

Kanuri, C., Revi, A., Espey, J., Kuhle, H. (2016). Getting started with SDG in Cities-A guide for Stake holders. UNSDSN.

Kostetska, K., Poyda-Nosyk, N., Bacho, R., et al. (2021). Natural resource reserves sustainable use and inclusive resort development. E3S Web of Conferences, 255, 01003. https://doi.org/10.1051/e3sconf/202125501003

KSH. (2022a). Generation of waste disposed of under public services by county and region (Hungarian). Available online: https://www.ksh.hu/stadat_files/kor/hu/kor0064.html (accessed on 2 June 2024).

KSH. (2022b). Settlements and dwellings with public piped drinking water (Hungarian). Available online: https://www.ksh.hu/stadat_files/kor/hu/kor0041.html (accessed on 2 June 2024).

KSH. (2023c). Number of road vehicles by county and region december (Hungarian). Available online: https://www.ksh.hu/stadat_files/sza/hu/sza0040.html (accessed on 2 June 2024).

Lukács, R. & Papp-Váry, Á. (2024), Beyond green campuses: Sustainability rankings as strategic tools for university branding. Available online: https://doi.org/10.31570/prosp_2023_0104 (accessed on 2 June 2024).

Lukacs, R., Szeberenyi, A., & Papp-Vary, A. (2023). Attitudes towards environmentally conscious lifestyle among university students in Budapest - in light of their purchasing decisions and waste management. In: Proceedings of the 22nd International Scientific Conference Engineering for Rural Development Proceedings. https://doi.org/10.22616/erdev.2023.22.tf047

MacArthur, R. H., & Wilson, E. O. (2001). The Theory of Island Biogeography. Princeton University Press. https://doi.org/10.1515/9781400881376

Maingi, S. W., Gowreesunkar, V. G., & Korstanje, M. E. (2024a). Tourist Behaviour and the New Normal, Volume I. Springer Nature Switzerland. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-45848-4

Maingi, S. W., Gowreesunkar, V. G., & Korstanje, M. E. (2024b). Tourist Behaviour and the New Normal, Volume II. Springer Nature Switzerland. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-45866-8

Miah, M., Szabó-Szentgróti, G., & Walter, V. (2024). A systematic literature review on green human resource management (GHRM): an organizational sustainability perspective. Cogent Business & Management, 11(1). https://doi.org/10.1080/23311975.2024.2371983

NDG. (2021). Country Rankings. Available online: https://gain.nd.edu/our-work/country-index/rankings/ (accessed on 2 June 2024).

NDG. (2023). Country Index Technical Report. University of Notre Dame Global Adaptation Initiative.

Oppla. (2017). Budapest-NBS for climate resilience and pollution control. Available online: https://oppla.eu/budapest-nbs-climate-resilience-and-pollution-control (accessed on 2 June 2024).

Ostrom, E. (2009). A General Framework for Analyzing Sustainability of Social-Ecological Systems. Science, 325(5939), 419–422. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.1172133

Page, S. J., & Duignan, M. (2023). Progress in Tourism Management: Is urban tourism a paradoxical research domain? Progress since 2011 and prospects for the future. Tourism Management, 98, 104737. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tourman.2023.104737

Papp-Váry, Á. F. (2018). Country Branding: What Branding? Relevant Terminologies and their Possible Interpretations in the Case of Countries. Economic and Regional Studies/Studia Ekonomiczne i Regionalne, 11(4), 7–26. https://doi.org/10.2478/ers-2018-0032

Papp-Váry, Á., Pacsi, D., & Szabó, Z. (2023). Sustainable Aspects of Startups among Generation Z—Motivations and Uncertainties among Students in Higher Educations. Sustainability, 15(21), 15676. https://doi.org/10.3390/su152115676

Poór, J., Jenei, S., & Módosné Szalai, S. (2021). Possible Discrimination in the Workspace Following Acceptance or Rejection of COVID-19 Vaccination – Opinions of Hungarian Employees. Journal of Eastern European and Central Asian Research (JEECAR), 8(3), 293–310. https://doi.org/10.15549/jeecar.v8i3.668

Poór, J., Módosné Szalai, S., Mura, L., et al. (2023). The impact of the pandemic on the central and regional areas of hungary: during the economic recovery following the global virus epidemic. Ad Alta: Journal of Interdisciplinary Research, 13(2), 207-212.

resonance. (n.d.). 2024 World’s Best Cities. Available online: https://www.worldsbestcities.com/best-cities-report/?r=dXJlYVlTb29ZKzBhQ0x6SXZCNFN2QT09 (accessed on 2 June 2024).

Salcido, R. (2016). Reviving the Environmental Justice Agenda. Chic. Kent. Law Rev., 91, 115-137.

Sandor, R., Szilvia, M. S., & Szonja, J. (2023). Hungarian Battery Production Public Opinion on Sustainability, Labor Market and the Environmental Protection. Chemical Engineering Transactions, 107, 691–696. https://doi.org/10.3303/CET23107116

Smith, M., Sulyok, J., Jancsik, A., et al. (2018). Nomen est omen – Tourist image of the Balkans. Hungarian Geographical Bulletin, 67(2), 173–188. https://doi.org/10.15201/hungeobull.67.2.5

Srivastava, P., Thivagar, M. L., Oros, G. I., &Tan, C. C. (2022). Mathematical and Computational Intelligence to Socio-scientific Analytics and Applications. In: Lecture Notes in Networks and Systems. Springer Nature Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-19-5181-7

Statista Research Department. (2023). Green areas per inhabitant in Budapest in Hungary 2018. Statista.

Szeberényi, A., Lukács, R. & Papp-Váry, Á. (2022). Examining environmental awareness of university students. Engineering for rural development, 21, 604-611.

Szeberényi, A., Rokicki, T., & Papp-Váry, Á. (2022). Examining the Relationship between Renewable Energy and Environmental Awareness. Energies, 15(19), 7082. https://doi.org/10.3390/en15197082

Tamas, V., Koltai Judit P., Gyurian, N. N., et al. (2023). The Sustainable Contribution of Artificial Intelligence to Higher Education—Results of a Pilot Study. Chemical Engineering Transactions, 107, 487–492. https://doi.org/10.3303/CET23107082

The Economic Times. (2023). Mumbai among 19 cities with the best public transport in the world, and it’s the only one from India. The Economic Times.

Torrie, R., Morson, N. (2023), Sustainable Cities Index 2023. Corporate Knights Inc.

TSA. (2023). Most Dangerous and Safest Cities Index. Travel Safe-Abroad.

United nations. (2015). THE 17 GOALS. Available online: https://sdgs.un.org/goals (accessed on 2 June 2024).

United Nations. (2023). Human Development Index. Available online: https://hdr.undp.org/data-center/human-development-index (accessed on 2 June 2024).

UNWTO. (2023). Sustainable Development. Available online: https://www.unwto.org/sustainable-development (accessed on 2 June 2024).

Vallinder, A., Farbstein, E. (2023). Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions, explained. Available online: https://normative.io/insight/scope-1-2-3-emissions-explained/ (accessed on 2 June 2024).

Vinkóczi, T., Heimné Rácz, É., & Koltai, J. P. (2024). Exploratory analysis of zero waste theory to examine consumer perceptions of sustainability: A covariance-based structural equation modeling (CB-SEM). Cleaner Waste Systems, 8, 100146. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clwas.2024.100146

von Hoerner, S. (1961). The Search for Signals from Other Civilizations. Science, 134(3493), 1839–1843. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.134.3493.1839

Wackernagel, M., Rees, W. (1996). Our Ecological Footprint: Reducing Human Impact on the Earth: 9 (Illustrated edition). New Society Publishers.

Webb, S. (2015). If the Universe Is Teeming with Aliens ... WHERE IS EVERYBODY? In Science and Fiction. Springer International Publishing. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-13236-5

World tourism organization (WTO). (1998). Guide for local authorities on developing sustainable tourism Madrid. World Tourism Organization.

• There are currently no refbacks.

This site is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License .

UN Tourism | Bringing the world closer

Share this content.

• Share this article on facebook
• Share this article on twitter
• Share this article on linkedin

EU Guidebook on Sustainable Tourism for Development

In recognition of the considerable opportunities and issues involved in the development of tourism, in 2012 the European Commission's Directorate-General for Development and Cooperation – EuropeAid established the project “Enhancing capacities for sustainable tourism for development in developing countries”. The project was undertaken in collaboration with the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) which was commissioned to prepare a Guidebook on Sustainable Tourism, as an engine for development, trade in services, job creation and poverty reduction.

The Guidebook is intended to enhance the understanding of tourism in all its dimensions, how it relates to the EU Agenda for Change so as to enable EU services in Brussels and the EU Delegations in 180 countries as well as other development institutions to include sustainable tourism development in their programme cycles.

UNWTO endeavours to maximize tourism’s contribution to, inter alia, development and international understanding, while minimizing its negative impacts, paying particular attention to the growth potential of developing countries. Likewise, the European Union is well placed to support developing countries in identifying and implementing interventions in sustainable tourism.

The approach has been based on the experience of UNWTO and its work with a wide range of partner agencies and governments. In particular, the results of the study have been field tested in six countries during and following the preparation of the document, namely Kenya, India, Vietnam, Senegal, Botswana and Timor-Leste . The guidebook was publicly launched with the EU on the 27th of June 2013 in Brussels.

Background- Sustainable Tourism for Development

Over the last decades, tourism has experienced continued growth and increased diversification, becoming one of the fastest growing economic sectors in the world. The business volume of tourism today equals or even surpasses that of oil exports, food products or automobiles, offering millions of direct entry points into the workforce, particularly for youth and women, and a diversity of investment opportunities for young entrepreneurial talents. Tourism has become one of the major sectors in international trade, at the same time representing one of the main income sources for many developing countries.  It is their only service sector with recorded surpluses in trade compared to the rest of the world.

However, tourism can also be a source of environmental damage and pollution, a threat to the socio-cultural structure, a heavy user of scarce resources and a potential cause of negative externalities in society.  What must be done?

Tourism in the Global Development Agenda: The future we want Rio+20 outcome document

" Sustainable tourism is highlighted in the final outcome document of Rio+20 as a thematic area and a cross-sectorial issue within the framework for action and follow-up.

130. We emphasize that well-designed and managed tourism can make a significant contribution to the three dimensions of sustainable development, has close linkages to other sectors, and can create decent jobs and generate trade opportunities (…)

131. We encourage the promotion of investment in sustainable tourism, including eco-tourism and cultural tourism, which may include creating small and medium sized enterprises and facilitating access to finance, including through microcredit initiatives for the poor, indigenous peoples and local communities in areas with high eco-tourism potential (…)"

• Rio+20: The Future We Want
• Green Economy Report leaflet

In recent years, sustainability has emerged as a critical concern that must be addressed in any viable tourism development strategy. Expressed simply, sustainable tourism can be defined as “Tourism that takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment, and host communities”. Tourism is one of the ten economic sectors identified in the UNEP Green Economy Report, whose greening could increase prosperity, create employment and reduce poverty. In addition, tourists are increasingly demanding the greening of tourism. Tourism development should hence have a sustainable approach , to be able to promote growth in the long-term while maintaining a balanced use of resources. This should be supported at local, national, regional and international levels.

Developing Countries surpassing advanced economies’ international tourist arrivals in 2015

Although developed countries remain both the major tourism destinations and source of international tourism, developing countries are reducing the gap. In recent decades there has been a substantial diversification in international tourism destinations, and many developing countries have registered phenomenal growth in tourist arrivals and receipts. Tourism also particularly thrives on assets such as natural environment, warm climate, rich cultural heritage and plentiful human resources, where developing countries have a comparative advantage.

• Tourism is the first or second source of export earnings in 20 of the 48 LDCs
• In some developing countries, notably small island states, tourism can account for over 25% of GDP.
• From 2015, emerging economies will, for the first time receive more international tourist arrivals than advanced economies
• By 2030, 58% of international arrivals will be to emerging economy destinations of Asia, Latin America, Central and Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa

However, tourism can also be a source of environmental damage and pollution , a heavy consumer of scarce resources and a cause of negative impacts in society.  For these reasons, it is imperative that it is well planned and managed , embracing the principles of sustainable tourism which is defined as “tourism that takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry the environment and host communities” .

The Purpose of the Guidebook- Sustainable Tourism for Development

The document is aimed at two main audiences:

• The EU and other development assistance agencies – to help them understand and identify opportunities to assist the tourism sector in delivering sustainable development.
• Governments and other stakeholders within developing countries – to help them identify where they may need to strengthen their approach to sustainable tourism, and if necessary to seek assistance, within the context of international priorities and policies for sustainable development.

In particular the document provides a basis for discussion between the above two groups in agreeing on priorities and actions for supporting sustainable tourism.

The study is seen as informing the existing cooperation frameworks and common assessment and coordination processes in Official Development Assistance and Aid for Trade . This applies particularly in the field of trade, in which tourism plays an important part, including the work of the Enhanced Integrated Framework in promoting Diagnostic Trade Integration Studies and in the delivery of Aid for Trade.

The study contributes to the positioning of tourism within the overarching framework for action on green growth, poverty eradication and sustainable development post-2015 , stemming from Rio+20 and addressed by the European Commission in Communication (2013) 92 A Decent Life for All: Ending poverty and giving the world a sustainable futur e

Related links

• A Decent Life for All: Ending poverty and giving the world a sustainable future

“Sustainable Tourism for development in developing countries”: A document in three interlinking parts

The Guidebook takes a comprehensive approach to tourism, covering a wide range of topics relating to its planning, development, management and impact. By working through the whole document, users are able to identify priorities for intervention across a spectrum of issues.

The Guidebook’s aim is to mainstream tourism by:

• Enhancing understanding and commitment to sustainable tourism.
• Providing guidance to assess the tourism sector’s importance, identifying opportunities for sustainable tourism development, planning actions, and enhancing sustainability of projects.
• Delivering a “Sustainable Tourism for Development Study” which will enable the EU and other development institutions to include sustainable tourism development in their programme cycles.

The guidebook is divided in the three parts described below:

• GUIDANCE NOTE:  Relates the UE framework for development, e.g. the EU Agenda for Change and Tourism pillars (methodology) and relates to EU priorities. It aims at providing guidance to EU services on the approaches required to ensure the effective implementation of priorities for sustainable tourism in developing countries. 
• SITUATION ANALYSIS : Describes the macro-economic dimensions of tourism; its contrubution to improve the situation of a country and its relation with other sectors; policies in place to develop the sector and its contribution to sustainable development and reviews the existing policies and programmes auming at developing sustainable tourism in developing countries.   
• METHODOLOGY:  Designes to ptovide EU delagrions with a sustematics approach to understand the impact and value of the tourism sector in the country and the way it is managed and operated; and to understand which actions are appropriate to improve the situation through tailored interventions. 

“The Methodology”: How to assess priorities for Sustainable Tourism in Developing Countries?

The Methodology follows a systematic structure which, through a series of questions * under each issue, enables the situation to be assessed, weaknesses and gaps identified and possible actions considered, while also pointing to existing services that are available. It focuses on five key pillars of sustainable tourism in developing countries:

Assess your needs!

• Questionnaire Pillar 1- Tourism policy and governance
• Questionnaire Pillar 2- Trade Investment, Data and Competitiveness
• Questionnaire Pillar 3- Employment, Decent Work and Capacity Building
• Questionnaire Pillar 4- Poverty Reduction and Social Inclusion
• Questionnaire Pillar 5- Sustainability of natural and cultural environment

• Hispanoamérica
• Work at ArchDaily
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Policy

The Tourism Effect: Reshaping Cities, Landscapes, and Infrastructure

• Written by Olivia Poston
• Published on September 10, 2024

This summer, over one million visitors, spectators, and athletes are expected to gather in the streets of Paris for the 2024 Summer Olympic Games . The preparation for the event included massive investments into upgrading infrastructure, venues, and public spaces throughout the city and country. In addition to the restoration of Grande New de I'Île-des-Vannes venue , the Georges-Callerey Swimming Pool, and the Poissonniers Sports Center , the city has revealed new typologies of public services and a master plan for the Olympic Athletes Village by Dominique Perrault Architecture .

While the event of the 2024 Summer Olympics will garner an incredible amount of attention, Paris is not the only city that is bracing for a strained season of tourism this year. Venice continues to navigate a tumultuous relationship with the negative effects of over-tourism, the residents of Barcelona are voicing their concerns of displacement and economic exploitation, and cities throughout Southeast Asia continue to see correlating numbers of tourists and biodiversity loss. The impacts of over-tourism, cultural commodification, and environmental harm from tourism development are universal concerns, shared by dense urban centers and rural communities alike.

Fortunately, there are many creative designers, planners, and policymakers who integrate spaces and networks of tourism into the built environment with the support of the local residents. Since the development of tourism undeniably impacts the infrastructure, planning, economy, and local ecology of the surrounding environment, there is a unique opportunity to invest in the public spaces and infrastructures of the existing context.

Related Article

Complementing historic monuments with contemporary architecture.

Sitting at the foot of the Athens Acropolis, the New Acropolis Museum , designed by Bernard Tschumi Architects , bridges multiple key archeological sites in modern-day Athens to the iconic campus of the Greek Acropolis. Acting as a narrative aid to the Parthenon, the exhibition space of the museum unites collections spanning thousands of years to tell a story of human presence on the Acropolis. Without attempting to overshadow the presence of the Parthenon on the Acropolis, the museum injects a historical, social, and cultural context of the site throughout the years of development and evolution, enhancing the iconic environment of contemporary Athens.

Urban environments are in constant states of change. By blending contemporary architectural moments with historical monuments, designers and planners can maintain a cohesive urban fabric to elevate the image of the city. Although contemporary architectural spaces contrast with historically preserved monuments, such as the Athens Acropolis, this form of architectural intervention prevents spatial fragmentation into strictly old versus new areas of the city. When coupled with contemporary projects, historic monuments are not frozen in time, but become relevant, functional, and engaged with the current cultural and technological contexts.

Unified Images in Tourism Networks

Completed in 2016, the network of tourism pavilions throughout the capital city of Madrid are strategically situated to complement the sites with the greatest traffic from tourism crowds. Designed by the offices of Irene Brea and José Manuel Sanz Arquitectos , the iconic form of the pavilion series is quickly recognizable to the visitor in need of direction, guidance, or information, but the materiality seamlessly blends into the existing fabric of the city. Adhering to the primary guiding design principles of transparency and lightness, those in the interior of the centers are included in the activity of the city while the passing pedestrians can interact with the workers and information on the inside.

Without a clear vision for the visitor experience of discovering the city, the tourist will tire easily, become disoriented, or grow disengaged, altogether. The opportunity to design a network of pavilions throughout the urban environment transforms the purposes of the architectural spaces from strictly informative purposes, to a unified network for rest, orientation, and energy. By ensuring that the day of sightseeing, walking, and wandering through the city is cohesive and enjoyable, a tourism network can encourage longer stays and leave a positive lasting impression of the city and its sites.

Serving Local Communities through Tourism

Located in the small village of Pai Town in Linzhi, the southeastern part of Tibet autonomous region , the Tibet Namchabawa Visitor Center celebrates the cultural history of the village and the extraordinary beauty of the Mount Namchabawa and Yaluntzangpu Grand Canyon. While servicing the backpackers that embark on the networks of hiking, the Visitor Center has transformed into a "town center" for the residents, as well. While the design team of standard architecture included necessary elements to service the backpacking travelers, such as a supply store, medical aid, and a reception desk, the town center holds a water reservation tank and a central electrical switch house for the residents of the village. While fulfilling the needs of the visitor, the design team successfully elevated the quality of life for the permanent residents of the Yaluntzangpu Canyon region.

From examples in Barcelona, Paris , and countless others, the tourism industry can exacerbate existing inequalities if the benefits, resources, and profits from welcoming visitors are not distributed well among the existing residents. By including the community members in the planning and design processes, the conversation will include a sustainable approach to distributing resources. Since the local community has a profound understanding of the cultural and ecological context, they are valuable stakeholders to ensure that development is sustainable and responsible. If the residents are able to shape the strategies for development in conjunction with tourism, there is a lower risk of cultural exploitation, displacement from gentrification, and environmental degradation. These enhancements to the tourism industry can act as an opportunity to serve the needs of the community when meaningfully included in the design and planning stages.

Short-term visions for tourism development will amplify the negative consequences of over-tourism, fragmented city planning, environmental degradation, cultural commodification, and an increased pressure on local resources. The goal of architecture and infrastructure serving these tourism developments should not be concentrated on a singular event or experience, but rather on how to strengthen the relationship between the visitor, the resident, and the environment. In this context, the impact of design and planning decisions extends far beyond the original program of promoting a tourism event or experience. There is an opportunity with developing networks and sites of tourism to integrate local knowledge, invest in the infrastructure or local neighborhoods for the area, and build resilient communities.

Image gallery

• Sustainability

世界上最受欢迎的建筑网站现已推出你的母语版本!

想浏览archdaily中国吗, you've started following your first account, did you know.

You'll now receive updates based on what you follow! Personalize your stream and start following your favorite authors, offices and users.

• ➠ AckySHINE Profile
• ➠ Guidelines/Policies
• ➠ Changelog & Notification
• ➠ Contact AckySHINE

NOTIFICATION:  Please note that all online services are pending. Creation of New posts ceased, you can still enjoy our old posts.   Find more here

Melkisedeck Leon Shine | Author/Editor

I'm  Melkisedeck Leon Shine  Author/Editor of AckySHINE . I am a multifaceted professional with expertise in Business, Agriculture, Community Development, Project Management, IT, and more .

About Me  |  Contact Me  |  LinkedIn  |  TikTok  |  WhatsApp

• ➠ Peace Campaigns
• ➠ Development Campaigns
• ➠ Health and wellbeing
• ➠ Environmental Campaigns
• ➠ Support/Aid

Melkisedeck Leon Shine

Founder Since 2011

• ➠ Kampeni za Amani
• ➠ Kampeni za Maendeleo
• ➠ Kampeni za Afya na ustawi
• ➠ Kampeni za Mazingira
• ➠ Misaada/Hisani

Let's make the world a place of peace, prosperity, good health, and well-being for the current and future generations. Melkisedeck Leon Shine

• 📌 Ministries in English Language
• 📌 Ministries in Swahili Language

➥ Reflections ➥ Articles ➥ Quotes ➥ Teachings ➥ Daily Readings ➥ Prayers ➥ Books

God Loves You

“ For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. ” - John 3:16

“... by his wounds we are healed. ” - Isaiah 53:5

➥ Tafakari ➥ Makala ➥ Nukuu ➥ Mafundisho ➥ Masomo ya Misa ➥ Sala ➥ Vitabu

Makala Maalumu za Dini

➥ Maswali na Majibu Kuhusu Kanisa Katoliki ➥ Maswali na Majibu Kumhusu Bikira Maria ➥ Maswali na Majibu Kuhusu Ibada ya Misa ➥ Mafundisho Kuhusu Toarani ➥ Mafundisho kuhusu Ekaristi Takatifu ➥ Mafundisho Kuhusu Dhambi na Kitubio ➥ Kuhusu Sanamu Katika Kanisa Katoliki

• Explore All Articles Contact Author/Editor
• Makala Zote Wasiliana nami Ukurasa kwa Wakatoliki

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light." Jesus Christ, Matthew 11:28-30

🎉 Welcome to AckySHINE Articles! 🌟  |  Select the category you want to explore and dive into a world of inspiration and knowledge! 🚀📚

• ➠ Family, Love & Relationship
• ➠ Beauty and Fashion
• ➠ Health and Lifestyle
• ➠ Religion & Spirituality
• ➠ Business & Entrepreneurship
• ➠ Personal Development
• ➠ Digital Marketing

ENTERTAINMENT

• ➠ Science and Technology
• ➠ Contemporary Issues
• ➠ School and Academics

Editor/Author

Recent comments, featured post.

🎉 Welcome to AckySHINE eBooks! 🌟  |  Select the category of eBook you want to explore and download, and embark on an exciting literary adventure! 📚🚀✨

• ➠ Family, Love and Relationship
• ➠ Christian Books
• ➠ SMS Books
• ➠ Level One Notes
• ➠ Level Two Notes
• ➠ Level Three Notes
• ➠ Level Four Notes
• ➠ Familia, Mapenzi na Mahusiano
• ➠ Afya na Utimamu
• ➠ Kilimo na Ufugaji
• ➠ Vitabu vya Vichekesho
• ➠ Vitabu vya SMS
• ➠ Vitabu vya Misemo
• ➠ Vitabu Vya Dini
• ➠ Vitabu Maarufu

Recent reviews

• ➠ eBook Search
• ➠ Featured eBooks
• ➠ Research Consultancy
• ➠ Monitoring and Evaluation
• ➠ Training and Facilitation
• ➠ Business Planning and Management Consultancy

Team Leader: Melkisedeck Leon Shine

AckySHINE Consultancy Services is led by Melkisedeck Leon Shine, a seasoned professional with a diverse and extensive background across multiple domains, including business, agriculture, IT, project management, and social science research, read more .

• Account details

Sustainable Tourism in Urban Settings: Balancing Growth and Preservation

In our increasingly globalized world, the concept of sustainable tourism has gained immense importance. As more and more people flock to cities for various reasons, it is essential to find a balance between urban growth and the preservation of our natural and cultural heritage. In this article, we will explore the promotion of global sustainable cities and communities, and discuss the strategies that can be implemented to achieve this delicate balance.

Sustainable Urban Planning: The foundation of sustainable tourism lies in the planning and development of cities. Urban planners need to consider the environmental, social, and economic impacts of their decisions. The integration of green spaces, efficient public transportation systems, and the preservation of historical sites are all vital components of sustainable urban planning.

Community Engagement: Engaging local communities in the decision-making process is crucial for sustainable tourism. By involving residents in the planning and implementation of tourism initiatives, their voices can be heard, and their concerns addressed. This fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility, ensuring the long-term success of sustainable tourism in urban areas.

Cultural Preservation: Urban areas are often rich in cultural heritage. By preserving historical sites, traditions, and indigenous knowledge, cities can attract tourists who are seeking authentic experiences. This not only promotes cultural diversity but also helps to maintain the identity of communities, enhancing the overall appeal of the destination.

Sustainable Transportation: Efficient transportation systems are vital for reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable tourism. Encouraging the use of public transportation, cycling, and walking can help ease congestion, reduce pollution, and enhance the overall visitor experience.

Energy Efficiency: Promoting energy-efficient practices in urban areas is essential for sustainable tourism. Encouraging the use of renewable energy sources, implementing energy-saving technologies, and raising awareness about the importance of responsible energy consumption can greatly contribute to the sustainability of cities.

Waste Management: Effective waste management strategies are crucial for urban sustainability. Implementing recycling programs, reducing plastic waste, and promoting responsible consumption can help minimize the negative impact of tourism on the environment.

Green Infrastructure: Developing green infrastructure, such as parks, gardens, and green roofs, can enhance the livability of cities while also providing recreational spaces for both residents and visitors. These green areas contribute to the overall well-being of urban communities and promote sustainable tourism.

Sustainable Accommodation: Encouraging the development of eco-friendly accommodation options, such as green hotels and homestays, can significantly contribute to the sustainable tourism industry. These establishments adhere to environmentally friendly practices and provide unique experiences for travelers.

Education and Awareness: Promoting education and awareness about sustainable tourism practices is crucial for fostering a culture of sustainability. By providing information about the environmental, social, and economic impacts of tourism, both locals and tourists can make informed choices that contribute to the long-term sustainability of urban areas.

Partnerships and Collaboration: Building partnerships between government bodies, local communities, businesses, and NGOs is essential for promoting sustainable tourism. Collaboration can lead to the sharing of resources, knowledge, and best practices, creating a more sustainable and resilient urban environment.

Responsible Tourism Policies: Implementing responsible tourism policies can help regulate the industry and ensure that tourism activities align with sustainable development goals. These policies can address issues such as overcrowding, resource depletion, and the protection of vulnerable communities and ecosystems.

Monitoring and Evaluation: Continuous monitoring and evaluation of tourism activities are essential for identifying potential issues and implementing corrective measures. Regular assessments can help measure the impact of tourism on urban areas and guide future planning and development efforts.

Capacity Building: Investing in the capacity building of local communities and tourism stakeholders can empower them to actively engage in sustainable tourism practices. Training programs, workshops, and educational initiatives can equip individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to contribute to the promotion of global sustainable cities and communities.

Responsible Marketing and Communication: Promoting sustainable tourism through responsible marketing and communication is crucial for attracting like-minded travelers. Highlighting the unique sustainable practices and cultural experiences of urban destinations can foster a positive image and encourage responsible tourism.

Continuous Improvement: Sustainable tourism is an ongoing process that requires continuous improvement and adaptation. Staying up-to-date with the latest trends, technologies, and best practices is crucial for promoting global sustainable cities and communities.

In conclusion, sustainable tourism in urban settings is a complex task that requires the collaboration of various stakeholders. By implementing strategies such as sustainable urban planning, community engagement, cultural preservation, and responsible tourism policies, we can achieve a balance between growth and preservation. Let us all embrace the challenge and work towards promoting global sustainable cities and communities.

What steps will you take to contribute to the promotion of global sustainable cities and communities? Share your thoughts and ideas in the comments below! #SustainableTourism #GlobalSustainability #UrbanSettings #CommunityEngagement #ResponsibleTourism #SustainableCities

➠ Find More About Me

References:

This eBook Was Retrieved as a Printable Version of an Article Published at www.ackyshine.com

Author/Editor: Melkisedeck Leon Shine, Email: [email protected] | Website: www.ackyshine.com or www.shine.tz | Phone/WhatsApp: +255 757 310 426

Copyright © All rights Reserved.

Hey there! 😄

If you’re enjoying yourself, please leave a comment💬.

I’d love to hear from you! 💬❤️

Your Friend, Melkisedeck Leon Shine

AckySHINE eBooks

Types of available books.

• Uncategorized 2 2 products
• Beauty and Fashion 0 0 products
• Business & Entrepreneurship 0 0 products
• Christian Books 0 0 products
• Digital Marketing 0 0 products
• Family, Love and Relationship 0 0 products
• Health and Lifestyle 0 0 products
• Personal Development 0 0 products
• SMS Books 0 0 products
• Vitabu vya Misemo 1 1 product
• Vitabu Maarufu 0 0 products
• Vitabu vya Burudani 2 2 products
• Vitabu Vya Dini 11 11 products
• Kilimo na Ufugaji 8 8 products
• Afya na Utimamu 3 3 products
• Familia, Mapenzi na Mahusiano 12 12 products
• Vitabu vya SMS 6 6 products
• Vitabu vya Vichekesho 2 2 products
• Agriculture 4 4 products
• Biology 4 4 products
• Bookkeeping 0 0 products
• History 4 4 products
• Civics 4 4 products
• English 4 4 products
• Kiswahili 4 4 products
• Chemistry 4 4 products
• Commerce 0 0 products
• Computer 0 0 products
• Mathematics 0 0 products
• Physics 0 0 products
• Geography 4 4 products
• Level One Notes 8 8 products
• Level Two Notes 8 8 products
• Level Three Notes 8 8 products
• Level Four Notes 8 8 products

Article Categories

Entertainment

Welcome to ackyshine ministries.

Welcome to AckySHINE Ministries, where our mission is to illuminate lives with the light of Christian faith.

Choose your Language to Proceed

Author/Editor of AckySHINE Ministry Articles

Hey, Awesome Friend!

Thanks for reaching out! Send me a message on WhatsApp via the link below or email through the form. I prefer messages over calls, so please avoid calling. Thanks!

Send Me a WhatsApp Message here

Or send me an email via the following form

Your Name (required)

Your Email (required)

Your Phone (required)

Your Message

AckySHINE Consultancy Services

Social science research consultancy.

We offer research consultation services: concept development, design, data collection, processing, and reporting.

Business Planning & Management Consultancy

We offer expert services in planning, strategy, execution, and performance analysis.

Monitoring and Evaluation Consultancy

We offer consultation services in M&E Planning, Process Evaluation and In Impact Evaluation.

Training and Facilitation Consultancy

We offer consultation services in training planning, session management, and facilitation.

Welcome AckySHINE Charity

AckySHINE charity is a program for humanitarian campaigns and aid aimed at promoting peace and unity, protecting the environment, and maintaining the health and development of individuals and the community as a whole. These campaigns are advertised through ackyshine.com.

AckySHINE Charity Founder, Since 2011

Chagua unachotaka hapa

➠  Vichekesho Vya Leo

➠  SMS Nzuri kwa Umpendaye

➠  Chemsha Bongo za Leo

➠  Hadithi za Kusisimua

➠  Ujasiriamali na Biashara

➠  Stadi za Maisha

➠  Familia, Mapenzi na Mahusiano

➠  Kilimo na Ufugaji

➠  Urembo na Mitindo

➠  Afya Mapishi na Lishe

➠  Website kwa Wakatoliki

➠  Pakua/Download vitabu [pdf]

Welcome to AckySHINE, Choose what you want here

🌟 dedications.

The Best 20+ Good Luck SMS Messages for Wishing Success

Special Dedications: 25 Flirty SMS Messages to Spice Up Your Conversations

Recommended 25 Birthday SMS Messages to Celebrate Special Moments

Special Dedications: 25 Thank You SMS Messages to Show Your Appreciation

Best 25 Job Promotion Congratulations SMS Messages for Career Success

What dies but never lives?

What’s a ghost’s favorite room in the house?

Why did the Cyclops stop teaching?

Who is Knocking?

Why should you never iron a four leaf clover, 🌟 funny questions, why couldn’t the turkey eat dessert, what is dracula’s favorite fruit, what’s a math teacher’s favorite tool, what did the hamburger name her daughter.

What does Santa clean his sleigh with?

Username or email address  * Required

Password  * Required

Remember me Log in

Lost your password?

Email address  * Required

A link to set a new password will be sent to your email address.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Your personal data will be used to support your experience throughout this website, to manage access to your account, and for other purposes described in our privacy policy .

[woocommerce-my-downloads]

AckySHINE is a Platform that support provision of both Online and Offline Services.

We provide the following Services

List of AckySHINE Services

Ackyshine development changelog.

Welcome AckySHINE, We are still developing AckySHINE platform. Almost all services are not available for now because of reprogramming state. However, some services might be available from time as we are occasionally testing our services before full launching. We are sorry for any inconvenience.

Share your ideas and suggestions for our services here . We will be happy to hear from you.

This is how AckySHINE Evolved

Post Creation Notification

Because of unavoidable circumstances this website (ackyshine.com) will not be updated starting from May 2018 till further notice.

No new post will be published. However you can only view/read old pages (public pages), which are pages created before May 2018 and shared to the public.

With thousands of old public pages, this website can still be useful and active to the public users.

Jarida la SMS 12 Nzuri za kumshauri mpenzi wako

📕Kitabu: MBINU ZA KUWA MZAZI WA KIPEKEE NA BABA BORA WA FAMILIA

📕kitabu: jinsi ya kuwa mwanamme: namna ya kujitambua na kujikubali.

📕Kitabu cha Mbinu za Kilimo Bora Cha Mboga🌿🍅

📕kitabu: mbinu za kuwa mwanamme mwenye mafanikio katika maisha, 📕kitabu: jinsi ya kutunza afya yako kama mwanamme.

📕Kitabu: MBINU ZA KUMUWEZESHA MWANAMME KUIELEWA NDOA YAKE NA KUIIMARISHA

📕kitabu: jinsi ya kumsaidia mke wako majukumu ya kifamilia na kuweka malengo na ndoto za pamoja.

We, the Operators of this Application, provide it as a public service to our users.

Terms of Use

Please carefully review the  Terms of Use that govern your use of the Application and Website. Please note that your use of the Application constitutes your unconditional agreement to follow and be bound by these Terms and Conditions of Use. If you (the “User”) do not agree to them, do not use the Application, provide any materials to the Application or download any materials from it.

Privacy Policy

The  Privacy Policy explains what we may do, and will not do, with your personal data that might be collected while you use this application and its services. Please read this policy and if you do not agree with it, please do not use this application or any of the services on it.

If you have questions regarding these policies please  contact  us.

53 Pages NOTES – HISTORY FORM ONE: Ordinary Level (O-level), Secondary School – Tanzania

Kitabu cha Tafakari kwa Mkristu Mkatoliki (Sehemu ya I)

Biblia Takatifu Agano la Kale

123 Pages NOTES – HISTORY FORM THREE: Ordinary Level (O-level), Secondary School – Tanzania

Kitabu cha Mwongozo wa kusali Rozari Takatifu ya Mama Bikira Maria

📕Kitabu cha: JINSI YA KUISHI NA MKE WAKO: MWONGOZO WA MAISHA YA NDOA

126 Pages NOTES – GEOGRAPHY FORM ONE: Ordinary Level (O-level), Secondary School – Tanzania

Kitabu cha Ufugaji wa Kware/Kwale kwa Faida

130 Pages NOTES – BIOLOGY FORM THREE: Ordinary Level (O-level), Secondary School – Tanzania

61 Pages NOTES – ENGLISH FORM ONE: Ordinary Level (O-level), Secondary School – Tanzania

JINSI YA KUTIBU CHUNUSI KWA NJIA ZA ASILI

Kitabu cha Novena ya Roho Mtakatifu

JARIDA LA KILIMO BORA CHA MATIKITI

📕kitabu: mbinu za kujenga heshima, uvumilivu na furaha katika ndoa.

KITABU CHA KILIMO BORA CHA KABICHI

📕kitabu: namna mwanamme anaweza kushinda changamoto za ndoa na kujenga uaminifu na imani.

Kitabu cha SMS Maalumu kwa Umpendaye

Kitabu cha Mwongozo wa Sala na Nyimbo za Ibada ya Njia ya Msalaba

📕Kitabu cha Vichekesho Vikuu Vikali 300+✔

127 Pages NOTES – BIOLOGY FORM TWO: Ordinary Level (O-level), Secondary School – Tanzania

SMS TAMU ZA KUMSIFIA MPENZI WAKO

Jarida la kilimo bora cha vitunguu maji na swaumu

KITABU CHA KILIMO CHA PILIPILI HOHO

133 Pages NOTES – GEOGRAPHY FORM TWO: Ordinary Level (O-level), Secondary School – Tanzania

207 Pages NOTES – AGRICULTURE FORM THREE: Ordinary Level (O-level), Secondary School – Tanzania

33 Pages NOTES – CIVICS FORM THREE: ORDINARY LEVEL (O-LEVEL), SECONDARY SCHOOL – TANZANIA

52 Pages NOTES – ENGLISH FORM TWO: Ordinary Level (O-level), Secondary School – Tanzania

85 Pages NOTES – AGRICULTURE FORM FOUR: Ordinary Level (O-level), Secondary School – Tanzania

132 Pages NOTES – HISTORY FORM FOUR: Ordinary Level (O-level), Secondary School – Tanzania

41 Pages NOTES – KISWAHILI FORM ONE: Ordinary Level (O-level), Secondary School – Tanzania

Jarida la SMS 8 Maalumu Kwa Umpendaye Kumuomba Muwe Wapenzi

52 Pages NOTES – CIVICS FORM TWO: ORDINARY LEVEL (O-LEVEL), SECONDARY SCHOOL – TANZANIA

KITABU CHA SALA ZA KILA SIKU ASUBUHI NA JIONI

SMS Maalumu za Kumuomba Msamaha Mpenzi wako Mnapokosana

49 Pages NOTES – CHEMISTRY FORM TWO: Ordinary Level (O-level), Secondary School – Tanzania

119 Pages NOTES – KISWAHILI FORM THREE: Ordinary Level (O-level), Secondary School – Tanzania

📕Kitabu cha Sala Muhimu: Mkusanyiko wa SALA, LITANIA NA NOVENA

Mambo Ya Kuzingatia Kuepuka Ugonjwa Wa Saratani Au Kansa

52 Pages NOTES – CIVICS FORM FOUR: ORDINARY LEVEL (O-LEVEL), SECONDARY SCHOOL – TANZANIA

63 Pages NOTES – BIOLOGY FORM ONE: Ordinary Level (O-level), Secondary School – Tanzania

204 Pages NOTES – GEOGRAPHY FORM THREE: Ordinary Level (O-level), Secondary School – Tanzania

97 Pages NOTES – KISWAHILI FORM TWO: Ordinary Level (O-level), Secondary School – Tanzania

77 Pages NOTES – ENGLISH FORM THREE: Ordinary Level (O-level), Secondary School – Tanzania

📕Kitabu: JINSI YA KUWA MWANAMME WA UKWELI NA KIPEKEE

74 Pages NOTES – GEOGRAPHY FORM FOUR: Ordinary Level (O-level), Secondary School – Tanzania

70 pages notes – history form two: ordinary level (o-level), secondary school – tanzania.

Kwa nini Wakatoliki wanaweka Sanamu Kanisani?

Biblia takatifu agano jipya.

107 Pages NOTES – BIOLOGY FORM FOUR: Ordinary Level (O-level), Secondary School – Tanzania

104 Pages NOTES – CHEMISTRY FORM THREE: Ordinary Level (O-level), Secondary School – Tanzania

Kitabu cha Vichekesho Vya AckySHINE Sehemu ya I

40 Pages NOTES – CIVICS FORM ONE: Ordinary Level (O-level), Secondary School – Tanzania

Dondoo Kuhusu Saratani ya Tezi Dume: Chanzo, Dalili, Uchunguzi na Tiba

Kitabu cha MISEMO MAALUMU 1000 YA KUBADILISHA MTAZAMO WA MAISHA✔

KITABU CHA NOVENA KWA MTAKATIFU RITA WA KASHIA

Jarida la Kilimo Bora cha Bamia

Kitabu cha SMS 10 Nzuri za Kumsifia Mpenzi wako Ajione wa Kipekee

121 Pages NOTES – ENGLISH FORM FOUR: Ordinary Level (O-level), Secondary School – Tanzania

136 Pages NOTES – KISWAHILI FORM FOUR: Ordinary Level (O-level), Secondary School – Tanzania

Kitabu cha Kilimo Cha Mgagani

147 Pages NOTES – AGRICULTURE FORM TWO: Ordinary Level (O-level), Secondary School – Tanzania

Kitabu cha novena ya huruma ya mungu.

📕Kitabu cha SIRI ZA MWANAMKE👧👗👠

210 Pages NOTES – CHEMISTRY FORM FOUR: Ordinary Level (O-level), Secondary School – Tanzania

54 Pages NOTES – CHEMISTRY FORM ONE: Ordinary Level (O-level), Secondary School – Tanzania

91 Pages NOTES – AGRICULTURE FORM ONE: Ordinary Level (O-level), Secondary School – Tanzania

Enter your name

Enter your Email

Select your Advertising Type

Display Ads (monthly = $120) Guest Post (1 post = $34) Guest Post + Advertise (1 post = $145)

Select Advertising Services of Your Interest (Select Multiple)

Free Translation Free Landing page Embed forms on your landing page Embed HTML Codes Unlimited words Unlimited Pictures Unlimited Videos Intergraded in post categories

Additional Information/ comment Addition message

Select your Translation Type

Short Text (10 Words = $1) Document (1000 Words = $25) WebPage (1000 Words = $32)

Enter your Topic

Name of your Work/Document/ Website

Select Translation Services of Your Interest (Select Multiple)

Live Human Support Native speaking translators No automatic translation Proof reading Text Usage Testing Document Formatting Webpage Editing and Posting Follow-up

For Webpage, Enter page URL (For multiple pages use comment section)

For Short text and Document, Attach your File(s)

Each file Should be less than 5mb

Document/ Any File

Swahili Catholic Website

Please note that Swahili Catholic Website is not active. 

With hundreds of old public pages, we believe Swahili Catholic Website can still be useful to the public users.

AckySHINE Kiswahili Website

Please note that AckySHINE Swahili Website is not active. 

With hundreds of old public pages, we believe Swahili Website service can still be useful to the public users.

ENTER YOUR NAME

(Full name)

ENTER YOUR EMAIL

Will be used for feedback

Select your Subscription Type M & E Planning Monitoring (Process Evaluation) Impact Evaluation

PROGRAMME/PROJECT NAME

Your Programme/Project Title

Select M&E Services of Your Interest (Select Multiple)

Organizational Structures with M&E Functions Required resources and capacities Human Capacity Building Defining who would implement the various components of the M&E plan A proposed timeline for M&E M&E frameworks/Logical Framework Partnerships to Plan, Coordinate and Manage the M&E System M&E Work Plan and costs Surveys and Surveillance Evaluation and Research Routine Programme Monitoring Different methodologies Appropriate M&E tools for data collection Identifying where data would be stored and how it would be analysed Relevant M&E questions to ask at different stages of the project life cycle Supportive Supervision and Data Auditing Data Dissemination and Use Communication and Advocacy An effective implementation strategy Defining how M&E findings would be reported to donors, stakeholders and internal staff members

Enter your email Will be used for feedback

Select your Subscription Type Full Research Data Work Data Collection

Enter your Study Tittle Your Research Title Select Research Services of Your Interest (Select Multiple) Concept Development Research Activity Planning and Budgeting Research Proposal Development Research Tools Development Questionnaires Interviews FGD (Focused Group Discussions) Data Organization Data Clearing Data Coding and Sorting Data Entry Data Analysis (Quantitative and Qualitative) Data Presentation Report Writing Report Presentation

Additional information/ comment

Addition message

Share Any Available File(s)

Each file should be less than 5mb

Concept/Proposal/Tools/ Any File

Select your Subscription Type

Training Planning Training Facilitation

Your Training/Facilitation Topic

Select Training and Facilitation Services of Your Interest (Select Multiple)

Planning of Training Venue and Session Preparation of training Module Manages group-involvement processes Shares experiences that enhance credibility Assist with group discussions Share knowledge Focus on individual learning Creates and sustains an environment conducive for discussions and idea generation Develops group cohesiveness Shares experiences that enhance credibility Facilitate members of the group to share knowledge with one another Focus on group objectives Multiple learning intelligences with audio, visual, print materials, discussions, personal reflections Action and follow-up plans

ToR/Topics Plan/ Any File

[rpt name=”research-assistance”]

[rpt name=”m-e-consultancy”]

[rpt name=”3864″]

Feel free To contact us. We’ll be happy to hear from you.

Use the following form to send Message to us

Your message (optional)

OR You may use the following Address

Ackyshine consultancy.

P. O. BOX 450

KILIMANJARO, TANZANIA

Email: Info@ackyshine,com

AckySHINE is a consultancy office operating in Tanzania and providing professional services in the areas of Community development issues, Social science research and Project planning, monitoring and evaluation.

Main Consultation Services

• Research methodology
• Research Design/Planning
• Data collection
• Data Processing and analysis
• Project/Programme management and evaluation
• (M&E) Monitoring and Evaluation Project/Programme
• Planning and implementation
• Web design and Development
• And Other relating services

You are Always Welcome

We are well placed to ensure optimum solutions for numerous clients’ projects. We prefer a relationship based on mutual trust, co-operation, and communication

For us, the trust between the consultant and client is paramount. Enjoy the friendly atmosphere of his office when visiting.

Today's Weather - Voronezh, RUS

• Weather Details
• Featured Videos
• Air Quality
• Top Stories More News
• Today's National Outlook
• Hurricane Tracker
• Allergy Forecast
• Cold & Flu
• Snow & Ski Forecast
• Fire Updates
• Traffic Cameras
• Weather Cameras
• Outdoor Sports Guide