How is the consumer passion for authenticity impacting holidaying?

Abstract

Purpose

The paper aims to provide a general review on the importance of authenticity tourism options and on what makes an experience authentic.

Design/methodology/approach

Using statistical data provided from agencies and brands, the author takes a critical look at the evolution and importance of authenticity and experiences for the travel and tourism industry today.

Findings

Part and parcel of the pursuit of authenticity is a conscious debate about what actually counts as authentic; although in tourism, it typically involves an emphasis on experience. However, authenticity is a complex idea – with perceptions differing between people. The author also found that new technologies and social media can bring tourists nearer to the real.

Originality/value

Visual culture in an age of digital communications is unsurprisingly prominent in discussions about the authentic. While social media and selfie culture have affected insecurity about appearance, we are seeing a parallel interest in what is genuine.

Citation

Kasriel-Alexander, D. (2017), "How is the consumer passion for authenticity impacting holidaying?", Worldwide Hospitality and Tourism Themes, Vol. 9 No. 6, pp. 627-631. https://doi.org/10.1108/WHATT-09-2017-0046