Spotlight: Guides
Italy’s Tourism Industry Tries to Cut Out the Mafia Middleman
November 15, 2011
An exploration into how one nation’s tourism providers have been affected by organized crime provides a unique perspective of responsible tourism. In a recent article by Business Insider, author Caroline Chaumont chronicles how Sicilian tourism businesses and in-the-know tourists are fighting against the tradition of the local businesses being extorted for ‘protection’ money by the area’s mafia, known as Cosa Nostra. The gang These days, tourists and specialized travel agencies in Southern Italy are fighting back, by supporting business that defy the mafia. It’s a burgeoning form of responsible or ethical tourism in a region with much to offer: splendid Mediterranean countryside, stunning shorelines, hearty wines and cuisine that’s superlative even by Italy’s standards — influenced by the Greeks, Arabs, Spanish and French who invaded the island. “There is a strong demand for [anti-mafia tourism],” said Francesca Vannini Parenti, the founder of Addiopizzo... Read More →
Interpretation – Forging Emotional and Intellectual Connections for Travelers
May 6, 2010
“Been there – done that!” Those are words that no destination planner, community leader or tourism program manager should hope to hear. The phrase suggests that one visit is enough. In essence, it says, “I will not be back. I made no lasting emotional connections with your people or the place. There’s nothing for me here or nothing that I can really recommend to friends and family.” Ouch! Read More → Read More →
