Ecotourism in Appalachia

Marketing the Mountains

Al Fritsch, Kristin Johannsen

• Publisher: The University Press of Kentucky
• Year: 2014
• Print ISBN: 9780813122885
• eBook ISBN: 9780813159225
• Topic: Economics
• Subtopic: Hospitality, Travel & Tourism Industry
• Index: Economics

Tourism is the world's largest industry, and ecotourism is rapidly emerging as its fastest growing segment. As interest in nature travel increases, so does concern for conservation of the environment and the well-being of local peoples and cultures. Appalachia seems an ideal destination for ecotourists, with its rugged mountains, uniquely diverse forests, wild rivers, and lively arts culture. And ecotourism promises much for the region: protecting the environment while bringing income to disadvantaged communities. But can these promises be kept? Ecotourism in Appalachia examines both the potential and the threats that tourism holds for Central Appalachia. The authors draw lessons from destinations that have suffered from the "tourist trap syndrome," including Nepal and Hawaii. They conclude that only carefully regulated and locally controlled tourism can play a positive role in Appalachia's economic development.

Table of contents

• Cover
• Half-title
• Title
• Copyright
• Contents
• Acknowledgments
• Introduction
• 1. The World's Biggest Industry: The Rising Star of Tourism
• 2. Mountain Mist: Appalachian Tourism Today
• 3. On the Wrong Track: ORV Tourism in Kentucky
• 4. Going Green: Ecotourism as an Emerging Experience
• 5. Lessons for Appalachia 1: Ecotourism in Developing Countries
• 6. Lessons for Appalachia 2: Nature Tourism in the U.S.
• 7. The Bottom Line: Ecotourism's Balance Sheet
• 8. 2020 Visions: Two Alternative Futures for Appalachian Tourism
• 9. Our Own Backyard: An Ecotour through Appalachia
• 10. Beyond Ecotourism: Transforming Travel
• Appendix 1: Co-op America's Travel Guidelines
• Appendix 2: 99 Recreational Activities Ranked by Impact
• Notes
• Index