Geotourism: "builds experiences"

Geotourist

Let's create a sustainable visitor economy!

Geotourism is defined as tourism that sustains or enhances the distinctive geographical character of a place—its environment, heritage, aesthetics, culture, and the well-being of its residents. (National Geographic )

Geotourism goes beyond “drive through” travel. By focusing on the meaning of “place,” the community becomes a full partner in giving the visitor an authentic, enriching experience. The concept of Geotourism emphasizes local culture, products and traditions, and offers visitors multiple opportunities to explore an area’s natural beauty and human community. Geotourism seeks to engage and immerse visitors and community members in deeper more enriched emotional experiences. The ultimate goal is to make it attractive for visitors to desire to return and experience more.

Geotourism creates unforgettable trips. Enthusiastic visitors return home with exciting new information and understanding, and their stories encourage others to plan their own adventure, continuing healthy business for the destination. We achieve this via our unique Video Guided Story Trails. It is a more sustainable form of tourism.

It involves the community. Local businesses and civic groups cooperate in the interest of a distinctive, authentic visitor experience.

It educates both visitors and hosts. Residents discover their own heritage by learning that what they may take for granted. As local people develop pride and skill in showing off their home, resources are protected and tourists have a better visit. It benefits residents economically. Travel-related businesses hire local workers, and use local services, products, and supplies. When community members understand the benefits of Geotourism, they take responsibility for destination stewardship.

Current tourism approaches focus on attracting visitors to regional areas with a “push” approach. Vouchers, airline discounts, TV advertising and price triggers. In a world disrupted by CoVid we need to re assess and become disruptive as well!

Geotourism involves a longer term more sustainable “pull” approach. 

Imagine a library of Story Trails. So many more opportunities for visitors to return and establish deeper connections with places and the wider region. Video Guided Story Trails seek to prompt the following emotional response.

“Take me there” followed by, “Seen it. Loved it!” Now, “I just want to share it.”

Geotourism nature