Keywords

authenticity, small island, Aruba, tourism specialization, cultural tourism

Abstract

This study explored the meaning of authenticity in the context of a small island destination from the residents' perspective, departing from the main stream literature which predominantly focuses on the demand side of the equation. Photo-elicitation was used to investigate the conception of authenticity. The finding from the focus group is that the notions of authenticity are unique, vast, and individualistic and that an encompassing definition of authenticity is difficult to concur. While the focus group provided clarity in terms of authenticity being embedded in the cultural lifestyle, an empirical study was conducted to further understand what cultural resources could be derived from the specific meaning of authenticity. Two themes emerged: (1) when residents interact with tourists, cultural attributes are more important than tradition; and (2) tourists are involved in creating an authentic process for residents. The younger generation appears to be frustrated with the impact of tourism on the cultural identity of the island. In conclusion, the concept and practice of authenticity are not static, but rather evolving practices that embrace new cultural forms. Cultural tourism could become a potent vehicle enhancing the quality of life of residents and the essence of the distinctiveness of Aruba contributing to a sense of place, pride, and culture.

Publication Date

1-1-2013

Original Citation

Croes, R., Lee, S., & Olson, E. (2013). Authenticity in Tourism in Small Island Destinations: the Residents’ Perspective. Journal of Tourism and Cultural Change, 11(1-2), 1-20.

Number of Pages

1-20

Document Type

Paper

Language

English

Source Title

Journal of Tourism and Cultural Change

Volume

11

Issue

1 & 2

Publication Version

Post-print

College

Rosen College of Hospitality Management

Location

Rosen College of Hospitality Management


Share

COinS
 
 

To view the content in your browser, please download Adobe Reader or, alternately,
you may Download the file to your hard drive.

NOTE: The latest versions of Adobe Reader do not support viewing PDF files within Firefox on Mac OS and if you are using a modern (Intel) Mac, there is no official plugin for viewing PDF files within the browser window.