What is Cultural Tourism?

Cultural tourism is defined as a type of tourism in which tourists learn about the history and culture of a country. This involves visiting museums, galleries, historical structures, performing arts, and other activities. The World Tourism Organisation (WTO) defines cultural tourism as "tourism whose main purpose is the protection and enhancement of the natural and cultural heritage of a nation."

Creative tourism is a type of tourism that focuses on the present, as well as the past and future. Its goal is to develop the knowledge, skills, and creative potential of tourists during their holiday. In addition to the acquisition of these skills, it also emphasizes the importance of human interaction.

One of the key characteristics of creative tourism is the informal participation of tourists in activities. This enables them to interact with the local community, empathise with them, and become part of the local society.

History

The history of cultural tourism is relatively old in Lebanon. Ancient civilizations, a rich archaeological record and a diverse ambiance have drawn visitors from across the world.

During the time of the Roman Empire, wealthy citizens visited the Mediterranean Sea coast. At the same time, pilgrimages became a popular way of travel.

The Greeks explored the cultures of other nations and sailed around the world with philosophers, social reformers and artists. Their intellectual exchange was reflected in monuments, artwork and temples.

Cultural tourism, which is the subject of this article, has evolved into a major component of the tourism industry. It is also an important tool for bolstering the economy of the host nation.

A major benefit of cultural tourism is its educational value. It provides tourists with an in-depth understanding of a culture.

What is the purpose of a marketing strategy for cultural tourism?

A Marketing strategy for cultural tourism aims to increase the number of visitors to a region. The strategy should also aim to strengthen the region's cultural sector. These goals can be achieved through collaborative marketing initiatives. Collaborative marketing strategies can help to avoid duplication and eliminate the need to update several websites.

While a tourism strategy should have a clearly defined visitor profile, a collaborative approach to marketing can also benefit the local community. Rather than focusing on attracting a certain demographic, the strategy should recognize the diverse cultural organizations and businesses in the region.

One of the key aspects of the cultural tourism strategy is recognizing the role of social media in promoting the region. Many communities and service providers have a policy on social media, and others use it as a direct marketing communication channel.