THE CONCEPTUALISATION OF THE GENDER TRANSFORMATIVE TOURISM FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF THE NEW TRENDS IN THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY

Abstract

This article aims to explore the concept of gender transformative tourism, which is defined as a form of tourism that challenges and transforms gender norms and relations in favour of gender equality and social justice. The article examines how the new trends in the hospitality industry, such as digitalisation, personalisation, sustainability and social responsibility, can contribute to the development of gender transformative tourism. The article adopts a conceptual and interdisciplinary approach, drawing on literature from tourism studies, gender studies and hospitality management. The article proposes a framework for analysing the potential and challenges of gender transformative tourism in the hospitality industry, based on four dimensions: awareness, empowerment, participation and impact. This paper provides a systematic analysis of the publications about gender transformative tourism, using bibliometric and content analysis methods. According to author’s deductions, it is shown that the gender transformative turism enhances multiple benefits like: fostering cross-cultural understanding, enhancing self-esteem confidence for women, and helping them to realize their full potential and aspirations, helping them to appreciate the diversity and complexity of gender identities and expressions, reducing reduces gender-based violence and discrimination It contributes to social justice and sustainable development, by addressing the root causes of gender inequality and empowering marginalized groups and others. In coclusions, the author formulates some recomendations in ordor to support gender transformative tourism, such as: raising awareness and educating ourselves and others about the importance and benefits of gender transformative tourism; choosing travel providers and destinations that are committed to gender equality and empowerment, and that respect the rights and dignity of all people; engaging in respectful and meaningful interactions with local communities and cultures, and being open to learn from their perspectives and experiences and others.