Redefining Tourism Narratives: Navigating beyond Banal Nationalism
This essay examines the relationship between tourism and nationalism, focusing on how national identity is constructed and promoted through tourism narratives. It highlights the case of Albania, showing how the country’s official tourism website reflects banal nationalism by using a primordialist approach to the history of Albania, emphasizing ancient roots and national struggles. The text argues that modern tourism often reinforces nationalist ideologies through historical narratives and cultural symbols, creating a simplified and exclusionary view of national identity. To counteract these tendencies, the essay suggests diversifying tourism narratives, promoting regional tourism, emphasizing sustainability, and fostering cross-cultural exchanges. These measures aim to create a more inclusive and balanced approach to tourism, acknowledging the complexities and diverse perspectives within national histories.
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