On the Definition of Sentimental and Ethnic Tourism

Abstract

Purpose. The purpose of the study is to explore the challenges of defining what is commonly known as “ethnic tourism” or “sentimental tourism”. Provided here is a review, comparison, integration and systematization of the definitions of the phenomenon, its facets and characteristics. In particular, such variations as “nostalgic tourism”, “diaspora tourism”, “roots tourism”, “genealogy tourism” and others, are subjected tocomparative analysis. Based on the review, typology and hierarchy of the definitions are offered. Method. The study is based on a systemic literature review, and qualitative and frequency analysis of the definitions of the phenomenon. The literature search was not limited to publications by Polish authors, but included relevant literature on the topic in Ukrainian, Russian and English languages. The author is a native-speaker of Ukrainian and Russian, which is why the author presents his own translations of definitions in the article, while the translations from English language were consulted with other native-speakers. The systemic trends in the focus and content of definitions were analyzed with respect to temporal (changes over time) and geographical (regional differences) variation. Findings. The result is a division of the definitions, rankings based on their popularity, and a description of the trends in various locations and at different periods. Important nuanced differences in the definitions are pointed out to more precisely describe different facets of the phenomenon. Research limitations and conclusions. The study is mainly focused on the papers of Eastern European authors with reference to English-language literature. Practical implications. Sentimental tourism is a growing phenomenon. Due to the early fragmentation of literature, a wide range of definitions has been introduced leading to confusion and the improper use of terms. As a result, conduting searches, linking studies and analyzing the literature has become very difficult. The present study brings order to the field, thereby providing a solid foundation for integrating and systemizing the literature. A division of the definitions and a clear differentiation of their nuanced meanings will aid future researchers in more precisely defining the phenomena and consolidating the literature. Originality. Despite the existence of a large body of research on what is known as sentimental tourism, the present study is the first attempt to introduce clarity to the fragmented and conflicting definitions of the phenomenon. Type of paper. Integrative literature review involving conceptual and quantitative analysis.