Tourism, community-based tourism and ecotourism: a definitional problematic

Abstract

This article examines the definitional problematics associated with the many typologies of tourism focusing on tourism, ecotourism and community-based tourism. The wide range of typologies currently in use calls for more precise definitions to inform both policy and practice. The article argues that Government should shoulder this responsibility as it adopts the legislation and policies which regulate the sector. It unpacks the definitions employed by different role players, some of whom use them as marketing gimmicks. Based on definitions derived from secondary sources, the article argues that community-based ecotourism is an umbrella definition which encompasses environmental and cultural/social sustainability, local involvement/benefits, and social equity/redistributive justice and control of the tourism sector. It concludes that all typologies of tourism should be sustainable for the benefit of the hosts and that definitions should capture contemporary issues.