Chapter 9: Tourist Attractions

Question 1: In this chapter, some examples of tourist attractions at modern industrial operations, such as car manufacturing plants, were identified. Why might tourists decide to visit such places?

Answer Guide: Industrial attractions may appeal to those interested in the products themselves or in the manufacturing process. Many tours of factories are designed to offer education as well as a better understanding of the product and its nuances. This may help to build product loyalty. Tourists may choose to visit because they want to see how a product they use (and often like) is made. At the end, the factory shop may also provide opportunities to purchase the product at a lower price.

Question 2: From a tourism perspective, what are the advantages and disadvantages that should be considered by a city that is bidding to host a major sporting event, such as the Olympics?

Answer Guide: The cost of bidding can be substantial and needs to be managed so that if the bid is not won there are still benefits accruing from the bidding process. If the bid is won, then any disruption during the preparation phase may dissuade tourists from visiting. During the event, tourists may be diverted away from the city as they perceive likely congestion and high prices. Advantages may include enhanced destination image (though any media coverage) and enhanced reputation if the event goes well.

Question 3: Many battlefield sites are visited by tourists. Do you think it is acceptable that such places become tourist attractions?

Answer Guide: Battlefield tourism can be considered under the banner of dark tourism. There are debates about the use of sites where tragedies occur, but the sympathetic use of such sites can bring income, helping to fund maintenance and protection of the resources. It can also fund educational programmes to widen understanding of the tragic events. It may also be the case that tourists would visit regardless of whether an attraction is provided and so the impacts of these visitors need to be controlled and managed. Acceptability may lie in the way in which the site is developed and operated. Balancing the need for commercial viability, while at the same time avoiding insensitive over-commercialisation, may prove a challenge. Whether charges are made for visitors and the types of interpretation used may be influential.