Mass Tourism and the Challenge of Overtourism
For decades, tourism has been recognized as a force for progress, cultural exchange, and economic development. For many countries in Latin America and the Caribbean, it represents a growth engine, an opportunity for international integration, and a path toward productive diversification. However, over the past decade—especially following the post-pandemic recovery—this…
Value Chain Analysis in Latin American Countries Related to Tourism Expenditure
Nicolas Garrido (Chile) Summary This article analyzes the tourism value chain in nine Latin American countries. For years, tourism policy in the region has been measured almost exclusively by figures such as international arrivals, hotel occupancy, and average visitor spending. However, this article reveals a more complex reality: tourism can…
THE EMERGENCE OF AIRBNB: EXPANDING THE HOTEL MARKET OR A SUBSTITUTE DISPLACING TRADITIONAL HOSPITALITY?
Sebastián Ansaldo 1. Summary The expansion of Airbnb has transformed urban accommodation, introducing competition for traditional hotels, especially smaller ones. Its collaborative economy model, based on digital platforms, raises the question of whether it complements or replaces conventional hotels. Empirical evidence generally shows adverse impacts on hotel revenues and occupancy…
The Development of Professional Competencies for Sustainable Rural Tourism: The Heart Behind Development
Marco Antonio Abastoflor Portugal, (Bolivia) I. Summary Rural tourism in Bolivia, exemplified by Toro Toro, shows how training, community leadership, and the valorization of heritage can transform communities. Through competencies in hospitality, sustainability, and management, an inclusive and resilient local economy is fostered. Educational institutions—from primary schools to universities—play a…
The Development Traps of Latin America and the CaribbeanA reflection on the scenario faced by higher education institutions in tourism
Humberto Rivas Ortega (Chile) I. Summary ECLAC identifies three major “traps” that hinder development in Latin America and the Caribbean—low growth, high inequality, and weak governance—which also affect the tourism sector, and are further exacerbated by climate change. This context calls for a revision of tourism development models and the…
Meritocracy and Technocracy in Peru’s Tourism Sector
Carlos Villena Lescano (Perú) I. Summary Tourism is a strategic activity whose development in Peru is hindered by the lack of meritocracy and the appointment of authorities lacking technical suitability. Although professional education has advanced, clientelist practices and political decisions continue to weaken public sector management. Meritocracy, based on objective…
Touristologist vs. Tourismologist: Conceptual Differences and Approaches
Edison Rubén Molina Velásquez (Ecuador) I. SUMMARY In Latin America, distinguishing between touristologist and tourismologist is essential for shaping tourism professionals. The touristologist focuses on traveler behavior, motivations, and experiences, linking to fields such as psychology and marketing. In contrast, the tourismologist studies tourism as a whole, integrating economic, social,…
Motives Behind Gastronomic Consumption Decisions of Tourists in Mexico
Madrigal, G.B.; Gómez, D.J. (Mexico) The document presented below focuses on the study of the factors that influence tourists’ decisions regarding gastronomic consumption, as a contribution to the commercial success of service providers in a tourist destination in Mexico. When planning a trip, tourists allocate a specific budget for the…
Purpose-Driven Community Engagement (VCM): When Academia Leaves a Measurable Footprint in the Territories Visited
José Cristóbal Garrido Palma (Chile) Abstract Community Engagement (Vinculación con el Medio, VCM) in tourism must evolve toward projects with measurable impact, strengthening local capacities, environmental sustainability, and meaningful learning. Grounded in the Theory of Change, VCM enables the alignment of resources, activities, and tangible results. Cases such as Guasco…
The Crisis of Airports in Latin America and the Caribbean and Its Impact on Tourism
Daniel Meyer (Chile) I. Summary Air transport is undoubtedly essential for tourism in Latin America and the Caribbean, but the airport infrastructure that supports it faces serious challenges. A report by the Latin America journalistic consortium (GDA) Grupo de Diarios de América (1) reveals that many airports are operating at…