Related Terms

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Background

• Ecotourism is a type of recreational travel that, in the most general sense, strives to benefit the environment, celebrate its biodiversity, and introduce people to the surrounding area through eco-friendly touring.
• Tourism may be divided into two distinct branches: conventional mass tourism and alternative tourism. Conventional mass tourism is mostly associated with large-scale trips that appeal to a general population, usually involving vacation destinations that provide luxury escapes and experiences. Often this form of tourism provides leisure at the expense of the surrounding natural environment, the local people and their culture, with a minimal contribution to the community's socioeconomic development.
• In contrast, alternative tourism may be defined as types of travel that do not cater to a general tourist population; it is often associated with sustainable and environmentally friendly travel. Other terms related to alternative tourism include: sustainable tourism, green tourism, eco-travel, responsible tourism, adventure tourism, cultural tourism, natural tourism, nature-based tourism, and ecotourism.
• Ecotourism, a form of alternative tourism, can be further subdivided into three categories: "hard" ecotourism, general or "soft" ecotourism, and adventure ecotourism. Hard ecotourism tends to involve a scientific interest in natural surroundings, wildlife and/or biodiversity. Hard ecotourism is the least luxurious form of ecotourism, often involving a lack of hotel accommodations or additional amenities. An example of hard ecotourism would be sleeping at an eco-friendly campsite.
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Technique

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Theory/Evidence

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Health Impact/Safety

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Future Research or Applications

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Author Information

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References

Natural Standard developed the above evidence-based information based on a thorough systematic review of the available scientific articles. For comprehensive information about alternative and complementary therapies on the professional level, go to www.naturalstandard.com. Selected references are listed below.

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