What Is Cohen Theory Tourism?

By Michael Ferguson

Cohen Theory Tourism: A New Perspective on Traveling

Do you ever feel like you’re just going through the motions when you travel? Like you’re seeing all the same sights and doing all the same things as everyone else? If so, you might be interested in Cohen Theory Tourism.

Cohen Theory Tourism is a new approach to travel that focuses on experiencing a destination in a more authentic way. It’s based on the work of sociologist Erik Cohen, who studied tourism in the 1970s and 80s.

Cohen believed that traditional tourism was too focused on surface-level experiences and didn’t allow travelers to truly engage with a culture. He proposed an alternative approach that would allow travelers to have more meaningful and immersive experiences.

So what does this look like in practice? Here are some key principles of Cohen Theory Tourism:

Engaging with locals

One of the core ideas behind Cohen Theory Tourism is that it’s important to interact with locals when you travel. This means going beyond just staying in tourist areas and eating at tourist restaurants.

Instead, try to meet locals and learn about their lives and culture. This could involve staying with a local family, taking a cooking class from a local chef, or simply striking up conversations with people you meet.

Exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations

Another principle of Cohen Theory Tourism is that it’s important to seek out lesser-known destinations rather than just visiting the most popular tourist spots. This allows you to discover hidden gems and have more unique experiences. For example, instead of going to Paris and only seeing the Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum, try exploring some of the city’s lesser-known neighborhoods.

Participating in cultural activities

Cohen also believed that participating in cultural activities was crucial for truly experiencing a destination. This could involve attending local festivals or concerts, trying traditional foods, or learning a traditional craft or art form. By participating in these activities, you can gain a deeper understanding of the local culture and history.

Conclusion

Overall, Cohen Theory Tourism is about seeking out more authentic and immersive travel experiences. By engaging with locals, exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations, and participating in cultural activities, you can have a more meaningful travel experience that goes beyond just taking selfies at famous landmarks. So next time you plan a trip, consider incorporating some of these principles into your itinerary and see how it changes the way you travel.