Channel View Publications Responsible Rural Tourism in Asia (Aspects of Tourism): 89

Product Description The rural tourism sector has become a key driver for social and economic growth and a major source of income for developing and low-income countries in many parts of Asia. Rural tourism is progressively viewed as a solution, increasing the economic viability of marginalised areas, stimulating social regeneration and improving the living conditions of rural communities. Responsible rural tourism promotes conservation of the natural environment, protects the authenticity of culture, and offers socioeconomic opportunities and benefits for local communities. This book encompasses case studies from a range of Asian countries and examines both successful and failed attempts in developing responsible rural tourism, and the learnings that we can adopt and adapt for future responsible rural tourism in the region. It will be of interest to students, researchers, stakeholders and policymakers in tourism. Review This book is refreshingly about a discipline of gradualism over abrupt change, and the chapters offer practical solutions over lofty theories. This book is as much about opposing Western biocentrism as it is about doing sustainable tourism the 'Asian way', with a humble focus on respect for nature, diversity and harmony. --Catheryn Khoo-Lattimore, Griffith University, Australia With more attention now being paid to rural areas, this is a timely volume. The chapters emphasise the importance of rural tourism in highlighting and benefitting destinations. The book will certainly contribute to academic discussions and will be useful for proponents of rural tourism. --Lawal M. Marafa, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong About the Author Vikneswaran Nair is Professor and Dean, Graduate Studies & Research, University of The Bahamas, The Bahamas. Amran Hamzah is Professor and Director of the Centre for Innovative Planning and Development, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia. Ghazali Musa is Professor, Faculty of Business and Accountancy, University of Malaya, Malaysia.