Geography of leisure and tourism research in the German-speaking world: three pillars to progress

Abstract

The development of leisure and tourism research in the German-speaking world shows a number of distinct stages. The origins of tourism research can be traced back to Hans Poser and his analyses of tourism in the Riesengebirge in 1939 (today Krkonosze, Krkonoše). His main focus was on the landscape as a setting for tourism. He considered the analysis of the interactions between landscape and the holidaymaking public the main task of geography. In contrast, ‘Geography of Leisure Behaviour’, from the so-called Munich School, placed more emphasis on people and leisure-based human behaviour. Current approaches focus on applied issues such as sustainable tourism and spatial carrying capacity, as well as current societal changes and the ensuing changes in supply and demand. Another current focus of research is the significance of geographical space for leisure and tourism. This is no longer limited to physical space, but also includes so-called ‘action space’, perceived space and even virtual space. Notwithstanding the many special trends that result from the increasing fragmentation of society, the main task of geography of tourism and leisure must remain to support sustainable development and take a holistic view of leisure and tourism.