Souvenirs in Tourism Studies: A Thematic Analytical Framework

Abstract

Among the most common cultural tourism consumption practices is the purchase of products as souvenirs, frequently acquired as symbols of local heritage and extension of memorable tourist experiences, and sometimes as gifts permitting a sharing of those experiences. These items are complex, diverse, and multidimensional in their nature, format, and meanings. This article contributes to the debate of the role of souvenirs within tourism, through a comprehensive literature review highlighting two dominant perspectives: a) the economic and b) the symbolic. Results further reveal as thematic research categories those focusing on a) the object, b) its consumption, and c) the territory of its origin, from both mainly economic and symbolic perspectives. This research provides an analytical framework to help researchers navigate through past research and integrate new contributions into the identified research streams. It shall help identify research gaps, potential new themes, and interesting and relevant approaches to be considered in future souvenirs research.