- Research Article
- 10.25145/j.pasos.2026.24.015
- Jan 1, 2026
- PASOS. Revista de Turismo y Patrimonio Cultural
- Jennifer Pinar Pinar + 3 more
The present research study aims at gauging the level of knowledge and attraction of the Natural Park of the Lagunas de La Mata and Torrevieja (Alicante), as well as to delve into the determining factors for visiting them from within the evolving framework of 3S destinations, and the need to establish new approaches towards diversification and enhanced quality of coastal tourism, by complemtation with undervalued resources that promote sustainable products and services. To this end, this research uses a combined methodology based on a review of the scientific literature relating to protected natural areas and their potential to diversify, differentiate and qualify tourist destinations. In addition, quantitative and qualitative techniques are used, specifically the design of a structured questionnaire aimed at potential visitors to this protected natural area in southeastern Spain, as well as in‐depth interviews with agents directly related to the management and promotion of this natural area. As main results, this work underlines the importance of taking into account the tourist motivations and highlights the relevance of taking advantage of the attractiveness of ornithology as a first level tourist resource.
- Research Article
- 10.25145/j.pasos.2026.24.012
- Jan 1, 2026
- PASOS. Revista de Turismo y Patrimonio Cultural
- Claudia Dávila‑Valdés + 1 more
Tourism to the archaeological site of Chichen Itzá has transformed the Mexican town of Pisté‐de- ‐Chichen Itzá on the Yucatan Peninsula. This article is directed at assessing the vulnerability caused bythe economic dependence on tourism that this population experiences, especially in times of disasters (Sars‐CoV2 pandemic) and crisis (the Mayan Train). 22 semi structured interviews were conducted with inhabitants of Piste working in tourism. The results show that the adaptive strategies that the inhabitants of Pisté put in place when faced with the total suspension of tourism in the archaeological site of Chichen Itzá due to the SARS‐CoV2 were solidarity, the return to local agricultural products such as the milpa and the sale of various other products. However, as soon as Chichen Itza reopened, they returned to their activities in tourism. At present, the inhabitants are experiencing vulnerability again as it is unclear to them how tourism will be reorganised with the advent of the Mayan Train. Findings confirm the vulnerability of the locals, their low negotiating power and their scarce control over their means of subsistence.
- Research Article
- 10.25145/j.pasos.2026.24.007
- Jan 1, 2026
- PASOS. Revista de Turismo y Patrimonio Cultural
- Lorena Isabel Márquez González + 1 more
This paper analyses the conflicts of cultural appropriation in the case of the Pyramids of The Güímar Ethnographic Park (Tenerife), highlighting the tension between the local narratives and those presented to tourism. While the complex presents the structures as possible connections between ancient civilisations, the local population recognises them as majanos, agricultural constructions used to clear land or dry fruit. After application of an ethnographic approach, it is evident that the reinterpretation for tourism has produced a double appropriation: symbolic, in that it imposes new narratives, and physical, through the fencing off and transformation of space. Although some residents, especially those with economic interests, have partially assimilated the narrative presented to the tourists, the majority perceive the park as an exogenous development, totally unrelated to their identity, which produces passive resistance and detachment. The study concludes that the lack of local participation in the design of tourism limits its acceptance and reinforces the conflict of cultural legitimacy
- Research Article
- 10.25145/j.pasos.2026.24.019
- Jan 1, 2026
- PASOS. Revista de Turismo y Patrimonio Cultural
- Camila Teixeira
The book “Turismo Responsável: resultados que inspiram!”, published in 2024, is an important contribution to the understanding of responsible tourism. Developed through a partnership between the Inter‐American Development Bank (IDB) and the Brazilian Ministry of Tourism, it examines the social, economic, and environmental transformations influencing contemporary tourism. The book is organized into five chapters. The first introduces the theoretical foundations of responsible tourism and its emergence as a response to mass tourism impacts. The second chapter discusses implementation strategies, while the third presents case studies illustrating practical applications. The fourth chapter highlights exemplary initiatives developed in Brazil, emphasizing community involvement and innovation. The final chapter offers practical recommendations and concluding reflections. The work successfully combines theoretical discussion with practical examples, addressing key issues such as alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals, inclusion of local communities in tourism planning, and innovation as a driver of change. Although it lacks quantitative impact indicators and a broader international perspective, the book remains a valuable resource for academics, policymakers, and tourism professionals interested in ethical and sustainable tourism.
- Research Article
- 10.25145/j.pasos.2026.24.020
- Jan 1, 2026
- PASOS. Revista de Turismo y Patrimonio Cultural
- Xerardo Pereiro
In this critical review, I present an analysis of an ethnography of the Portuguese hotel industry from within, which shows, in a very refined way, the organisational structure, the interdependent relationships between people and organisations, the contradictions and situations of self‐exploitation and labour exploitation in an activity mythologised and idealised by the tourist lobby. The book shows the hotel as an “imperfect place disguised as perfection” (Brasão, 2007: 9) full of light and shade, joys and sorrows, and above all, of human relationships that build complex cultures of hospitality.
- Research Article
- 10.25145/j.pasos.2026.24.011
- Jan 1, 2026
- PASOS. Revista de Turismo y Patrimonio Cultural
- Laura Daniela Guayan Díaz + 2 more
Adventure tourism became one of the typologies with the highest demand in the world, however the inadequate practice of some of these activities has caused irreparable accidents in the physical integrity of tourists. Therefore, this research identified the causes of risk in adventure tourism activities in Colombia, adapting a qualitative methodology of a descriptive type. Semi-structured interviews were also conducted with key players in the sector. It was found that the departments of Santander, Magdalena, Valle and Antioquia are the main territories where accidents occur in this typology, simultaneously it was identified that the activities with the highest accident rate are paragliding, horseback riding and trekking. Despite the fact that there are extensive regulations in the adventure segment, which since 2015 is mandatory, deficiencies continue to occur in the tourist operation, putting the integrity of the user at risk.
- Research Article
- 10.25145/j.pasos.2026.24.018
- Jan 1, 2026
- PASOS. Revista de Turismo y Patrimonio Cultural
- Caio Schettino De Meirelles Maia
Creative tourism is conceptualised as a theoretical‐practical construct of significant relevance at the intersection of creativity, sustainability,and economic development, with profound implications for the tourism sector. This critical analysis revisits its epistemological foundations and empirical applicability, emphasising its role in cultural valorisation, social inclusion and territorial requalification. Through an examination of international case studies, the research elucidates how co‐creation between visitors and host communities can foster meaningful experiences and catalyse economic diversification. Methodologically, an interdisciplinary approach is adopted, integrating insights from the creative economy, cultural management,and contemporary theories of sustainable tourism. The findings highlight that creative tourism enhances the systemic resilience of destinations, driving innovation and deepening community engagement. However, challenges such as infrastructural deficiencies and cultural barriers still require mitigation strategies. It is concluded that strengthening this approach requires robust public policies and intersectoral synergies, ensuring a dynamic balance between economic growth and heritage preservation.
- Research Article
- 10.25145/j.pasos.2026.24.004
- Jan 1, 2026
- PASOS. Revista de Turismo y Patrimonio Cultural
- Nilda Rosa Barrutia Montoya + 2 more
Tourism companies seek to establish a deep and lasting connection with their customers, thus boosting their loyalty. The purpose of this study was to analyze the influence of customer experience management (CEM) on the generation of customer engagement (CE) in tourism companies in central and southern Peru. With a quantitative approach, a population of 1,634,128 users of tourism services and a sample of 2,359 individuals surveyed through anonymous electronic forms, whose data were subjected to ordinal logistic regression, the results showed that CEM has a significant influence on CE, explaining 20.5% of its variability and important influence in the dimensions of CE: 17.0% in the cognitive, 11.5% in the behavioral and 23.7% in the emotional. In conclusion, it is confirmed that CEM is important to develop a high‐value engagement in the tourism sector, being the emotional connections with users the initial point to be strengthened.
- Research Article
- 10.25145/j.pasos.2026.24.009
- Jan 1, 2026
- PASOS. Revista de Turismo y Patrimonio Cultural
- Manuel Garcia‑Ruiz
Light festivals have become key instruments in cultural and economic urban development, especially at the municipal level. This paper explores the evolution of light festivals in Portugal, through ethnographic research conducted from 2015 to 2023, focusing on festivals in Lisbon, Cascais, Lousada, Loulé and Aveiro. The study examines their roles in urban regeneration, tourism and cultural identity. Using participant observation, interviews and digital archival research, the research identifies the key phases in the growth of these festivals and contextualises their local impact. Findings highlight how these events contribute to the local economies, while fostering community engagement and influencing city branding. The discussion addresses the challenges of sustainability, commodification and political instrumentalisation of light festivals as tools for urban transformation.
- Research Article
- 10.25145/j.pasos.2026.24.013
- Jan 1, 2026
- PASOS. Revista de Turismo y Patrimonio Cultural
- Angel Boris Tornés Coterón + 2 more
In Cuba, the Cuban technical standard NC 127:2014 establishes requirements for the classification by categories of newly built tourist accommodation establishments. However, specific requirements for classifying heritage tourist accommodation by category have not been established. The objective of this research is to propose a Cuban technical standard of requirements for the classification by categories of tourist accommodation in valuable heritage buildings. The authors conducted a literature review to establish the characteristics and requirements of this type of accommodation. In addition, consultation was made with experts on categorisation and tourism to increase the validity of the characteristics and requirements identified from the preliminary statistical analysis. The proposed technical standard contains the necessary requirements for the classification of heritage tourist accommodation distributed over nine critical areas.