Native Tours

Book excerpt: Previous editions of Native Tours provided a much-needed overview and analysis of anthropology's contributions to tourism as an emerging field of study. Such a cultural perspective illuminated key ideas surrounding worldwide host–guest relations and informed discussions of political and economic influences and the impacts, both negative and positive, of tourism as one of the world's largest industries. Applying a characteristically uncluttered, authoritative writing style alongside an exceptional command of the relevant literature, Chambers updates, refines, and extends his earlier work. He retains a focus on the social, cultural, economic, and environmental consequences of tourism, and provides a framework for understanding tourism initiatives in their particular circumstances. Three detailed case studies originating in the American Southwest, the Tirolean Alps, and Belize illustrate the varied costs and benefits of tourism.