It’s September which means the rhythm of my work-year moves into busy-busy mode. I’m fully ready for it after the gift of a leisurely, restful summer.
Sometimes, I find all the talk about how overwhelming and challenging our times are really takes over. This summer, I got to step away from work and ‘the devices’ for a while and it seemed to make space for wonder and joy instead. Just a few examples: the positivity of the World Cup beaming from North America (especially the heroics of Cape Verde), the mass emotion of Mayo’s All-Ireland Win, the natural wonder of the Solar Eclipse, the joy and restorative power of the Fleadh Cheoil in Belfast…
They all seemed to be about people coming together, being part of something bigger than themselves, finding joy in who they were and where they were from and what they could do together. People and places still have it!
I also took my first solo holiday and spent most of it walking in majestic Co. Kerry – another absolute joy. I had lots of time to think. Added to that, The Tourism Space will be ten years old next year. Over the last few months, I invested a little in the office: new layout and furniture, big whiteboards and lovely art, separate spaces for online delivery, thinking and writing. It felt like making a fresh commitment to the next phase of work and it really made me think about what I was investing in and what I was committing to.
I blame all of that for the question that caught me by surprise when I sat down to write this month’s article: Do I still believe in regenerative tourism?
My attempt to answer it has made September's article a little longer than usual so definitely grab a cuppa! Do send me a message if you read it and it sparks anything for you.
Beir bua
A few years ago, Regenerative Tourism seemed to be gathering real momentum. This year, it seems to spark less curiosity and commitment.
This month, I reflect on what I believe about it myself, why I believe it and what the potential course of the future might be. I'm thinking especially what that asks of tourism leaders working within the very real constraints of policy, targets and economic expectations.
I’d love to hear your thoughts on this whole topic so please do drop me a message.
