Industrialization, free trade (with policies of high and extensive protectionism being abandoned), widespread growth in wealth and leisure, increased environmental awareness, growing conflict among competing land use interests, ageing populations, the reduced ‘tyranny of distance’ in people’s travel plans, inconsistent farm incomes and declining agricultural employment, and many other factors have served to change the face and structure of rural economies and the lifestyles of rural people. In addition, people’s expectations of rural areas are changing as greater emphasis is given to the conservation and maintenance of natural and cultural heritage (including the rights of indigenous people). In short, economic, environmental and social developments and issues are putting increasingly varied and complex pressures on rural areas in many countries. In this light it should therefore not be surprising that tourism and food production are seen as potentially significant sources of economic development in rural areas. Long seen as only a ‘bit part’ or ‘minor’ industry in terms of national development, tourism has now assumed centre stage as a major source of foreign income and overseas investment, and as a key component in regional development strategies. The reasons for the change of attitude towards tourism by politicians, business and the public are complex, but several reasons can be put forward. First, most rural areas in Western countries have suffered major recessions and concerns over foreign debt since the late 1970s. International tourism, in particular, is seen as a mechanism to help boost exports incomes. Second, economic deregulation and the impacts of globalization have affected ‘traditional’ employment in the manufacturing and agricultural sectors. Tourism is seen as a ‘sunrise’ industry that is labour intensive and therefore offers the potential to be a substantial source of employment. Finally, many rural areas in Western countries have become significant destinations for international travellers in both global and regional terms as well as domestic travellers in increasingly urbanized societies. In short, much public and private attention has been directed to tourism’s economic potential.
Food Tourism Defined: In Search of the Lost Taste
