The Regional Program for Asia and the Pacific of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) embarks upon a research on domestic tourism which is becoming one of the priority areas in its program of work, and the research will consequently result in a UNWTO publication. The research will focus on the factors of the resilience of domestic tourism that affect international market, as well as the socio-economic impact to national development agenda.

The main objective of the study is to provide a real picture of domestic tourism and its significant role in the sector’s resilience, especially in times of crisis by sustaining services and jobs, offsetting the loss of inbound tourism and reducing disparity amongst regions’ development. Consequently, it will enhance the related stakeholders’ awareness of domestic tourism as a crucial contributor to the socio-economic development of the country.

The study will serve as practical guidelines for a more holistic and sustainable development of domestic tourism in Asia and the Pacific region. In addition, the best practice cases in terms of policies, strategies and product development by national and regional governments, as well as public and private organizations will be highlighted.

Therefore, we invite all interested parties to submit an expression of interest by 31st of October, 2011 at the latest* to asiastudy@unwto.org. Contributions are welcome from, but not limited to, academics, public institutions (governmental, public-private partnerships), non-profit institutions (NGOs, civil society, etc.) and any other stakeholders interested in the topic. The selected contributors will be acknowledged and the source of information will be attached as annexes to the final report of the study according to the UNWTO Publication Guidelines.

Regional Programme for Asia and the Pacific
World Tourism Organization (UNWTO)
Calle Poeta Joan Maragall 42
28020 Madrid, Spain

For further information, or to send an expression of interest, please contact:

Ms. Hyeon Jin Lee
Email: asiastudy@unwto.org

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* Once the expression of interest is received, contributors will be contacted for further information.