ATLAS Annual Conference and Ph.D Colloqium 2010

Limassol, Cyprus, November 3 - 5, 2010

Mass tourism VS Niche tourism

 


 

  

 
Due to many requests the Scientific Committee has decided to extend the deadline for abstract submission to June 15st 2010
 

Index

- You can download the full text of the ATLAS annual conference here.
- You can download the full text of the ATLAS colloquium here


Time and place

The conference will take place in the city of Limassol, Cyprus, in the period: 3 - 5 November 2010.

The conference is organised by the Department of Hotel and Tourism Management at the Cyprus University of Technology and ATLAS, and is supported by:

Cyprus Airways Ayios Tychonas Community Board Cyprus Tourism Organisation
 
PrimeTel Synergatiko Tamieythrio (Limassol Coop Bank) Limassol Tourism Company

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Conference Themes and Call for Papers

Tourism and leisure in the 21st Century are being shaped and buffeted by many forces. The industry employs more than 220 million people worldwide and generates more than 9% of global GDP (WTTC, 2010)

Undoubtedly, the tourism industry generates substantial economic benefits to both host countries and tourists' home countries. Especially in developing countries, one of the primary motivations for a region to promote itself as a tourism destination is the expected economic improvement. As with other impacts, this massive economic development brings along both positive and negative consequences.

The impacts of tourism on people and the environment are well documented. Yet the controversies in tourism remain undocumented. One such controversy exists between the proponents and opponents of mass and niche tourism. The 2010 ATLAS conference aims to examine and give answers to two highly controversial and compelling questions:

   Mass Tourism: Is it exploitation?
   Niche Tourism or mass customisation?

The concept of "niche tourism" has emerged in recent years in counter-point to what is commonly referred to as "mass tourism" (Robinson and Novelli, 2008). Proponents of niche tourism suggest that the term 'mass tourism" is problematic to define with any precision and they claim that the term refers to the production, structure and organisation of tourism akin to an industrial process whereby economies of scale are sought to meet market needs. Poon (1993) defines mass tourism as a large-scale phenomenon, packaging and selling standardised leisure services at fixed prices to a mass clientele. Further to this Fayos-Solà (1996) went as far to suggest that the operational model of mass tourism no longer suffices to achieve competitiveness in tourism enterprises and regions and he proposed that a new paradigm, the New Age of Tourism (NAT), is gathering strength owing to its ability to face to prevailing circumstances.

On the other hand proponents of mass tourism emphasise that not only 'mass tourism: is due to revisit in terms of what the terms implies, but also that by any sensible definition the mass tourism market is growing despite the decline of the traditional mass tour operators market (Swarbrooke, 2007). Proponents of mass tourism is suggest that the term is fundamentally a concept that relates to scale and participation rates. They further claim that "we get ourselves into dangerous water when we start trying to broaden its meaning to certain types of tourist or tourism" suggesting that this has wrongly and unfairly rendered mass tourism as a term laden with negative value judgements.

According to Pons et al. (2009) the study of mass tourism is shaped through a series of paradoxes. Pons and his colleagues (2009) also argued that while the rise of mass tourism has been the subject of much attention, the focus has tended to be on the impact it has upon local peoples, local economies or local environments as well as on economic and managerial issues.

Niche tourism, on the other hand, has emerged in response to the changing tastes of consumers who are travelling more frequently, and are becoming more experienced and more discerning. This has given rise to a number of apparently new forms of tourism which are undertaken by limited numbers of tourists with special interests or hobbies and the finances to back them up (niche tourism is notoriously expensive compared to mass tourism). However, as all forms of tourism grow in popularity, it is sometimes difficult to ascertain at which point niche tourism becomes mass tourism. Cultural tourism in historic cities is a good case in point. It is interesting to debate where we can draw the line between mass and niche tourism and whether we can differentiate between tourist profiles, motivations and behaviours (for example, it is naturally assumed that niche tourists are 'good' and mass tourists are 'bad'). Such simplistic assumptions need to be challenged.

Against this background of contradicting and contrasting views abstracts for presentations are invited on the following (but not only) themes:

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Abstract submission

All abstracts will be subject to double-blind review by members of the scientific committee. Acceptance of a submission will be based on: theoretical and empirical significance; methodological soundness; relevance to the theme of the conference and logical clarity. The official language of the conference is English.

Abstracts should be submitted to ATLAS by using this form.

Abstract submission has been extended to the 15st of june 2010.

Abstracts (maximum of 500 words) should indicate background, theoretical/practical implications, methods and/or data sources and indicative findings of the paper. The title should be no more than 12 words. Authors should also indicate which of the themes of the conference their proposed paper relates to (no more than 2). Abstracts not clearly related to the themes of the conference will not be accepted.

Receipt of abstracts will be acknowledged and decisions on acceptance will be provided no later than July 5th 2010.

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Publication details

Papers presented at the conference can be submitted to ATLAS with a view to international publication. The organisers are aiming to establish three channels of publication from the event:

Full paper submission: January 5th 2011

By way of an experiment we also have the intention to publish proceedings BEFORE the conference. We would like to receive all the "papers in progress" / "working papers" / "extended abstract", and make a conference proceedings which will be distributed to all participants at the conference. The working papers should have no more then 2000 words.

Working paper submission: September 30th 2010

For inclusion in all the publications from the conference, papers will be subject to peer review. More information to follow when available.

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Important dates and deadlines

Abstract submission: June 15st, 2010
Notification of acceptance: July 5th, 2010
Extended abstract submission: September 30th, 2010
Conference: November 3 - 5, 2010
Full paper submission: January 5th, 2011

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Scientific committee

Head of organizing Committee

Local organizing committee International Scientific Committee

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Keynote speakers

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ATLAS meetings

ATLAS general members meeting and the ATLAS board meeting will take place during the conference in Limassol. We will inform all ATLAS members about the exact time and place a later stage.

Information on the SIG meetings will also be available later.

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Provisional programme

Please note that timing and content of sessions may be subject to change.

Tuesday, November 2nd

Wednesday, November 3rd

Thursday, November 4th

Friday, November 5th

Saturday, November 6th

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Doctoral Colloquium and Poster Session

Prior to the conference, on the 2nd of November 2010, a Doctoral Colloquium and Poster Session will take place for Doctoral students. You can read about this at the special Doctoral Colloquium and Poster Session website.

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Conference setting

Limassol is a lively and cosmopolitan resort located on the south coast of Cyprus. With a population of over 201,257, this makes it the second-largest city in Cyprus, largest city geographically and one of the greatest tourist locations in the Mediterranean.

Located on the coast of the Mediterranean, Limassol blooms with tourism. Renowned for its long cultural tradition, it offers much to foreign visitors Ranging from museums to archaeological sites, tourists will not be bored from what this great little resort has to offer.

Especially during the summer season, many tourists can enjoy the great weather and the sea-side adventures. A night, the fun continues, with an ecstatic nightlife and upbeat atmosphere.

More information at http://www.limassolmunicipal.com.cy/index_en.html

The Resort of Agios Tychonas

The village resort of Agios Tychonas lies just a few kilometers east of the city of Limassol. A unique beach spreads beneath it with numerous hotels and tourist facilities. Inland, the green valleys and hills add to the magnificent beauty of the landscape.

The rural part of the village with traditional houses, cultivated land, and simple natural habitat blend in quietly, yet successfully, with today’s modern look. The affect is gloriously refreshing, placing Agios Tychonas among the top tourist destinations in Cyprus. The local architecture, with its vineyards and its flower pots, ingeniously incorporate today’s sleek and efficient designs, without destroying the familiar Cypriot tradition that is sought and appreciated by so many.

The gardens, where the flowers of the land blossom around the year and permeate the air, are left to fill the air with their scent, the balconies, the winding alley ways, the taverns and the coffee shops all invite warmth, charm and friendship.

At the other end of the spectrum, the visitor is introduced to the vibrant cosmopolitan seafront where luxurious hotels, restaurants, boutiques, clubs, and tourist shops place Agios Tyhonas on par with Europe's continued growth, development and achievement.

The history of Agios Tychonas is closely connected with the ancient prosperous city of Amathunta, where some of the greatest rulers of Cyprus resided. The village is named after the second bishop of Amathunta, Tychonas, who is believed to be buried in the area.

But, as legend has it, the village was developed by Richard the Lionheart for use as a winery. Rocks from Amathunta were used to build the wine storage facilities.

St. Nicholas Church, located in the old part of the village with its 19th century icons and unique low bell tower painted blue and white, is another skillful stoke in the creation called Agios Tychonas.

The scene is completed by the stone bridge, the valleys and the hills caressing the village as well on the smell of freshly baked bread and the elderly people strolling in the morning sun wearing their traditional garments.

The village has developed dramatically in the past 25 years, but its residents have not cast away their cultural heritage and have not denied or forgotten their history in today's fast paced modern life.

Agios Tyhonas' geographical position stands as a significant starting point where, in less than one hour, it is possible to be in any part of Cyprus. Its marvelous seafront and its close proximity to Limassol, in keeping with its rural traditional character, makes Agios Tyhonas, without doubt, one of the most important tourist destinations in Cyprus.

Friendly climate, modern amenities and warm, heartfelt tradition enthrall the visitor. Agios Tyhonas is a living, growing expression of Cyprus tourism at its very best..

More information at: http://www.agiostychonas.com/english/agios_tychonas.shtml

The conference will take place at the conference facilities of Amathus Beach Hotel.

The social programme of the conference will make full use of the city and its facilities as a backdrop for what will hopefully be an interesting and pleasurable experience

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Conference venue

The opening ceremony of the conference will be held at the Evagoras Lanitis Foundation Conference Hall, next to the medieval Castle of Limassol. The newly refurbished building has a capacity of 250 people and provides state of the art audiovisual equipment and facilities. Conference delegates will be commuted to the amphitheatre by a bus service which will be provided free of charge.

The Technological University of Cyprus has set as its target to become a leading e-university, something that has determined a huge investment in IT facilities and equipment. Although there are several rooms available at the university premises for the workshops/parallel sessions, it is proposed that the workshops/presentations/parallel sessions to be held at Amathus Beavh Hotel. Amathus Beach Hotel provides the equipment required (overhead projectors, slide projectors, video screens/projectors, power point presentation facilities/beamers).

The rationale behind the above suggestion is that it will be easier for the conference delegates to commute to the conference venue (Amathus Beach Hotel) and at the same time such arrangement it will greatly assist the organising committee in carrying out the administrative tasks of the conference (dinners, excursions, transportation etc).

For the opening ceremony, due to the formality of the event and the guests/officials who will be invited (ministers, directors of various governmental agencies), it is considered as more proper for this event to take place at the Evagoras Lanitis conference Hall.

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Catering

All lunches and dinners throughout the conference, as well as the half day excursion (and Cyprus traditional theme night) are included in the conference registration package.

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IT and Conference Facilities

At the conference venue an IT room will be available with a computer, internet and printing facilities, free of charge for all the conference delegates. The room will be available on a 24 hour basis.

SMOKING

Smoking is strictly prohibited in all enclosed public places including restaurants and night clubs. The conference venue (Amathus Beach Hotel) has designated smoking areas.

INSURANCE

It is recommended that participants arrange insurance for medical expenses, loss of personal belongings and accidents occurring during the conference. ATLAS and the Cyprus University of Technology will not be held responsible for any losses, damages or injuries.

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Dietary requirements

Please let us know of any dietary requirements at least one week before the start of the conference. We will try to satisfy all needs. Conference menus will be provided on the website later.

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Post Conference Optional Study Visits

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Conference packages

Packages: ATLAS members Non-Members
Participants
  • Free transportation to and from Larnaca Airport
  • Conference participation and materials
  • Buffet lunches
  • Tea/coffee breaks
  • Welcome reception Tuesday
  • Dinners Wednesday and Thursday evening
  • Wednesday tour at the old city of Limassol and the Cyprus University of Technology
  • Thursday excursion
€ 350 € 400
Doctoral students
  • Free transportation to and from Larnaca Airport
  • Conference participation and materials
  • Buffet lunches
  • Tea/coffee breaks
  • Welcome reception Tuesday
  • Dinners Wednesday and Thursday evening
  • Wednesday tour at the old city of Limassol and the Cyprus University of Technology
  • Thursday excursion
€ 200 € 250
Companions
  • Free transportation to and from Larnaca Airport
  • Welcome reception Tuesday
  • Dinners Wednesday and Thursday evening
  • Wednesday tour at the old city of Limassol and the Cyprus University of Technology
  • Thursday excursion
€ 200 € 200

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Cancellation policy

If written cancellation is received on or before September 15th, 2010, a refund of all meeting fees will be made, minus an administration fee of € 25.

No refund will be possible after September 15th 2010, but substitute delegates can be nominated.

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Conference organisers

The conference will be organised by ATLAS in partnership with the Cyprus University of Technology, the Cyprus Tourism Organisation, Cyprus Airways and the Local Authority of Ayios Tychonas.

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Recommended hotels

The conference has made special agreements with three hotels (5*, 4* and 3* hotels). Special rates have been agreed with these hotels (see below). Conference delegates can also make their own booking arrangements with other accommodation establishments. Useful information can be found on the website of the Cyprus Hotel Association (www.cyprushotelassociation.org) and the Association of Cyprus Tourism Enterprises (www.acte.com.cy)

You are able to check in from 13:00 on your day of arrival. If you arrive earlier that the aforementioned time, you will be able to leave your luggage at the reception.

You have to check out by 12:00 on your day of departure. If required, you will be able to leave your luggage behind reception and collect it when you return to the hotel for your transfer to the airport.

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Getting to Cyprus

Many major airlines offer regular flights to Cyprus' two major airports, Larnaca (LCA) and Paphos (PFO):

Delegates travelling from outside of Europe should be able to fly to any major European airport for connecting flights to Cyprus.

Below is a list of airlines that fly to Cyprus. Please note that these airlines and routes are correct as of December 2009 but may be subject to change. Please check with the airlines.

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Transfer Services and Transport in Cyprus

Transfer services will be available to the delegates at no extra charge between Larnaca Airport and the hotels on Tuesday and Wednesday (November 2nd and 3rd), Saturday and Sunday (November 6th and 7th). Number of transfers will depend on the number of delegates arriving/leaving on this day. Please mention your flight schedule on the registration form.

Transfer services will also be available to the delegates between the hotels and the conference venue.

If you choose to hire a car upon arrival, please note that there is ample free parking at the conference hotels.

Conference delegates that would like to make their own transfer arrangements will find the following information very useful:

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More information on Cyprus, Limassol and Ayios Tychonas

  
Pafos Akamas Limassol by day

For information on Cyprus, please view: www.visitcyprus.com
For information on Limassol, please view: www.limassolcyprus.net/, or look at www.limassol.com/
For information on Ayios Tychonas, please view: www.agiostychonas.com/

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Useful information

More useful information can be found here.

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Registration

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