Environment
Aditi Nag; Anurag Singh Rathore
Abstract
This research is focused on analyzing the possibilities and challenges of developing tourism in mining heritage cities (MHCs) within conflict areas. These cities simultaneously have vibrant historical and cultural resources and tourism possibilities in the context of security threats and infrastructural ...
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This research is focused on analyzing the possibilities and challenges of developing tourism in mining heritage cities (MHCs) within conflict areas. These cities simultaneously have vibrant historical and cultural resources and tourism possibilities in the context of security threats and infrastructural inadequacy, which usually characterize conflict areas. The study aims to find ways of boosting tourism competitiveness for such areas with a specific interest in formulating sustainable tourist management policies that foster community involvement and cultural heritage protection. The case study analyzes different conflict areas, representing the best practices and the most effective way of exploiting heritage in mining and luring tourist attractions based on the authentic experience. The results exhibit how tourism can serve as an agent towards economic recovery and social empowerment and acts towards peacebuilding in conflict-affected areas. This study furnishes pragmatic recommendations for legislators, the tourism sector, and community members to favor a more robust and inclusive tourism model that benefits the local community and cultural heritage conservation. Finally, the paper underlines the need to understand the complexity of tourism in conflict areas, using some invisible resources for renewal and growth.
Environment
Aditi Nag; Anurag Singh Rathore
Abstract
The tourism industry is experiencing a profound transformation driven by digital innovations such as virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and interactive platforms. This paper explores how these technologies are reshaping destination competitiveness, with a specific focus on the mining heritage ...
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The tourism industry is experiencing a profound transformation driven by digital innovations such as virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and interactive platforms. This paper explores how these technologies are reshaping destination competitiveness, with a specific focus on the mining heritage sites (MHSs). By leveraging VR and AR, heritage sites can offer immersive and interactive experiences that enhance visitor engagement, and broaden their reach. Through a case-study analysis, this work examines successful implementations of digital tourism initiatives at various MHSs including the Big Pit National Coal Museum, the Mining Museum of Slovenia, the Mining Museum of the West, the Erzgebirge Mining Region, and the Mesabi Iron Ore Mines. The findings reveal that digital tools significantly improve accessibility, educational value, and global appeal of these sites. However, challenges such as the technical and financial constraints remain. The paper concludes with recommendations for practitioners on integrating digital technologies effectively and suggestions for future research to explore long-term impacts and emerging trends. This work underscores the transformative potential of digital innovation in enhancing the competitiveness and sustainability of tourism destinations.
