Gender Issues in Tourism

Gender and Tourism: Understanding Male and Female Tourist Behavior, is an in-depth comparative study identifying the preferences, participation, duties and responsibilities of male and female tourists. The research has investigated the gender roles of tourists and gendered consumer-decision making in vacation decisions. A comparative sample of Indian and Foreign male and female tourists has helped to identify if cultural differences and gender status in society effects travel choices and behaviour. The study also explores assumptions and perceptions related to use of gender images in tourism marketing. The work demonstrates that in contemporary times males and females participate equally in decision making for travel and jointly undertake responsibilities in travel planning. However, gender is a detrimental factor that accounts for differences between males and females in preference for different forms of tourism and participation in different kinds of tourism activities. It is anticipated that the findings of this work will appeal to both researchers and practitioners of tourism who are interested in understanding the gender segments of the tourism market.