Patterns of tourism phenomena
The operation of the cultural process represents, arguably, the key aspects of any study of tourism from a geographic perspective. In simplistic terms, a cultural process is a series of human activities or operations that either modify or maintain an environment. The process varies in magnitude, time and frequency and can encourage patterns of either concentration or dispersal. The variation in intensity or magnitude over time (temporal variation) results in changes which are reflected in the character of the landscape (see Figure 4). Tourist development occurs when elements interact to produce patterns of tourism phenomena (human-made features of a landscape). In Christchurch, these patterns result primarily from interactions between numerous natural (biophysical), economic and social/cultural elements.
Spatial variations are differences in the patterns of phenomena created by the tourism process. Variations in the patterns of attractions, accommodation types, souvenir shops and restaurants result from variations like hotel concentration around Cathedral Square. These variations result from interactions between the economic element relating to the economic advantage of the location, and the cultural element involving the advantage of Christchurch Cathedral being a representation of the city's heritage. Spatial variations also occur in the location of restaurants and bars.
Patterns of tourism phenomena are shown on Figure 4 (Adapted from J. Gunn).
References
Gunn J. HOD Geography Department, Riccarton High School.
Learning activities
- Study Figure 4 and make a generalisation on the location of tourism phenomena in Christchurch.
- What examples of concentration and dispersal of tourism phenomena can you see from Figure 4?
- Since you first began High School, what variations in the spatial patterns of the inner city of Christchurch can you identify?