Introduction to Religious Tourism and Globalization: Challenges of Religious Tourism in a Global World

This introductory chapter embarks on a journey to explore the dynamic interplay of globalization and its effects on religious tourism. It endeavours to uncover both the positive and the negative impacts of this intersection. The chapter delves into the profound significance of the quest for identity and transformative experiences, shedding light on how globalization reshapes notions of personal and social identity, as well as the transformative essence of pilgrimage. The chapter covers a critical reassessment of globalization’s influence on religious tourism, spanning shifts in values, the adoption of new rituals and practices among pilgrims, changes in traditions, the embrace of technological innovations, the emergence of innovative business models, and a host of environmental and sociocultural changes. Further, it offers a glimpse into the overarching themes and contemporary case studies covered in the subsequent chapters of this book. It emphasizes the extensive transformation of the pilgrimage experience in response to the novel challenges posed by our globalized world. The aim of the book is to provide valuable insights into the realms of globalization and virtualization, shifts in religiosity, consumerism, cultural assimilation and the evolving global religious landscape.

https://doi.org/10.1079/9781800623675.0000