ABSTRACT
The term ‘social tourism’ describes the phenomenon of the provision of ‘supported holidays’ for those who would not normally otherwise be able to enjoy leisure tourism. Regular holidaymaking is regarded as a norm by many in the wealthier countries of Europe. Policy measures in the field of social tourism are intended to extend the benefits of vacations to disadvantaged individuals, households and social groups unable to participate in this activity. Despite the acknowledged benefits derived from participation in leisure tourism in personal, family and broader social welfare terms, about 40 percent of all EU citizens take no holidays. The reason most commonly suggested for this is a lack of available resources, most immediately monetary resources, but other factors including personal experience and abilities may also be relevant. The phenomenon of social tourism may be traced back for a century or more, and its very existence provides interesting perspectives upon the more familiar and glamorous commercial tourism industry and on holidaymaking as a social activity. However, social tourism has largely been overlooked in the academic literature and popular awareness of the concept also remains very limited.
