ABSTRACT
Demand by tourists for a better understanding of the realities of the countries and regions visited is growing throughout the world. In response to this demand an alternative tourism movement has been actively redefining tourism in order to recapture its original spirit of connecting people, building solidarity among peoples and facilitating intercultural exchange. Palestine is well placed to respond to this demand and this chapter argues that there is an urgent need to turn attention towards this “alternative” market niche. Based on experience of directing the Alternative Tourism Group (ATG) from Beit Sahour, Palestine, the chapter will outline the potential of alternative tourism which best fit within the Palestinian context; particularly what could be called “advocacy tourism” and fair trade in tourism, which contribute to more just forms of tourism development. This is then related directly to the present and future tourism industry in Palestine. In so doing it challenges the monopoly imposed by Israel in the tourism industry, as well as raising tourist awareness about Palestine and the peace with justice issues facing Palestinians.
