Myths and Legends in Tourism Marketing: A Journey Through Ancient Narratives in the Digital Age
摘要
Intangible heritage and cultural tourism are two sides of a coin. Culture and heritage are intangible assets that enrich tourist experiences. Recently, there has been a growing interest in promoting intangible heritage as a unique and authentic tourist attraction. Intangible heritage serves as the core attribute of a cultural heritage destination that increases its value, attractiveness, and admiration among visitors. It is represented by the eagerness of people for knowledge and exploration, or a belief that broadens the cultural horizon with the intangible cultural heritage. It encompasses traditions, knowledge, rituals, and practices passed down through generations, which hold deep cultural and social significance. These intangible elements produce a feeling of identity and authenticity, drawing tourists to explore diverse and meaningful stories of a place, fostering mutual understanding, and promoting sustainable tourism. The adoption of technologies like Artificial Intelligence, holograms, and immersive systems in heritage elements results in the enrichment of the heritage tourism experience. Tourism demands these experiential elements in the consumption process of heritage tourism products. This chapter explores how myth and reality contribute to the cultural identity of heritage tourism destinations. In an increasingly globalized world, intangible heritage offers a path to connect with the roots of humanity and foster mutual respect and understanding among different societies. Marketing intangible heritage, such as myths, legends, and poems, is a powerful tool to showcase the depth and richness of a culture. Every cultural destination has inherent narrative themes that can attract tourists. By leveraging digital tools, storytelling, and community engagement, destinations can create compelling experiences that enrich tourists’ understanding of diverse cultures and sustainably contribute to the development of the communities. This also offers a unique opportunity to transport visitors to another time and place. This article explores the power of using these narratives to market tourism, creating an immersive experience that links tourists to the culture of intangible heritage. By unlocking the magic of these narratives, destinations can ensure their timeless stories continue to be told and cherished for generations to come.