Forthcoming and Online First Articles

International Journal of Tourism Anthropology

International Journal of Tourism Anthropology (IJTA)

Forthcoming articles have been peer-reviewed and accepted for publication but are pending final changes, are not yet published and may not appear here in their final order of publication until they are assigned to issues. Therefore, the content conforms to our standards but the presentation (e.g. typesetting and proof-reading) is not necessarily up to the Inderscience standard. Additionally, titles, authors, abstracts and keywords may change before publication. Articles will not be published until the final proofs are validated by their authors.

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International Journal of Tourism Anthropology (2 papers in press)

Regular Issues

  • Backpacker Umrah, Is It Protected? A Netnography Study   Order a copy of this article
    by Nanang Setiawan, A.A. Gde Satia Utama, Noorlailie Soewarno 
    Abstract: Backpacker Umrah has become a popular phenomenon in Indonesia, especially in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Backpacker Umrah is a self-organised pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia without using a travel company. Despite ongoing debates and controversies, backpacker Umrah continues to be in high demand among the Indonesian population. This study aims to explore the backpacker Umrah phenomenon in Indonesia, examining why and how it occurs and aspects related to protecting pilgrims from potential fraud and other risks. The study employs netnographic methods, utilising online platform data from WhatsApp groups and Facebook communities. Research on backpacker Umrah remains limited, making this study particularly novel. This study contributes to the advancement and development of tourism anthropology literacy through online ethnography using social media, particularly in the literature on Backpacker Umrah and Hajj and Umrah travel. It also contributes by providing recommendations for preventing and mitigating potential Umrah fraud.
    Keywords: Backpacker Umrah; Umrah Fraud; Fraud; Netnography; Social Media; Saudi Arabia.
    DOI: 10.1504/IJTA.2025.10069611
     
  • Simulated Tourism: Learning from the Authenticity of the Fake at Chancay's Castle   Order a copy of this article
    by Cristina Dreifuss-Serrano, Sebastián Arenas Alvarez-Calderón 
    Abstract: This paper examines the phenomenon of ersatz tourism within the context of theme parks, focusing on Chancay Castle in north Lima, Peru. By revising theories on simulated tourism and theme parks, the study investigates the relationship between the objectives of the administration, visitors' perceptions, and motivations to visit and revisit the castle. Through non-participative observation, a visitor survey, and in-depth interviews we assess the castle's authenticity as perceived by visitors and its cultural and educational significance. Drawing on the concept of experience-generating tourism, we highlight the role of meaningful utility, surprise, and engagement in creating memorable experiences for visitors. We also explore the concepts of authenticity and simulation within the theme park industry, emphasizing the visitors' experiences and expectations. The findings reveal that Chancay Castle, despite its staged authenticity, provides cultural and educational experiences that stimulate visitors' curiosity and desire to learn more.
    Keywords: Theme parks; authenticity; ersatz attractions; cultural experience; simulation; learning experience; visitor perceptions; cultural tourism; kitsch; simulated tourism; architecture.
    DOI: 10.1504/IJTA.2025.10070074