Abstract

SILVA, Luís. The demand for tourism in rural areas. Etnográfica [online]. 2007, vol.11, n.1, pp.141-163. ISSN 0873-6561.

This article deals with the demand for tourism in rural areas (TRA) in Portugal, presenting the results of research developed in Continental Portugal and, particularly, in three village contexts. We conclude that the demand is mainly performed by middle class urbanites with two main goals: to break free from everyday life and to reenergize in the countryside. The countryside is, for these urban dwellers, a kind of paradise on Earth that incorporates many of the virtues believed to be inexistent in the cities: tranquillity, nature, tradition and authenticity. Lodging in TRA houses is a decisive step for their desired immersion in rural idyll, wether in rustic houses, manor-houses or palace-like houses.

Keywords : Tourism in rural areas; folk architecture; rural idyll; pastoral; history; authenticity.

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