The rise of astrotourism
Astrotourism is being billed as the next big thing, with Lonely Planet announcing dark skies as one of the travel trends of 2019.
Visitor interest in dark skies tourism and astrotourism has prompted many international destinations to capitalise of this natural asset as a new and unique way to draw visitors to their region especially outside peak season.
But what is a dark sky? A dark sky is usually a park a distance from a city and has restricted artificial light to allow for the area to be suitable for star gazing.
Be it dark sky observance, astronomy or astrophotography, people increasingly traveling to ‘dark sky’ locations leading to astrotourism phenomenon.
With Australian skies still some of the darkest on the planet, this is a great opportunity for regional and remote tourism across the nation.
And it doesn’t have to complex. If you have an accommodation property tucked away from light pollution, simply provide your guests with binoculars and a star constellation map, or encourage them to download the free SkyView Ap and you are off and running.
Let’s face it, who doesn’t like to look at the stars, all while feeling good about being a low-impact tourist.
#Astrotourism #LowImpactTourism #DestinationMarketing
Written by: Alison McDowell, Founder Roadmap Strategy
