Phys. Geog. Geom. 2025, 48(2): 25–30

https://doi.org/10.17721/phgg.2025.48.2/130.02

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On the issue of creating a modern classification of tourist destination 

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Mariana О. Komlieva

Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, 64/13, Volodymyrska St., Kyiv, 01601, Ukraine

 

Abstract

Classifications are widely used in scientific research. They can be the result of empirical research and created a priori according to certain rules. In tourism studies, these approaches are combined. The main criteria used in tourism classifications are its purpose, functions, geography, spatial and temporal characteristics, and the dynamics of tourist flows (directions, intensity, duration, seasonality), logistics (travel, accommodation, food), the socio-demographic composition of tourists, and the nature of the organization and financing of trips. Complete classifications of tourism include dozens or hundreds of indicators, but in practice, only the most relevant and significant ones are usually used, which requires the introduction of an additional synthesizing feature. Tourism studies discuss the need to create a unified classification of tourism, which should be analytical and synthetic in nature. The classification should be based on the main indicator - the purpose of the trip to satisfy the most important constant human needs - rest (recovery), health improvement, and treatment. However, society and individuals are constantly evolving, and new needs are emerging, which are increasingly generated by the mental sphere. In our opinion, the trends that are emerging here allow us to introduce a criterion of significance of the type of tourism from the perspective of the current and future needs of humanity on our planet and divide them into 4 groups: traditional (the same in all countries); traditional, but specific and exclusive in certain countries (national); futuristic (currently perceived by society as extreme, unique, etc.), developed by the most active representatives of humanity). They are shown in the table compiled by the author. This article examines a group of future types of tourism destinations in the People's Republic of China.

Keywords

Tourismology, classification of tourism, tourist destination, future types of tourism  

 

Received: July 16, 2025 / Accepted: July 29, 2025 / Published online: December 30, 2025