The touristification of the port area in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: for a Located Tourism in Morro da Conceição

Abstract

This paper is supported by analysis and reflections on a concept of differentiated and essentially relational tourism which takes into account the complexity, diversity and contingencies associated with the local dynamics in the area of the Morro da Conceição, in the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The theoretical approach was based on the proposals of two authors: Symbolic Site of Belonging and Located Tourism of Hassan Zaoual and Geographic Area of Milton Santos. The empirical approach was developed in the light of the experiences of the Project Palacios do Rio, through participatory observations, interviews and secondary sources review. Elements and dynamics of Morro da Conceição were presented highlighting the historical context, heritage and daily life of residents and visitors of the site, and also conditions that enable the site for embracing Located Tourism. In conclusion we emphasize the importance of addressing human and social relations in tourism. Also, that the current dominant tourism industry, supported by superficial exchange and discrepant profit needs to give way to a kind of tourism that strengthens human and social values such as authenticity, solidarity, trust, empathy, curiosity and time for human relationship.