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IN SHORT
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In a world where mass tourism is often synonymous with crowds, waiting and rapid consumption, sociologist Jacinthe Bessière highlights a booming alternative: the van. With the rise of concerns related to environmental impact and the quest for authenticity, more and more travelers are turning to this mode of travel. The van not only offers freedom of movement, but also the possibility of immersing yourself in preserved landscapes, far from the beaten track. Bessière explores the motivations for this trend, revealing how the van becomes a true haven of peace for those who wish to escape the uniformity and overconsumption of traditional tourism.
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A new way of thinking about vacations #
The rise in popularity of converted vans demonstrates a profound evolution in travelers’ expectations. Individuals are now seeking to escape traditional models of mass tourism, promoting a more authentic and personalized experience. It is in this context that Jacinthe Bessiere, sociologist at Jean-Jaurès University, analyzes this emerging trend. The van indeed offers an unrivaled feeling of freedom and discovery, favored by the health crisis which has redefined our relationship with travel.
After the period of Covid, many vacationers have become aware of the need to rethink their practices. Although certain pre-pandemic habits remain, the desire for more reasoned tourism connected to its environment has intensified. The van thus becomes a symbol of this quest for freedom.
An eco-responsible choice #
Another dimension, and not the least, lies in the aspect environmental of these trips. More and more tourists aspire to reduce their carbon footprint, and choosing a van fits perfectly into this approach. Traveling by van not only allows you to consume less than in traditional tourist structures, but also to establish a stronger link with the community. nature.
The van makes it easier to get away from crowds of tourists, paving the way for a more authentic immersion in the landscapes. Indeed, fans of this mode of travel often have the desire to transmit values ofeco-responsibility and respect for the environment, by favoring choices that reflect their convictions.
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An elitist tendency? #
However, this new travel practice would not affect all socio-professional strata in the same way. Bessiere emphasizes that the rejection of mass tourism and the search for alternatives are often based on economic means as well as a certain level of culture. In fact, the higher socio-professional categories seem more inclined to adopt these new practices, while ordinary vacationers may have difficulty considering a change.
It is therefore important to note that, while offering an attractive alternative to traditional tourism, this van holiday trend could become increasingly elitist. This change requires both financial resources and an intellectual willingness to explore new options, which is not always accessible to everyone.
Conclusion on the rise of the van #
In short, the van presents itself as a dream solution for those seeking to escape the conventions of mass tourism. According to Jacinthe Bessiere, this development highlights changes in behavior and expectations regarding travel, while raising the question of inequalities in access to these new practices. The future of tourism could well take shape around these small communities of travelers moving towards a more free, respectful and responsible way of life.
