Digital Engagement and the Modern Cultural Tourist

The focus of this discussion paper is the relationship between digital technology and cultural tourism. Having presented culture, tourism and cultural tourism, the paper suggests that cultural tourists are actively seeking an engaging experience. Whether one uses the interpretation principles of Tilden, or Csíkszentmihályi’s concept of ‘Flow’, tourist engagement is heavily influenced by storytelling, and uninterrupted, engaging encounters. To serve the visitor, cultural sites must realise that ‘provocation’ and relating to the individual are of paramount importance for deep and meaningful experience. Thus, a challenge is presented in this paper, whereby cultural sites might consider the opportunities for digital-detox for their visitors, in an effort to provide more meaningful interaction and depth of experience, instead of unquestioningly committing to investment in digital technologies.