Authenticity and tourism in Kazakhstan: neo-nomadic culture in the post Soviet era
Abstract: This proposed PhD study will investigate the question of authenticity regarding neo-nomadic culture in Kazakhstan through a multiple stakeholder approach and will aim to determine markers of authenticity within one eco-tour in Central Kazakhstan. The thesis will adopt an explorative/interpretive research position following a mixed method approach and will be examined from different stakeholders’ perspectives in case study areas located in Central Kazakhstan. Firstly, the research will aim at identifying indicators of a revival of nomadic culture (neonomadic culture) in Kazakhstan and determine how they can contribute to the development of cultural tourism in the country. Second, the research is intending to find out whether some cultural aspects of the neo-nomadic culture can participate in the development of an authentic experiential tourism experience for both local and foreign visitors through one eco-tour in Central Kazakhstan. Lastly, the research intends to examine how Kazakhstani tourism websites with cultural content can support this experiential tourism experience.
Listen to the seminar presentation below.
