Transformative travel experiences and gender: a double duoethnography approach

In the realm of transformative tourism research and tourism studies on gender, transformation is considered part of the emancipating and empowering process that women mostly experience through travel. Yet, little is known about the same process from a male or comparative perspective. This paper contributes toward addressing this research gap, adopting a double duoethnography approach aimed at analysing young male and female experiences of transformation through tourism. Through a photo elicitation technique, data was collected from two researchers’ personal experiences with transformative tourism, then analysed for gender-based similarities and differences. Overall, findings suggest that both young female and male tourism experiences of transformation are characterised by becoming mentally stronger and more confident, as well as increasing acceptance of unexpected negative events and challenges arising during the trip. The critical role of liminality is also common for women and men in exploring their identities during tourism experiences. The female process of transformation is marked by bodily feelings and self-consciousness, while the male experience is characterised by flow, adaptation, a sense of community with other travellers. Recommendations for marketers and operators are made to enhance the transformative tourism experience for both women and men.