2020 08 13 Journal of Tourism Futures - Vol ahead No ahead - Daniel Wright

Magazine Overview

This document is a research paper titled "Encountering UFOs and aliens in the tourism industry" by Daniel William Mackenzie Wright, published in the Journal of Tourism Futures. It explores the intersection of human fascination with UFOs and aliens and the tourism industry, utilizing a pragmatic, multi-disciplinary approach based on secondary data. The paper aims to provide a theoretical starting point and platform for further research into this under-explored academic area.

Abstract

The abstract highlights the historical and popular cultural fascination with UFOs and alien phenomena, noting the growth of tourism attractions catering to this interest. The paper's purpose is to illuminate the relationship between UFOs, aliens, and the tourism industry. The methodology involves a pragmatic philosophical approach and the analysis of secondary data, statistics, reports, and research studies. The findings identify the current market for UFO and alien tourism and propose a model for understanding its supply and demand. The paper's originality lies in its academic consideration of a subject with diverse attractions and tourist motivations.

Introduction

The introduction sets the stage by quoting Air Chief Marshall Lord Dowding, who stated that over 10,000 UFO sightings had been reported, many unexplainable, and suggested an extraterrestrial source. It notes the widespread societal interest in the paranormal, particularly UFOs and aliens, which has been fueled by unusual sightings and media narratives since the mid-20th century. The paper posits that this interest has significantly impacted the tourism industry, influencing both supply and demand. It identifies a gap in academic literature regarding this subject and aims to provide original discussions, explore the growth of fascination from the 20th and 21st centuries, and offer a model for UFO and alien tourism.

Methodology

The paper employs a pragmatic philosophical approach, embracing multi-disciplinary studies to achieve holistic considerations. This approach is seen as a partner to the mixed-method approach, recognizing the strengths of both qualitative and quantitative methods. The research involved a desk-based analysis of secondary information, statistics, reports, and research studies, integrating constructivist and positivist views on how society operates and interprets information.

Our fascination with unidentified flying objects, aliens and the paranormal

This section defines UFO, alien, and paranormal, emphasizing that all involve unexplained phenomena. It traces the historical interest in UFOs, citing 10,000-year-old rock paintings in India depicting aliens and UFOs, and religious paintings featuring similar imagery. The paper highlights H.G. Wells' "The War of the Worlds" (1897) as a key fictional moment. A pivotal non-fiction event was Kenneth Arnold's 1947 sighting of "flying saucers," which rapidly popularized the term. The Roswell incident in 1947 is also noted for its significant cultural impact. The paper mentions the increase in UFO sightings during World Wars, with theories ranging from combat flares to pilot fatigue. It also discusses the advancements in aviation and space exploration during the mid-to-late 20th century, suggesting that increased air traffic might have contributed to sightings. The period from the 1970s to the early 1990s is identified as the heyday of UFO fascination, with a surge in UFO organizations, publications, books, and popular media like "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" and "The X-Files." Organizations like BUFORA, MUFON, and SETI are mentioned for their research and outreach efforts.

Quotes by people of importance and power: fuelling the narrative

This section emphasizes the influence of public figures in shaping the narrative around UFOs and aliens. It includes quotes from various individuals in positions of power, such as US President Harry S. Truman, Air Chief Marshall Lord Dowding, and former CIA Director Roscoe Hillenkoetter. These quotes, presented in Table 1, range from assertions of the existence of flying saucers to acknowledgments of intense research and the possibility of extraterrestrial origins. The paper notes that while underlying evidence for these claims is often lacking, the impact of these statements from authoritative figures has significantly fueled societal interest and fascination.

Unidentified flying objects and aliens in popular culture: broadening the narrative

This section explores how popular culture has amplified the UFO and alien narrative. It lists popular alien-themed movies such as "Close Encounters of the Third Kind," "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial," "Independence Day," and "Signs." It also mentions musicians and brands that engage with the theme. The paper highlights the role of Tom DeLonge in co-founding "To the Stars Academy of Arts and Sciences" and their documentary series "Unidentified: Inside America's UFO Investigation." Several influential books on UFOs and aliens are also discussed, including works by Bernard Newman, Erich von Daniken, and Whitley Strieber. The section concludes that popular culture's embrace of the UFO and alien phenomenon has been crucial in broadening its narrative and societal engagement.

Media coverage on unidentified flying objects and aliens: spreading the narrative

The media's role in disseminating UFO and alien narratives is examined. Recent stories include the Pentagon's reported recovery of unrecognized metal alloys and the funding of the Advanced Aerospace Threat Identification Programme. Declassified US military videos of "unidentified aerial phenomena" (UAPs) released by "To The Stars Academy of Arts & Sciences" are presented as evidence of official acknowledgment. The paper also discusses the capture of a cigar-shaped object, Oumuamua, passing through the solar system, which initially sparked speculation of an alien spaceship. Quotes from figures like Dr. Helen Sharman, suggesting the existence of alien life, and reports of UFOs captured by the International Space Station are mentioned. The UK's Ministry of Defence's decision to publish secret UFO reports is also noted. The section concludes that continued media coverage and government department involvement sustain the mystery and societal interest in UFOs and aliens.

Unidentified flying objects and aliens: tourists and tourism attractions

This section focuses on the emergence of UFO and alien tourism. The "Storm Area 51" event is cited as a catalyst for increased public attention and a growing trend in UFO tourism. Examples of UFO tourism attractions include Area 51-related businesses and the International UFO Museum and Research Centre in Roswell, New Mexico. Local businessmen in Roswell are noted for arranging extraterrestrial-themed tours, with increasing demand from both domestic and international visitors. The paper suggests that the mystery surrounding events like Roswell continues to drive tourism, attracting people curious about what happened there. The section implies that the narrative surrounding UFOs and aliens, fueled by media and popular culture, directly translates into tangible tourism experiences.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes throughout the paper are the historical and ongoing fascination with UFOs and aliens, the significant impact of popular culture and media in shaping this narrative, and the growing connection between this phenomenon and the tourism industry. The editorial stance appears to be one of academic inquiry, aiming to provide a structured analysis of a topic often relegated to fringe discussions. The paper acknowledges the lack of conclusive evidence for UFOs and aliens but emphasizes the undeniable societal interest and the need for academic exploration of its manifestations, particularly within the tourism sector. It advocates for further research and provides a foundational model for understanding UFO and alien tourism.

This issue of the JOURNAL OF TOURISM FUTURES delves into the intriguing and rapidly growing phenomenon of UFO and alien tourism. The publication explores how destinations are capitalizing on global fascination with extraterrestrial life and unexplained aerial phenomena.

The Rise of UFO Tourism

The article begins by noting the increasing popularity of UFO tourism, citing examples like Khao Kala in Thailand, marketed as a place for telepathic connection with aliens. It highlights the commercial potential being tapped into by countries like Chile, Sri Lanka, and Japan, referring to this industry as the "grey dollar" industry. Chile has established a "UFO Trail" in San Clemente, while Sri Lanka focuses on "alien mystery tours" around Anuradhapura. Japan's contribution includes Asuka, Nara Prefecture, known for its carved granite monoliths.

Global Attractions and Experiences

Table 4 provides a comprehensive list of UFO and alien-themed tourism attractions worldwide:

• Roswell, New Mexico: Famous for the 1947 UFO crash, the town boasts alien-themed restaurants, shops, and the International UFO Museum and Research Centre.
• Area 51, Nevada: Considered a 'ground zero' for alien enthusiasts, with speculation about hidden UFO wreckage and alien pilots.
• Chile UFO sighting tours: A 19-mile trail through the Andes, offering tours focused on sightings and featuring unique volcanic rock formations believed to be landing pads.
• Ovnipuerto Cachi, Argentina: Features an airstrip built by a Swiss man who claims a UFO captain telepathically instructed him.
• Hollowcombe Bottom, Devon, England: Known for a mysterious pony massacre attributed by some to extraterrestrial activity.
• Wycliffe Well, Davenport, Australia: Dubbed the "UFO capital of Australia" and ranked among the top UFO spots globally.
• The Mountain Sphinx, Buşteni, Romania: A naturally carved rock formation resembling a face, with claims of alien involvement.
• UFO Memorial, Ängelholm, Sweden: A memorial erected in 1972 to commemorate an alleged UFO landing in 1946.
• Emilcin UFO memorial, Opole Lubelskie County, Poland: Commemorates a famous alleged UFO abduction case from 1978.
• Disney Park Pandora, Florida: A themed area inspired by James Cameron's Avatar, located within Disney's Animal Kingdom.

Beyond specific locations, events like AlienCon are highlighted as weekend "info-tainment" events celebrating sci-fi, ancient aliens, and pop culture, featuring exhibits, celebrity appearances, and merchandise.

Unidentified Flying Object and Alien Tourism: A Current Landscape Model

The study introduces a model illustrating the UFO and alien tourism landscape, differentiating between Supply (non-purpose-built and purpose-built infrastructure) and Demand (passive and active participation). Tourist Motivations are categorized into personal experiences, sights of interest, fascination with the paranormal, entertainment, news-driven, educational motives, scientific endeavor, film-induced motives, fiction/non-fiction narratives, UFO/alien fanatics, seeking novelty, and social media driven.

The model aims to help future academic researchers and the tourism industry understand the phenomenon better, from both supply and demand perspectives.

The Future of Unidentified Flying Object and Alien Tourism

The article posits that the UFO and alien tourism market is vibrant and has significant growth potential. Countries are actively creating tourist experiences, recognizing the commercial value. The model allows for the creation of attractions in various locations, not always dependent on credibility, as exemplified by the alien airstrip in Argentina. The continuous spread of narratives and the enduring mystery of UFOs and aliens are expected to fuel this fascination.

As society increasingly seeks meaning beyond traditional institutions, alternative avenues like yoga, Buddhism, and astrology, as well as the paranormal and UFOs, become places to explore deeper questions. For some, these attractions offer pure entertainment and fun. The authors suggest that as long as the paranormal phenomenon remains a mystery, fascination and tourism will continue to grow.

Societal Reaction to Alien Contact

Reflecting on hypothetical scenarios of encountering aliens, the article contrasts dystopian movie portrayals with research suggesting a generally positive or neutral public reaction, citing studies on reactions to news headlines and the discovery of microbial life on Mars. However, reactions to more dramatic discoveries, like alien 'hardware,' remain less certain. The potential for increased tourism numbers is considered, especially if aliens are perceived as non-threatening.

Conclusion

This research is noted for being one of the first to explore the relationship between UFOs, aliens, and the tourism industry. It acknowledges the deep-rooted human fascination with the paranormal, fueled by popular culture, leading to a wide spectrum of beliefs. The study emphasizes the complexity of motivations driving participation in UFO and alien tourism and presents a model to map this landscape. The market is characterized by a mix of attractions catering to diverse perspectives, making it an exciting field for research.

Future research is recommended to focus on assessing the market value, exploring tourist motivations and expectations, and examining the role of stakeholders in managing and promoting UFO and alien tourism destinations. The study concludes that this niche area of the tourism industry, despite limited coverage, has significant potential for growth.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes throughout this issue are the growing commercialization of paranormal phenomena, particularly UFOs and aliens, into tourism products. The journal adopts an analytical stance, exploring the market dynamics, tourist motivations, and the cultural underpinnings of this fascination. It highlights the potential for destinations to leverage this interest, while also acknowledging the speculative and often unverified nature of the subject matter. The editorial stance appears to be one of academic inquiry into a developing tourism niche, recognizing its economic potential and cultural significance without necessarily endorsing the veracity of UFO and alien claims.