Tourism, Security and Safety From Theory to Practice

Research Directions for Commercial Adventure Tourism
There are many areas for research that will promote a better understanding of the
adventure tourism industry. Risk management requires knowledge across a range
of aspects within the commercial adventure tourism operating environment.
Multidisciplinary research projects should focus on these specific aspects and their
links to the adventure tourism industry.
A number of research areas have been suggested earlier including the role of
suspected risk factors for injury and the causes and effects of mindless operations
of activities. More broadly, research into the effectiveness of accreditation pro-
grams and organizations in determining and communicating suitable industry
standards is required to benchmark current operator practices. A better under-
standing of the relationship between marketing practices and the client experi-
ence of adventure would also assist the adventure tourism industry and build on
previous research (e.g., Wilks, Atherton, and Cavanagh, 1994).
Conclusion
Adventure tourism activities carry the onus for managers and guides to provide an
experience for their clients within an acceptable margin of safety. The physical
risks that do exist should be clearly communicated to clients before they commit
to the adventure. In this respect, commercial adventure tourism operations will
become increasingly proficient and professional. Nonetheless, clients will be
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simultaneously seeking new and more challenging adventure experiences. To meet
this demand, structured management frameworks underpinned by current legisla-
tive and accreditation requirements will not only improve safety standards but
work to effectively match the tourist demand to industry supply at appropriate risk
levels and in suitable locations. This practice will provide long-term benefits for
adventure operators and their clients.