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Greece and Malta. Several of these focus on the lives of the ancient apostles
rather than Jesus himself, with titles such as 'In the Footsteps of Paul' cruises
(Ron, 2009).
Other examples of this trend can be drawn from the Hajj in Saudi Arabia.
Today, it is possible to win Hajj trips on television game shows for Muslims
who might not otherwise be able to afford the journey. As well, Hajj package
'tours' can be purchased, wherein pilgrims arrive in Saudi Arabia by air, are
met with air-conditioned coaches, and are taken to four- or five-star hotels
for their stay in Mecca. During the Hajj rituals, the same participants are
accompanied by paid guides, who assist them through the ceremonial rites
and deliver them back to their hotels. Often these packages include more
leisure-oriented activities, such as sports or shopping in conjunction with the
pilgrimage. There is also now the possibility of undertaking a virtual Hajj.
Here, virtual pilgrims can follow the rituals associated with the Hajj on the
internet. While this does not typically satisfy the religious obligations of
undertaking the Hajj in person, it does provide a proxy experience until a
person is able to attend (Timothy & Iverson, 2006).
Heritage trails
For thousands of years humans have used tracks and trails for transporta-
tion. Contemporarily, hiking trails, scenic routes and heritage walks have
gained considerable popularity and are well recognized as tourist attractions
and recreation resources (Timothy & Boyd, 2015). There are many different
types and scales of heritage trails. Historic railways, interpretive paths, walks
along ancient city walls, pilgrim trails, food and wine routes, canal towpaths
and urban heritage trails are just a few of the many sorts of cultural routes that
have become important tourism resources in many regions. In terms of scale,
heritage trails can be as short and simple as small paths or sidewalks within
archaeological sites and outdoor museums. Others are longer and may be
national routes that encompass several states, provinces or counties (e.g.
Hadrian's Wall Path or Route 66). There are even multinational historic routes
that require travelers to cross international boundaries (e.g. the Silk Road or
the Camino de Santiago) if they intend to complete the entire corridor.
Discussion: Connections to Development
All of these trends have important economic and social development
implications. Heritage scales are crucial in branding tourist destinations,
especially under the concept of globalization. As already noted, UNESCO
World Heritage List inscription is frequently used by countries to market
their heritage products. While the designation might not always increase
visitor numbers, the UNESCO 'brand' does transform the local into the
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