IN-PERSON Barcelona. Section B

Abstract

Transmediality is considered a paradigm of contemporary culture and society: it makes it possible to amplify the understanding of space and the perception of experiences through the convergence of different communication tools. The typological increase of the technologies used in this context and their widespread availability enables greater possibilities in human-environment interaction and grants access to an almost infinite amount of information. Particularly within the realm of tourism experiences, transmedia narration opens up numerous possibilities for the definition and communicaton of the tourist space, interweaving places, people, stories, environment and offering a rich and articulated perspective of the destination. Texts, images, videos, augmented reality, interactive narratives, mobile apps, and much more can be combined to engage visitors, to convey messages in a more direct and deeper way, guiding the conscious choices of tourist-consumers. For this reason, transmediality can be the means through which, on the one hand, to promote sustainable tourism models, communicating the values and authentic aspects of the culture and society of tourist destinations, conceived as theoretical and ethical principles and also as experiential practices, and on the other, to create awareness about the impact that tourism has on a territory. How can cross-cutting narrative strategies be used to engage travellers in experiential journeys that embrace environmental sustainability, enhance local culture, and promote community inclusion? Can they play a role in educating about conscious tourism and fostering a deeper connection between travellers and the hosting environment? This article aims to explore the potential synergies between transmedia communication and sustainable tourism, examining the opportunities offered by multiplatform narratives for the promotion and enhancement of responsible and culturally authentic tourist experiences.