Exploring the boundaries: The dimensions of urban tourists-residents segregation: CAUTHE 2024 Conference Proceedings: Diverse Voices: Creating Change in Tourism, Hospitality and Events

The transformative impacts of urban tourism have reshaped urban spaces and precipitated notable social challenges. While existing literature in urban studies has extensively explored spatial and social segregation associated with gender, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status, the intricacies of segregation resulting from tourism development are less studied. This study seeks to bridge this gap, providing an in-depth analysis of both spatial and social segregation arising from tourism. The exploration extends beyond traditional boundaries, integrating insights into social interactions, resource access, and differing perceptions between tourists and locals, which collectively shape the contours of urban segregation. While spatial segregation remains a critical focus, underscored by tourism’s role in creating distinct spatial clusters and altering urban landscapes, the study’s emphasis on social segregation adds a layer of complexity and depth to the discourse. Employing a case study approach of Sanya, China, and informed by 34 interviews with stakeholders, the study identifies two dimensions of segregation: Segregation of housing and suburban choice, and segregation of daily interaction and social connection. Rooted in the context of temporary mobility resulting from tourism, this study illuminates its consequences on urban spaces and examines the ensuing social complexities, such as local community displacement, resident marginalisation, and heightened social inequality. The findings are significant, not only in broadening the understanding of urban tourism’s multifaceted impacts but also in informing sustainable tourism development and community integration strategies.