Reframing informal tourism entrepreneurial practices: Capital and field relations structuring the informal tourism economy of Chiang Mai. (September 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Çakmak, Erdinç; Lie, Rico; McCabe, Scott
• Is Part Of: Annals of tourism research. Volume 72(2018)
• Page Start: 37
• Page End: 47
• Publication Date: 2018-09
• Subjects: Informal tourism economy -- Entrepreneurship -- Fields -- Capitals -- Bourdieu -- Thailand; Tourism -- Periodicals
• DOI: 10.1016/j.annals.2018.06.003
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0160-7383

Abstract

Highlights: Developing and extending Bourdieu's theory of fields and capital into tourism. Maps the practices between the informal/formal economy in Thailand. Demonstrates the relational structures of capitals in the tourism system. Advocates informal entrepreneurship as presenting opportunities not just challenges. Makes policy recommendations for inclusion and development of the informal economy. Abstract: This article examines the types of capitals possessed by informal tourism entrepreneurs and locates their value within the field relations that orders their contribution to the tourism system. Bourdieu's theory on fields and capitals was applied to ethnographic narrative accounts of stakeholders in tourism in Chiang Mai, Thailand to assess these roles. Informal entrepreneurs have limited access to resources and their perspectives are excluded from academic debates and policy initiatives. The paper identifies the dynamism, positive social capital, flexibility, and symbolic capital of informal entrepreneurs. These are related to the field conditions that determine and structure their contribution to tourism destinations. The analysis reveals the importance of collaboration between informal entrepreneurs and other stakeholders, concluding with recommendations for policy makers.