Race, Aspirations, and Inequalities in Travel Choices in Brazil

• In Event: 30420 - Section on Racial and Ethnic Minorities Roundtables
  In Refereed Roundtable (60 minute): Table 6: Race, Place Making, and Culture

Abstract

The patterns of tourist circulation in Brazil are shaped by racial and socioeconomic inequalities that impact access and experiences of travel among different groups. This study investigates how racial issues inform the travel choices of Brazilian tourists by analyzing individual perceptions of desired and avoided destinations, as well as the strategies used to navigate symbolic and material barriers to access. The research is based on a qualitative approach, consisting of semi-structured interviews conducted between 2023 and 2024 with tourists residing in São Paulo, Brazil. Recruitment occurred through social networks groups (Facebook) and snowball sampling, ensuring racial and socioeconomic diversity among participants. The results highlight four main findings: (1) the figure of the "tourist" is widely associated with a white and foreign profile, influencing aspirations and access to tourism; (2) the southern region of Brazil is frequently avoided by Black tourists due to perceptions of racism and social exclusion; (3) Black tourists adopt specific strategies to minimize uncomfortable situations, such as avoiding certain spaces and being vigilant about their behavior to conform to expected norms in tourist environments; and (4) tourism is perceived as a symbol of upward social mobility. These findings contribute to the discussion on the racialization of individuals, destinations, and tourist spaces.

Author

• Thaina Souza Santos, University of Sao Paulo