Backpacking and risk perception: the case of solo Asian women

ABSTRACT

This study provides a holistic Asian viewpoint of the perceptions of risk and worry encountered by solo women Asian backpackers. Qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with 19 backpackers. The research followed content analysis to interpret the results. Two groups of backpackers were identified who faced quite different risk-related issues. One group chose to travel alone on their own volition, while the second group travelled alone due to circumstances, typified by a lack of travel partners. Members of both groups identified physical risks, especially related to sexual dimorphism associated with being Asian women. However, members of the second group were more likely to identify with social/psychological and satisfaction risks.

KEYWORDS:

• Solo women
• backpackers
• Asian women

Notes on contributors

Amanda Wantono is an Indonesian student at The School of Hotel and Tourism Management in The Hong Kong Polytechnic University. She majors in Hospitality Management and minors in European Studies. Amanda was awarded the Most Outstanding Student of the Year 2018–2019 in her Faculty.

Bob McKercher has wide ranging research interests. He received his PhD from the University of Melbourne in Australia, a Masters degree from Carleton University in Ottawa, Canada and his undergraduate degree from York University in Toronto, Canada. Prior to entering academia, he worked in a variety of operational and advocacy position in the Canadian tourism industry.

ORCID

Bob McKercher http://orcid.org/0000-0001-7451-1266