• Exploring the Wonders of the Night

    Noctourism, also known as Dark Sky tourism, is a growing trend that emphasizes nighttime travel to destinations, offering unique experiences between sunset and sunrise. These activities often include stargazing, astronomy-related events, and storytelling that enhances the allure of the night sky. The phenomenon of skyglow—artificial light reflected back into the atmosphere—poses a challenge to accessing pristine dark skies, with studies showing that 88% of Europe and 47% of the United States are affected by this light pollution to varying degrees (Falchi et al. 2016; Hyttinen 2021).

    Recent research by Booking.com highlights the rising interest in noctourism among travelers. While admiring the beauty and tranquility of the night sky remains the primary draw, practical factors also play a role. Global warming and rising daytime temperatures are making traditional sightseeing less appealing. In fact, 61% of surveyed travelers expressed a preference for cooler evening and early-morning activities. Destinations with minimal light pollution are particularly sought-after, with over 60% of respondents showing interest in exploring such locations.

    The growth of noctourism is expected to significantly reshape travel patterns in both urban and rural areas. Attractions are adapting by extending their operating hours to cater to night-focused activities. Examples include late-night museum events, stargazing tours, and the rise of night markets. Travelers will also have opportunities to witness rare cosmic phenomena, providing an unmatched connection to the universe.

    Noctourism offers more than just a chance to visit destinations; it invites travelers to experience the unique and enchanting world after dark. It’s about escaping the heat and crowds of the daytime, rediscovering the serenity of the night, and finding new ways to connect with the cosmos. This trend is not only reshaping travel habits but also reigniting humanity's fascination with the mysteries of the universe.

    Activity: Exploring Opportunities in Dark Sky Tourism
    Read the provided case studies to understand how other tourism businesses and destinations have successfully incorporated the concept of dark skies into their offerings.

    Think about how dark sky-related products, services, or experiences could enhance your business or your region's tourism appeal. Write down five ideas based on your reflections.

    The activities mentioned can bring value to your business or regional tourism offerings. By exploring how darkness and dark skies can be integrated into your current strategies, you can enhance your offerings or contribute to the region’s tourism appeal. For further guidance, the GLOW2.0 study module, “Service Design for Dark Sky Tourism,” provides helpful tools and templates to develop or refine your ideas based on these concepts.

    Next, we will look at how light pollution impacts tourism destinations, focusing on five key areas (5As): Attractions, Activities, Accessibility, Accommodation, and Amenities


◄The Importance of Darkness in Tourism and Beyond
►The Role of Attractions, Activities, and Light Pollution in Tourism