The Trend of Tourism Localization: Mutual Gaze between Destinations and Migrant Tourists

For international migrants, visiting and hosting family members and friends remain behind used to play significant roles in shaping their wellbeing. However, after Covid-19 disrupted global human mobility, it is increasingly difficult for them to visit each other. This unprecedented situation forces migrants to seek a substitute for VFR travel. Visiting domestic tourism destinations has become a new option for them. Using the critical approach of mutual gaze, this study examines the ways domestic tourism destinations and migrant tourists understand/misunderstand each other. The aim is to identify and explain the tensions, challenges, and opportunities that derive from the inequalities of power between both sides, contribute to enhanced understanding of cultural diversity, and provide practical advice to facilitate social inclusion in post-pandemic tourism regeneration. The research question is: Do tourism destinations in New Zealand correctly understand Chinese migrants’ needs and expectations of visiting, and develop destination marketing and development strategies accordingly