Chapter II. Tourism reforms to improve travelling and tourism organisations in uzbekistan

2.2 Potential impacts and contentious issues relating to Youth Tourism
Special interest tourism definitions and theories flawlessly aligns with youth tourism. Special interest tourism (SIT) can be defined, and seen through youth tourism; as distinctive leisure and recreational experiences focusing on the traveller’s interests, wants and needs (Derett 2001). SIT has been reported as a complex phenomenon which has flexible delivery, market segmentation and advances in technology affecting its distribution (Derett 2001). This can evidently be seen in youth tourism. As previously discussed, youth tourists thrive for flexibility in their travels and technologies including the internet and social media have helped youth tourisms growth and existence.
Special interest tourism theory also recognises tourists demonstrate aspirations for authenticity and real work experiences (Derett 2001). Similarly, youth tourists seek to experience the local lifestyle of the destination. SIT theories also aligns with youth tourism by youth tourists undertaking serious leisure and seeking personal fulfilment out of it (Derett 2001). Additionally, Derett (2001) reports SIT are travellers with particular interests. Some are happy to share these interests with others along the way and others prefer to limit the number of people they come in contact with on their travellers (Derett 2001). This is seen through youth tourism by some travellers are happy to share these interests alone, with one companion or with people they meet along the way.
Special interest tourism marketing theories are also obvious in youth tourism. With rapid changes in the internet, SIT providers are sharing more information for travellers via the internet (Derett 2001). This is especially important for youth tourism as they prefer their own research and planning, without assistance for travel agents. Trauer (2006) reports SIT ‘products’ expanding. Youth tourism has done just that. It has not only expanded in recent years, it is anticipated a significant expansion will continue over in the future (World youth student and education travel 2009).
A demand for special interest tourism has been recognises as individuals are striving to achieve self-development (Trauer 2006). One of the prime motivators for youth tourists to travel is to gain self-development. Trauer (2006) illustrates a SIT ‘experience’ model which youth tourism can be replicated in. The model exhibits traveller’s behaviours including risk zones, high challenge zones, exploration zones and comfort zones (Trauer 2006).