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USC Off the Beaten Path: The Search for Spirituality

Spiritual Tourism

More and more 'seekers' are choosing enlightenment over a week at the beach — where are they headed, and what do they find?
By Lindsay Watts, Jessica Roberts, Amy Tenowich, Rocio Zamora, July 24, 2007

News21 fellows Lindsay Watts and Heather Downie visited three "spiritual" destinations to find out why people are choosing enlightenment over a week at the beach.

Spiritual and religious tourism is the fastest growing travel segment, according to the World Travel Organization. About 300 million seekers hit the road every year, and many aren't taking your typical trip to the Holy Land.

News21 fellows Lindsay Watts and Heather Downie visited three "spiritual" destinations to find out why people are choosing enlightenment over a week at the beach.

Comments
krisantha Nissanka, 2008-01-05 01:42:00 -- Flag for review

Im a sinhalese from sri lanka.Enlightnment within one week is mentioned in old buddhist scriptures written on 2000 year old ola leaf which is in my possession.

If interested contact me. mobile 94 0714 942342
office 94 011 2345683

Sandy, 2008-06-15 17:40:09 -- Flag for review

Lindsay Watts was very unpleasant to watch. There was nothing likable about her.

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Image: Heather Downie hugs a tree
News21 fellow Heather Downie confirms her status as a tree-hugger

AUDIO: Hear News21 fellow Heather Downie's radio report on her journey to Sedona, Ariz., a major destination for new-age tourists:


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