Hi there, Parisa Setoodegan!

What is your research area?

My PhD research project is at the theoretical intersection of sustainability, domestic tourism and immigration. The aim is to better understanding of the relationship between leisure, tourism and post-immigration life. Sweden - which has a long history of outdoor recreation and event tourism as domestic tourist attractions - has had a significant influx of immigrants, at least since 2015. About 20% of Sweden's population now falls into this new category of residents who identify as belonging to various ethnic identities.

The research project aims to comprehend understanding the characteristics of domestic tourism in Sweden in relation to immigrant’s engagement and integration, socially sustainable aspects of the domestic tourism, benefits associated with the social landscape for the purpose of environmental awareness, and the mutual benefit for the development of the local community and sustainable tourism.

Tell us about your background

– I have a bachelor's degree in English literature from Shiraz University in Iran, a master's degree in tourism management from Sheikh Bahaee Isfahan University in Iran and a master's degree in cultural geography from the Central University.

Who are your supervisors?

– My supervisors are Robert Pettersson and Lusine Margaryan.

Are you employed in a project?

- No, but certain parts of my doctoral degree are financed by the municipality of Östersund.