An analysis of theoretical approaches to studying ice-and-snow tourism

The article studies modern theoretical approaches to the concept of "ice-and-snow tourism" (IST). It is substantiated that IST is a type of winter tourism based on the use of snow and ice resources, which is a key feature that determines its implementation. We have described the main subtypes of IST including a list of recreational activities associated with snow and ice, identified the features of IST, which correlate with the key principles of the International Ecotourism Society and allow identifying it as a special type of ecotourism. The article presents our own interpretation of IST as a type of winter ecological tourism associated with the conquest of snow-covered landscapes and ice-covered water bodies, development of ice and snow routes and tours, use of natural ice and snow resources to create temporary attractions, objects and events that form the industry of winter services and entertainment.