Luc Vacher is a geographer and associate professor at the University of La Rochelle (France). His current research, developed in the Joint Research Center, CNRS/La Rochelle University, « Littoral, Environnement et Sociétés » (UMR 7266 LIENSs), focuses on the analysis of touristification as well as definition and functioning of touristic and recreational areas. The question of distance in the desire for tourist spaces, and the notion of comfort in coastal recreational areas, especially on beaches, is studied in relation to perceptions and representations of users. This research also deals with the issue of dwelling, which is addressed through analysis of tourist residentialities and digital traces.