Determining the benefits of adventure tourism from a providers’ perspective in Fethiye

Abstract

There has been a significant growth in adventure tourism globally in recent years including Turkey. Fethiye is a good example of this trend as the resort has great potential for adventure tourism. Adventure tourism helps holiday destinations to attract sustainable tourism management in comparison with the traditional sea, sun and sand form of tourism. The specific aim of this study is to reveal the benefits of adventure tourism for the adventure traveler and for the providing organization too. Questionnaire technique was used to gather data. The questionnaire was directed and employed towards the service providers. Data was collated between May and October 2014 and 161 questionnaires were completed via face to face survey methodology. Adventure travel/ traveler benefits were ascertained from enquiries appertaining to: experience, activity, environment and other miscellaneous factors. Findings of the survey identified that the greatest benefits of adventure tourism for the providing organizations were 'self actualization' and 'supporting culture and environment' both of which, from statistical analysis, appeared to have a direct impact on increased business opportunity and growth market potential. As a result of this study, it is surmised that the provision of serving such destinations with adventure tourism should be of significant benefit to travelers and service providers alike. Keywords: adventure tourism, benefits of adventure tourism, adventure-based leisure/recreation, service providers