Abstract
This article proposes a process framework for developing and managing visitor attractions (VA) in small island developing states with Trinidad and Tobago, a two-island state in the Caribbean, as the case study. An extensive literature review was conducted, supported by field observations, individual depth interviews, and small and large focus group meetings. The process framework identified four sets of processes: national policy formulation and legislation; inventory, classification, evaluation, and ranking of VA; general operations management involving project management activities; and site specific activities of development, operations, and maintenance. The value of the framework lies in the fact that no similar framework applicable to small islands was covered in the literature and validation was obtained from a panel of experts and a cross section of tourism stakeholders in Tobago.
Highlights
The purpose of this article is to devise a process framework as a guide to meet the challenge of successfully developing and managing visitor attractions (VA) in a small island developing state (SIDS) with special reference to Trinidad and Tobago (TT), a two-island Caribbean state
The major finding of the study was that an observable deficiency exists in the overall structure for developing and managing the relatively wide range of existing VA, and the distinct need was the formulation of a process framework within which the development and management components can be rationalized, systematized, and operationalized
The major finding of the study was that an observable deficiency exists in the overall structure for developing and managing the relatively wide range of existing VA in TT, and the distinct need was the formulation of a simple operational framework within which the development and management components can be rationalized and systematized
Summary
The purpose of this article is to devise a process framework as a guide to meet the challenge of successfully developing and managing visitor attractions (VA) in a small island developing state (SIDS) with special reference to Trinidad and Tobago (TT), a two-island Caribbean state. The argument presented in this article is that the small islands of the Caribbean cannot continue to rely on marketing efforts to sustain tourism based on natural resource assets such as beach and marine resources, but must embrace a more holistic approach that includes the identification and development of a broad range of attractions within an effective process framework. Such a properly developed and professionally managed portfolio of VA will add significant value to TT as a tourist destination and will strengthen the destination management system. The justification for VA management, according to Swarbrooke, is the frequent conflict among different activities at sites which require a management system that reconciles the needs of users with the conservation imperative
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