Opportunities For Development Of Tourism Research Articles

Identifying Opportunities for Developing Nature-Based Sport Tourism to Improve Health in Papua: A Bibliometric Analysis of Research Over Ten Years

Objectives. This study aimed to examine research trends around nature-based tourism, event-based sports tourism, and their relationship with government policies to identify potential opportunities for sustainable sports tourism development in Papua. Materials and methods. The methodological approach comprised using a bibliometric analysis by reviewing 997 scientific articles sourced from Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science databases from 2014-2024. Harzing’s publish or Perish software was used to sort the articles, and VOSViewer software was used to analyze the articles. The review included the number of cluster groups, research themes related to sports tourism in the year groups, research trends around nature-based sports tourism, and gaps in sports tourism development. Results. There were eight cluster groups and five groups. The current research trends in the field of sports tourism comprise event-based sports tourism, nature tourism, the tourism industry, and social media. The research trends related to nature-based sports tourism include six keywords, namely nature-based tourism, nature connectedness, nature sport, nature-based events, nature-based recreation, and nature. Visitors, managers, communities, and governments benefit from the health and economic advantages of nature-based sports tourism. In developing nature-based sports tourism, it is essential to consider the sustainability of nature, cultural characteristics, and the form of activities offered. Local governments need to take part in efforts to develop and preserve nature-based sports tourism. Conclusions. The development of nature-based sports tourism with traditional sports activities has a great opportunity to be enhanced. This innovation certainly needs careful planning from determining goals, human resources, risk factors, and presenting an effective promotional strategies. The involvement of local government can facilitate the implementation of this planning.

The Influence of Local Culture and Cultural Tourism Activities on the Quality and Reputation of Tourism Destinations in Bandung

This research investigates the influence of local culture and cultural tourism activities on the quality and reputation of tourism destinations in Bandung. A quantitative approach was employed, utilizing survey data collected from 180 tourists visiting cultural attractions in Bandung. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) with Partial Least Squares (PLS) analysis was conducted to examine the relationships between cultural variables and destination outcomes. The findings reveal significant positive associations between engagement with local culture, participation in cultural tourism activities, and tourists' perceptions of destination quality and reputation. Cultural tourism activities emerge as key drivers of destination quality, while engagement with local culture positively influences destination reputation. These results underscore the importance of cultural assets in enhancing destination attractiveness and visitor satisfaction and highlight opportunities for destination management and tourism development in Bandung and similar cultural destinations.

Improving tourism resilience through Cultural Routes. An exploratory analysis of the Italian case “Via Francigena”

Cultural routes have been recognized as effective social innovation projects to promote tourism development in marginal areas. However, the resilience of these routes, particularly in the face of external shocks and disruptions, remains a critical area of investigation. This study examines the role of cultural routes (as social innovation projects) in improving the resilience of these marginal areas after pandemic crisis. The research draws upon a combination of secondary data provided by ISTAT for assessing the marginality of the study areas and primary data on the impact of the "Via Francigena" project obtained through 32 interviews with managers of accommodation facilities (B&Bs, hostels, farm stays, hotels) located along the route itself. The findings of this study reveal that cultural routes offer significant opportunities for tourism development in marginal areas. Firstly, they serve as unique selling points, showcasing the cultural heritage and authenticity of these regions. Cultural routes provide a compelling narrative that attracts tourists seeking immersive experiences, promoting sustainable tourism practices and economic growth in these areas. Secondly, cultural routes act as catalysts for local community engagement and empowerment. By involving residents in tourism-related activities and initiatives, cultural routes foster a sense of pride, ownership, and entrepreneurship among the local population. The socio-economic benefits of the project determine a diversification of income sources and increase the resilience of communities located in the most marginal areas of the Apennines. However, a successful implementation of cultural routes to develop tourism and community resilience in marginal areas requires overcoming various challenges. These include limited resources, the need for a cultural change and the need for collaborative efforts among multiple stakeholders, including government bodies, local communities, tourism operators, and cultural organizations. This research contributes to the understanding of cultural routes as a powerful tool for tourism development in marginalized areas. The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers, tourism planners, and destination managers in leveraging the potential of cultural routes as social innovation projects. By capitalizing on the cultural heritage of these areas, cultural routes can drive economic growth, improve community well-being, preserve environmental heritage and thereby increase the economic resilience of communities. In conclusion, this research enhances our understanding of tourism resilience through the case of Via Francigena, demonstrating its relevance as a model for other cultural routes. By identifying key strategies and factors that contribute to resilience, this study informs effective planning and management approaches for the long-term sustainability of cultural tourism destinations and the preservation of cultural heritage. Future research should focus on evaluating the long-term impacts of cultural routes on tourism development, assessing visitor satisfaction, and investigating the potential replication of these projects in different marginal areas.

Creating value from intangible cultural heritage—the role of innovation for sustainable tourism and regional rural development

Based on evidence from two exploratory case studies, the article examines how intangible cultural heritage can promote sustainable rural development by creating value for rural communities. The studied communities in Bavaria, Germany, and Le Marche, Italy, are closely tied to traditional agricultural practices and their historical legacies. In the German case study, alpine pasture farming has sustained its cultural landscape and tourism for generations, while in the Italian case, the rural sharecropping legacy evolved into a culinary heritage project. Bad Hindelang (Germany) stands out as a mature destination with a long history of sustainable tourism, achieved through collaboration between farmers, conservationists, and the local community. The region balances tourism, conservation, and ecological farming through community participation and collective action. In contrast, Le Marche region (Italy) has only recently experienced increasing numbers of international tourists, but seems well-situated to exploit opportunities for cultural and culinary tourism development. The Marche Food and Wine Memories project has preserved the oral memories and the culinary heritage of former sharecroppers, yet economic value for the region has so far been limited. Post-COVID-19, the region may benefit from increased demand for tourism in culturally appealing, authentic and less crowded destinations. The article emphasises that intangible cultural heritage can enrich the quality of life of local residents and enhance visitors’ experiential value. Innovative approaches like storytelling and participatory engagement make these cultural expressions accessible to wider audiences, including tourists, thus benefiting heritage communities in various ways. Both cases highlight the role of innovation, with Bad Hindelang’s eco-model promoting ecological farming and Le Marche’s project preserving sharecroppers’ heritage through corporate heritage marketing. Collaboration among various stakeholders has been a key to success in both cases. The article also illustrates the range of functions fulfilled by intangible cultural heritage, from restoring social dignity to maintaining landscape aesthetics and ecological integrity.

Study on the Current Situation of China's Tourism Development in the Post-Epidemic Era

In China, along with the development of the national economy and the increase in people's demand for spirit, tourism has developed as a new industry. Despite its late start, it has taken its place in the market economy along with the continuous leap of the national economy, thanks to its rapid development and the number of tourists breaking new heights. Pursuing the human spirit has no boundaries, and the enhancement of the spirit is never-ending. However, after the New Crown Pneumonia epidemic outbreak, countries worldwide gradually took measures against the epidemic, and the pause button was pressed on the global movement of people. The number of tourist trips dropped significantly, and tourism revenues needed higher. However, under China's strict control, the country has entered the post-epidemic era, with a rapid economic and social recovery and a gradual return to pre-epidemic levels. The tourism industry is recovering and gradually moving towards high-quality development. This paper takes the rapid recovery and development transformation of the tourism industry as the theme, combines the current situation of China's tourism development, analyses the impact of the New Crown Epidemic on China's tourism industry, thoroughly analyses the development trend of the tourism industry in the post epidemic era, and puts forward the strategies for the sustainable development of China's tourism industry in the post epidemic era: Seizing the opportunities of tourism development, innovating the tourism model, and effectively utilizing the online tourism to achieve the depth of combination of online upstream, online and downstream.

Model for Small Enterprises Innovation on Climate Change and Tourism Industry: Learning from the Traditional Weaving Industry in Sumba

Purpose: This research aims to provide an overview of the adaptation strategy of production process innovation in the small-scale weaving industry in Sumba Island, Indonesia. The research is used to address climate change, and also relevant to the context of the tourism industry in the region.
 
 Theoretical framework: All business organizations face various risks that might arise from changes in the external macro and micro environment. One of the significant changes in the external macro-environment is climate change. Climate change and its derivative impacts on business activities need to be managed properly by adapting innovations in the production process. Various studies on the impact of climate change on business activities are more focused on conventional measures to gauge business risks which are more responsive and focused on large companies. Few studies are conducted on small and traditional businesses related to strategic actions in dealing with climate change and tourism, especially non-agricultural businesses. This research is carried out with the framework of making adaptation strategies to deal with climate change and tourism.
 
 Methods: This study employed exploratory qualitative research involving 20 informants of ikat weaving craftsmen. The research was conducted in Kambera District in July 2021. The qualitative data in this study were obtained by semi-structured in-depth interviews with the participants. The main criterion in determining the respondents is the length of the business run by the traditional weavers. The main interview questions were about the participants’ understanding of climate change and its impact on their business, as well as what strategic actions have been taken related to innovation in the production process.
 
 Findings: The study found that while most traditional weavers of Sumba textiles rely on status quo technology, some strategies emerged to adapt to climate uncertainty in weaving production to offer valuable products to the tourism industry. The authors also identify three benchmarks of climate adaptation measures by the traditional weavers.
 
 Practicality implications: The results of this study propose a production process innovation model related to climate change adaptation by ikat craftsmen to capture opportunities for tourism development by offering products that maintain cultural value while having high economic value. By all means, this model needs to be approached more deeply, either by conducting qualitative or quantitative exploratory studies.
 
 Originality/Value: The originality lies in its emphasis on the model of strategic actions toward climate change and the tourism industry. Furthermore, it improves the field's originality and value by shedding light into competitive business aspects that allow the industry to become a robust economic tourist attraction for the region, attracting tourists with its high-quality products. The emphasis on cultural values in the process of making Sumba ikat weaving adds a rich dimension to local culture, enriching the experience of tourists interested in the uniqueness of regional culture. Thus, the local economy can be strengthened via the increased tourism in Sumba.

Ատամնաբուժական զբոսաշրջության զարգացման հեռանկարները Հայաստանում / DENTAL TOURISM DEVELOPMENT PERSPECTIVES IN ARMENIA

Dental tourism is a type of medical tourism when patients travel abroad for receiving dental services and treatment. The purpose of dental tourism is to get quality dentistry at a more affordable price and with the use of more modern technologies. Dental tourism is becoming increasingly popular, especially among the population of countries where the cost of dental services is high or their availability is limited. Armenia has high opportunities for dental tourism development. Many tourists come to Armenia for dentistry services. The main methods used in the article are: desk review, interview and SWOT analysis. Based on the interview results among dental tourists, Armenia is a preferable destination for dental tourism based on its affordable prices and high-quality services. The article explores the main issues and prospects for dental tourism promotion in Armenia. Some recommendations were done towards improving marketing, statistical recording, quality of services, processing development programs, creating online med-portal of dental services, applying for international accreditations and certifications etc.

STUDY OF THE IMPACT OF UNESCO HERITAGE SITES ON SUSTAINABLE TOURISM DEVELOPMENT: A CASE STUDY OF THE MAUSOLEUM OF KHOJA AHMED YASAWI, TURKESTAN

Globally, cultural heritage tourism (CHT) is an effective way to achieve economic benefits by preserving and sharing a city's heritage and culture with visitors. Therefore, it is very important to study the impact of historical and cultural heritage sites on the sustainable development of local tourism. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of the Khoja Ahmed Yasawi Mausoleum, a UNESCO heritage site in Kazakhstan, on sustainable tourism development in Turkestan. The study was based on a survey aimed at identifying the goals of tourists (respondents) visiting Turkestan city, the main objects they would like to see as a tourist destination, and their opportunities for sustainable development of urban tourism. The questionnaire responses were analysed based on the coding of respondents (R1-R328) who were randomly selected. As a result, 40.8% of respondents from near and far abroad (47) and Kazakhstan (281) found that the purpose of the visit was historical and cultural tourism. 78.7% of respondents assessed the tourism potential of the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi as high in terms of sustainable tourism development in Turkestan. Thus, being one of the most famous architectural monuments of Central Asia and an example of modern Kazakh architecture, the mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi is a cultural and historical object that affects the sustainable development of tourism in Turkestan. This study will help to solve the problems of sustainable tourism development in Turkestan.

3d model of Medova cave, Lviv

The purpose of this article is to present and provide a detailed analysis of the 3D model of the Medova Cave in Lviv, created using laser scanning technology. The main objectives include revealing the accuracy and detailing the obtained model, as well as determining its potential applications in various fields such as geological research, scientific exploration, cultural heritage, and tourism. Additionally, the article aims to emphasize the importance and advantages of using laser scanning for creating precise and realistic 3D cave models, opening new possibilities for the study and preservation of natural unique formations. Method. The article describes the methodology used to create a 3D model of the Medova Cave, which involves several key steps. Firstly, a thorough reconnaissance of the cave is conducted to identify technical and logistical aspects such as temperature, humidity, movement restrictions, and lighting that are necessary for the scan. Next, ground-based laser scanning is employed, proving effective in conditions of complete darkness and limited space, to ensure accurate data collection regarding the cave's geometry. Reflective markers are strategically placed inside the cave before scanning, facilitating efficient scanning and alignment of scans. Specialized equipment such as GNSS receivers (Trimble R7) and ground-based laser scanners (Faro Focus 3D 120) are utilized for data collection. Software tools like Faro Scene are used for stitching together scans into a unified 3D point cloud model during data processing. Finally, the accuracy of marker connections is analyzed to ensure high-quality registration, and the 3D model is constructed. Detailed 3D models, including textured models and cross-sections for visualizing the internal structure of the cave, were constructed using software such as Move. Results. The research on the Medova Cave, employing ground-based laser scanning, yielded an accurate and detailed 3D model of the cave. This model opens new perspectives for geological and geomorphological studies, tourism development, and cultural heritage preservation. The use of advanced scanning technologies allowed for a comprehensive representation of the cave's geometric features, considering its complex structure and varied dimensions. Scientific novelty and practical significance. The creation of the 3D model of the Medova cave using laser scanning signifies progress in cave geometry studies. The innovation lies in the utilization of advanced laser scanning technologies to ensure a detailed representation of the cave's geometric features, accounting for its complex structure and diverse dimensions. The novelty also lies in the development of a data collection and processing strategy in conditions of complete darkness and limited cave space, resulting in an accurate and realistic 3D model. Practically, the 3D model of the Medova Cave serves as a crucial tool for geological and geomorphological research and the exploration of unique natural formations. The model opens new opportunities for tourism development, where virtual cave exploration can provide a unique experience for visitors. Creating this 3D model is a significant step in preserving and documenting cultural heritage, contributing to the scientific and cultural development of the region, and providing access to unique objects for researchers and the public.

Meatless gastronomy: a threat or an opportunity for tourism development?

PurposeMeat overconsumption by tourists is one of the key issues in the sustainability of tourist destinations. The objective of this paper is to assess the impact that a promotion of meatless gastronomy and its actual increased availability would have on the attractiveness and visitation of a popular European urban destination.Design/methodology/approachThe research uses an innovative foresight approach that combines environmental scanning and scenarios. The authors formulated the scenarios using the Delphi technique and working with 27 scholars whose insights into the topic were enhanced through theses that resulted from the environmental scanning. They provided their insights into how a promotion of meatless gastronomy would affect a destination. Subsequently, the authors synthetized their insights and formulated the scenarios.FindingsBased on two defined scenarios, the authors found that a meatless image represents an opportunity for the future development of an urban European destination. A long-term growth in visitor numbers can be achieved while ensuring environmental, economic and socio-cultural sustainability providing that relevant stakeholders are involved in the promotional activities.Originality/valueManagement of tourists' unsustainable eating habits is currently an unexplored issue. The present research addresses this topic and provides valuable insights that will help to address sustainability issues while making tourism destinations more attractive.

BARRIER-FREE STRATEGY FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF INCLUSIVE TOURISM IN UKRAINE

The article analyzes the Action Plan for 2023-2024 for the implementation of the National Strategy for Creating a Barrier-Free Environment in Ukraine for the period until 2030 (approved by the order of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine dated April 25, 2023 No. 372-p) to determine the opportunities for development of inclusive tourism. For this purpose, the research method which involves three levels was used: 1) study of strategic goals, vision, target indicators, expected results of each of the six directions of the National Strategy for Creating a Barrier-Free Environment in Ukraine for the period until 2030: physical, information, digital, social and civil, educational, economic; 2) selection of tasks from the Action Plan for 2023–2024 for the implementation of the National Strategy related to the development of inclusive tourism in Ukraine; 3) generalization of the activities of the Association of Inclusive Rehabilitation and Social Tourism, as well as the Center for Social and Educational Integration and Inclusive Rehabilitation and Social Tourism «Without Barriers» of Pavlo Tychyna Uman State Pedagogical University; identifying the resources of these centers for implementation of directions and action plan of the National Strategy in the context of inclusive tourism as a comprehensive rehabilitation of people with disabilities during the war and post-war recovery.Summarizing the activities of Pavlo Tychyna Uman State Pedagogical University, it was established that among the strategic goals, along with high-quality higher education, social issues are outlined. These issues are aimed at the social integration of vulnerable categories of citizens, in particular people with disabilities. Among the innovative technologies developed at the university, inclusive tourism is an effective means of complex rehabilitation. Theoretical and practical results from this problem occupy an important place in the development of inclusive tourism in Ukraine

Tourism in Ukrainian frontline communities: trends, challenges, and development prospects


 
 
 In Ukraine, as a result of Russia’s military aggression, tourism has suffered significant losses, and in regions close to or where hostilities are ongoing, it has ceased operations altogether. However, there are many examples in the world where countries have recovered quickly and successfully developed after armed conflicts. Given this, it is necessary to study foreign experience in restoring tourism and to develop the author’s own scientific and practical recommendations for further tourism development in wartime and post-war. The purpose of the article is to highlight new trends and peculiarities in the tourism sphere of the frontline communities of Ukraine (Zaporizhzhia, Dnipropetrovsk, Sumy, Kharkiv, and Donetsk regions) during the war and to develop the author’s recommendations for its further development, taking into account the primary data of a sociological survey of tourism rep- resentatives. The study was based on the results of a sociological survey of tourism business owners, employees of tourist infrastructure and attractions, representatives of tourism NGOs, and executive authorities coordinating tourism activities in the frontline territories of Ukraine. The respondents were 144 people from 5 regions of Ukraine: Dnipropetrovs’k, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia, Sumy, and Kharkiv regions. The sociological survey was conducted from February 2 to 15, 2023 by Estonian (Tallinn University) and Ukrainian scientists with the support of the Estonian Research Agency. The purpose of the survey was to identify the peculiarities of the state of Ukrainian frontline communities and the tourism business in the context of the war and prospects for the future. The sociological survey was conducted using the Google form tool on various areas of tourism business activity, such as the peculiarities of the tourism business before the war, the types of tourism practiced in the community before the outbreak of hostilities, changes in tourism after the outbreak of hostilities, problems and threats to the tourism business, prospects and opportunities for tourism development after the war, the greatest benefits for the community in terms of tourism business development during the war and the post-war period, participation in tourism clusters, and the development of tourism business in the community. The computer programs Microsoft Excel 2010, Adobe Photoshop 2021, and the program SPSS Statistics V21.0 were used for calculations, computations, and graphical constructions. Based on the results of the survey, we suggest ways to restore tourism in the frontline communities of Ukraine after the war.
 
 

Gastronomic tourism and smart solutions used for its development: the case of a region of Latvia

PurposeThe purpose of the study is to examine opportunities for gastronomic tourism development and smart solutions in the regions of Latvia.Design/methodology/approachThe methodology is based on a qualitative approach applied to examine the theoretical and legal frameworks for gastronomic tourism, as well as on a case study based on mapping and a typology of gastronomic tourism.FindingsAn analysis of priorities for the Kurzeme planning region (including Talsi municipality) in tourism development revealed that digitalization, the introduction of smart solutions important for travellers and the integration of the digital environment and innovative solutions into tourism services are specified in policy documents. An examination of a mapping of tourist services supplied in the Talsi municipality and the role of gastronomic tourism therein showed that such a mapping can serve as a basis for developing targeted smart and digital tourism products for Talsi municipality, which involves both the target audience and the typology of food tourist behaviour.Research limitations/implicationsThe examination of smart solutions for the regions of Latvia represented an in-depth case study of one municipality – Talsi. Talsi municipality was selected as a typical gastronomic destination, which offers a wide range of gastronomic tourism opportunities, and this kind of tourism is also referred to in the tourism development strategy of the municipality (region).Originality/valueThis study's contribution is determined by the constantly changing dynamic environment that fosters the differentiation of supply of tourism products, as well as the integration of smart solutions into tourism products. Gastronomic tourism in Latvia and the Baltic states plays a steady role in contributing to the recognition of the cultural environment and regional traditions; therefore, the supply of smart solutions is essential and significant from the regional perspective. The originality of the research is also determined by an examination of smart solutions for gastronomic tourism in the tourism products supplied in the region.

Tourism activities in the frontline areas of Sumy region: problems, opportunities and prospects

The Sumy region has great and significant tourism potential. Before the Russo-Ukrainian War, the region had 3,465 historical and cultural monuments, including 367 architectural and urban planning monuments (five of them of national importance). Before the war, the tourism sector was developing steadily, with new types of tourism services and the formation of tourism clusters. However, Russia's Invasion of Ukraine resulted in a significant decrease in tax revenues, which has a negative impact on tourism. The purpose of this paper is to study the peculiarities and future prospects of tourism development in the Sumy region during the war, based on data from a sociological survey conducted in five Ukrainian frontline regions in the framework of the Estonian-Ukrainian research project "Development of Ukrainian frontline communities and tourism business during the war and future strategy", which was supported by the Estonian Research Agency. The sociological survey was conducted online and included 25 closed and open-ended questions. Survey results were processed using Microsoft Excel 2010 and SPSS Statistics V21.0. A total of 29 respondents (20.1%) from the Sumy region participated in the sociological survey, 69% of whom live in urban areas and 31% in rural areas. Analysis of the areas of activity of the tourism respondents from the Sumy region revealed that urban respondents were more representative of tourism businesses (tour operators, travel agents, sole proprietors, etc.), while rural respondents were predominantly representatives of tourist attractions (museums, educational and recreational facilities, etc.). Responses to the following questions were analyzed: pre-war tourism activities, wartime tourism activities, changes in tourism, prospects for tourism development, threats and opportunities for tourism development, problems in the tourism sector, prospects for tourism development, and advantages in cluster cooperation.

Developing a tourism region through tourism and culture: bordering, branding, placemaking and governance processes

ABSTRACT China’s pre-pandemic national-level planning advocated a combination of culture and tourism to advance growth in the Greater Bay Area (GBA) mega-region. Culture is seen as increasing regional cohesion, with multi-destination travel products connecting subregions and cities. This paper examines perceptions of progress towards a coherent GBA cultural identity and its implications for tourism. We examine tourism stakeholder perceptions of the GBA, assess the prospects for the development of collective identities in the region and assess the prospects for implementation of the GBA brand. Surveys and interviews with stakeholders indicate that the prevalent top-down planning approach has so far generated limited regional coherence and may also be limiting bottom-up placemaking initiatives. Debordering between Hong Kong, Macao and the mainland cities offers opportunities for tourism development, but these have so far been limited, also because of intensifying competition between mainland GBA cities in international markets, challenging the implementation of an umbrella brand. Regional stakeholders so far show little buy-in to the overarching ‘quality living circle’ concept for the GBA. New governance structures may be to support the development of a coherent regional identity and generate place leadership to successfully combine top-down and bottom-up placemaking initiatives.

Европейският зелен пакт и перспективите пред винения туризъм в България

This scientific article aims to analyze the opportunities for sustainable development of wine tourism in the context of the European Green Pact. The Green Deal and the goals it sets for the countries of the community are discussed. An analysis of the wine production in Bulgaria and the European Union (EU) has been made. A definition of sustainable tourism according to the leading ecological norms has been derived. The goals set are related to the new conditions that wine tourism will face. The expectations from the implementation of the European Green Pact are discussed. Emphasis is placed on the relationship between wine producers and wine tourism. Examples of sustainable wine tourism in a modern, efficient and competitive economy are given. Based on the analysis, the conclusions are presented.

Activating socio-cultural values for sustainable tourism development in natural protected areas

Despite the widely recognized importance of involvement of diverse stakeholders for sustainable tourism and protected areas development, there remains a lack of understanding of what participatory processes can do and how they can be made productive. In this article, we focus on stakeholders’ socio-cultural values and demonstrate how they can be activated through tourism co-design for advancing sustainable tourism development in natural protected areas. Evidence from 11 nature and national parks in Denmark detail how tourism co-design can contribute to changing the dialogue, negotiating differences, and bridging disagreements between stakeholders and identify latent opportunities for sustainable tourism development. This nationwide study, firstly, advances sustainable development theory by demonstrating how sustainable transformations can be leveraged from shared values by stakeholders who identify with a protected area. Secondly, we propose how distant sustainable tourism futures can be imagined and made relatable with others.

ПОЛЯРНО-АЛЬПИЙСКИЙ БОТАНИЧЕСКИЙ САД-ИНСТИТУТ КАК ОСОБО ОХРАНЯЕМАЯ ПРИРОДНАЯ ТЕРРИТОРИЯ И МЕСТО ДЛЯ РАЗВИТИЯ ТУРИЗМА: ПРЕДСТАВЛЕНИЯ ЖИТЕЛЕЙ КИРОВСКО-АПАТИТСКОГО РАЙОНА

Today, the demand for environmentally responsible tourism is growing noticeably. Travelers demonstrate an interest in exploring undisturbed nature that can be found in special protection areas. As part of a network of such areas, botanical gardens can become important elements in the development of sustainable tourism in regions and cities. However, this is no easy task, as it requires preserving natural ecosystems while providing comfortable conditions for tourists. One of the foundations for environmental activities is the opinion of local communities about nature conservation. As the first step towards promoting sustainable tourism on the territory of the Polar-Alpine Botanical Garden-Institute of N. A. Avrorin (PABGI; Kola Science Centre of the Russian Academy of Sciences), the only botanical garden in Russia operating in the Arctic, a survey was conducted to investigate the opinions of local residents about this institution as a special protection area and the possibilities for tourism development. The Botanical Garden is an essential element of the historical and cultural landscape not only of the city of Kirovsk but also of the neighboring city of Apatity. The respondents generally demonstrated a high level of environmental awareness. However, questions about the PABGI’s territorial boundaries and the species of plants listed in the Red Book of the Murmansk region posed challenges. The survey revealed that residents of the Kirovsko-Apatitsky district have a positive attitude towards tourism development on the PABGI’s territory. They recognize that it is a protected area and that maintaining special visitation rules is crucial. The results indicate that PABGI needs to intensify its efforts in organizing educational events and interacting with the population, as respondents repeatedly noted the need to expand such activities. According to the citizens, the territory of the botanical garden is a platform where researchers, residents, nature, and culture can interact. Currently, PABGI faces difficulties in performing functions other than its primary ones of natural ecosystem conservation and research. This is largely because special regulations are required on the territory of protected areas, and there are not enough opportunities for sustainable tourism development. A consistent strategy for improving and developing tourism infrastructure needs to be developed in the future.

Organisational learning and sustainable tourism: the enabling role of digital transformation

PurposeOrganisational learning drives tourism organisations towards more sustainable tourism. Digital transformation also provides opportunities for sustainable tourism development. This study aims to combine these perspectives and explore how digital transformation enables organisational learning to contribute to sustainable tourism, following organisational learning theory (OLT).Design/methodology/approachBased on a critical realist paradigm, this study focuses on developing an in-depth understanding of organisational learning in tourism organisations. Thirty qualitative interviews with tourism organisations participating in an executive development programme (EDP) show how tourism organisations create, retain and transfer knowledge.FindingsThis study demonstrates that the EDP initiates knowledge creation through content transmission and exchange, triggers knowledge retention through utilisation of digital technologies and reinforces digitalisation through data value creation. Furthermore, this study enables knowledge transformation as implementation, which contributes to the three pillars of sustainable tourism and facilitates the development of networks encouraging sustainable tourism.Originality/valueThis study identifies approaches that enable economic, social and environmentally sustainable tourism development by facilitating collaborations via digital transformation, digital technologies that guide guest streams, online mobility offers and online environmental awareness campaigns that reduce environmental impacts. Thus, this study strengthens OLT and has implications for organisational learning and tourism policymakers.

Stakeholders' Perspectives on Post-Pandemic Sustainable Tourism Development

This paper presents research focused on the post-pandemic opportunities of special interest tourism development, through elaboration of the stakeholders' perspectives on sustainable valorisation of local natural and cultural heritage in the changing global context. The main goal of the research was to analyse the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on key stakeholders’ activities and their attitudes towards future sustainable tourism development. The empirical research has been realised in the Municipality of Vrsar, a typical Mediterranean tourist destination characterised by mass tourism and high seasonality. The research was based on a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods, including a literature review, semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders’ representatives and a tourists' attitudes survey. The conducted research indicated that the current pandemic could be seen also as an opportunity for all key stakeholders to reflect on the sustainability of the existing tourism practices and develop products which will be more nature-friendly and respond to new needs and expectations of changing tourist demand. The new, more sustainable, post-pandemic model of participatory governance in cultural and tourism development should involve all interested stakeholders, by developing a distinctive offer for special interest tourist segments which could disperse demand in time and space and prolong the tourism season.