Private Sector Tourism Research Articles

Stakeholder collaboration in tourism governance in Ghana

This paper analyses stakeholder collaboration in tourism governance in Ghana. It further examines the forms and rationale of stakeholder collaboration and the extent of stakeholder collaborations. The paper deployed the qualitative approach in research, descriptive research design and purposively selected 14 participants from public and private sector tourism organisations and local communities in Ghana’s tourism industry. These participants were selected based on their knowledge and experience in the tourism industry. The data was collected using in-depth interviews (IDI). The responses of participants were analysed inductively and deductively. Two key findings emerged from the study. First, it was found that there is a discernible line of authority where authority comes from the top management in the sector. Secondly, collaboration in the tourism sector is not well established.

Resettlement and Regeneration: The Pafuri Camp Joint-venture Lodge, Kruger National Park, South Africa

Abstract This case describes how the Makuleke community reclaimed formal ownership over their land in the Kruger National Park through a land restitution process in South Africa. On the basis that the land could only be used for conservation, the Makuleke formed agreements with private operators to build and operate joint-venture tourism lodges. These generated income, employment and empowered people that had previously been forcibly removed from land by the state. Information Snyman, S. and Spenceley, A. (2019) Private Sector Tourism in Conservation Areas in Africa, CABI © CAB International 2019

Combatting Climate Change, Supporting Biodiversity Conservation and Benefitting Local People at Mombo, Okavango Delta, Botswana

Abstract Mombo Camp is located on Chief’s Island in the Moremi Game Reserve within the Okavango Delta of Botswana. This case study explains how the camp has dramatically reduced its carbon emissions by converting its power from diesel generators to 100% solar energy, and made substantial contributions to black and white rhino re-introductions in the country. Through its lease fees, employment, and procurement, the lodge has also made substantial contributions to the local and national economy during the course of its concession period. Information Snyman, S. and Spenceley, A. (2019) Private Sector Tourism in Conservation Areas in Africa, CABI © CAB International 2022

Outsourcing Management to the Private Sector, Community-Based Tourism in Mozambique

Abstract Covane Community Lodge is located in the buffer zone of the Limpopo National Park in Mozambique, and within the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Conservation Area. Over the years the accommodation has been supported with funds from USAID and the World Bank, and with technical support from non-governmental organisations. The community owners ran the lodge for several years, but commercial success, and better benefits for the community, have been achieved by outsourcing the management to the private company Scholtz Consutoria e servicos Lda. Information Snyman, S. and Spenceley, A. (2019) Private Sector Tourism in Conservation Areas in Africa, CABI © CAB International 2022

Creating Community Conservation Areas and Sustainable Livelihood Options at Nkwichi Lodge, Lake Malawi, Mozambique

Abstract Nkwichi is a 14-bed lodge located on the shores of Lake Malawi. The lodge has collaborated with 16 communities to establish the 120,000 hectare Manda Wilderness Community Conservation Area of Mozambique. The lodge supports 40 permanent local employees, and represents the only formal employment available in the area. Nkwichi has facilitated a halt to hunting in the reserve, sustainable agriculture initiatives and the application of solar power for electricity. Information Snyman, S. and Spenceley, A. (2019) Private Sector Tourism in Conservation Areas in Africa, CABI © CAB International 2022

Elephant Viewing, Honey Production and Joint-Venture Tourism at Ndzou Camp, Chimanimani National Reserve, Mozambique

Abstract Ndzou Camp is a 22-bed ecotourism development located in the Moribane Forest Reserve, in the buffer zone of the Chimanimani National Reserve in Mozambique. Ndzou is a joint venture between Kubatana Moribane, a local community association, and the Mozambican private company Eco-Micaia Lda (Eco-Micaia). After eight years of operating accommodation, elephant tracking, forest walks and visits to local communities and sacred places, Ndzou was still operating at the fringes of commercial viability. Despite this, the camp has provided a platform for a wider engagement process in the forest zone, including expansion of a honey production programme, promotion of sustainable agriculture and the creation of community managed conservation areas. Information Snyman, S. and Spenceley, A. (2019) Private Sector Tourism in Conservation Areas in Africa, CABI © CAB International 2022

Philanthropy, Local Employment, and Environmental Audits at Ngala Private Game Reserve, South Africa

Abstract Ngala Private Game Reserve is a safari lodge owned by the World Wide Fund for Nature – South Africa (WWF-SA) within the Kempiana Contractual National Park in South Africa. andBeyond has a 20-year lease to operate a safari lodge and tented camp, and traverse the reserve. The lodge generates benefits for local people through employment and by channelling donations through the Africa Foundation into community health, education and small business development initiatives. The lodge monitors its environmental impacts through bi-annual audits that are submitted to the Department of Environmental Affairs. Information Snyman, S. and Spenceley, A. (2019) Private Sector Tourism in Conservation Areas in Africa, CABI © CAB International 2022

Climate services for tourism: Insights from Caribbean Small Island Developing States

Peer reviewed literature on the availability and use of climate services in the operations and management of tourism is scarce. Using a multi-method approach, we provide insights on both basic and specialised climate information utilised by a range of public and private sector tourism decision-makers in the most tourism-dependent region in the world - the Caribbean. We also examined whether existing climate information meets tourism destination planning, marketing and operational decision-making needs and how the tourism industry could more effectively and efficiently integrate climate information to enhance sector performance. Results from research with 47 Caribbean hoteliers and tourism policy-makers show that short-term destination and source market weather information are widely consulted, but the use of historical climate information and longer-term climate forecasts is comparatively lower. There are few tailored climate information products and services, and uptake of the few that exist is low. Current climate information inadequately fulfills decision-makers’ needs due to a number of challenges, including a short history of engagement between the climate and tourism communities, along with a partial understanding of the needs and preferences of tourism stakeholders. Evidence suggests that a new generation of specialised climate information products can enhance climate risk management amongst tourism suppliers. Further research and relationship building will be needed to support the co-production and uptake of tailored climate information for the Caribbean tourism sector. Tourism-dependent Small Island Developing States in other regions interested in pursuing climate services for tourism can learn from the experience and approach used in the Caribbean.

Evolution of the Joint-Venture Partnership of Phinda Private Game Reserve, South Africa

Abstract This case study describes how Phinda Private Game Reserve has evolved over three decades from privately owned land and infrastructure at the outset, to a mixture of community owned land and a joint-venture partnership. The operations have generated substantial benefits for conservation and social benefits for local people over many years. Information Snyman, S. and Spenceley, A. (2019) Private Sector Tourism in Conservation Areas in Africa. CABI, Chapter 4.4.1, Case study 26: Phinda Private Game Reserve, South Africa. pp 119-122 © CAB International 2021

Development of the Joint-Venture Anvil Bay Chemucane Lodge in the Maputo Special Reserve, Mozambique

Abstract This case explains the story of the establishment of Anvil Bay; a nine-chalet (18-bed) lodge situated in the Maputo Special Reserve in Mozambique. The government of Mozambique awarded a 50-year concession to the Ahi Zameni Chemucane Association, which in turn has a 25-year agreement with the Chemucane Tourism Company, a joint-venture company, to develop and operate the lodge. The development of the lodge has received technical and financial support from non-governmental organisations and a development bank. Information Snyman, S. and Spenceley, A. (2019) Private Sector Tourism in Conservation Areas in Africa, CABI, Chapter 4.1.1, Case study 19: Anvil Bay, Chemucane Lodge, Mozambique, pp96-99 © CAB International 2021

Community benefits from !Xaus Lodge in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, South Africa

Abstract This case describes how !Xaus Lodge, a 24-bed community owned lodge in the remote Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, provides employment and other economic opportunities to ‡Khomani San and Mier communities in South Africa. By partnering with the private operator Transfrontier Parks Destinations, the lodge has been able to access markets and generate positive returns for the state and rural community members. Information Snyman, S. and Spenceley, A. (2019) Private Sector Tourism in Conservation Areas in Africa. Chapter 4.3.3, Case study 25: !Xaus Lodge, South Africa. CAB International, pp. 116–119. © CAB International 2021

Commercial success from a community partnership with the private sector, at Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge in the Maloti Drakensberg Transfrontier Park World Heritage Site, South Africa

Abstract Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge (WML) is an 88-bed lodge in the South African section of the Maloti Drakensberg Transfrontier Park World Heritage Site. WML is a community owned lodge, privately operated by Transfrontier Parks Destinations (TFPD). By providing business acumen, market linkages, and securing investment finance TFPD has transformed a dilapidated community owned lodge into a thriving enterprise. It generates meaningful financial returns for the community owners, and also secure full-time employment for local people. Furthermore, the lodge has been independently certified as a sustainable tourism business by Fair Trade Tourism. Information Snyman, S. and Spenceley, A. (2019) Private Sector Tourism in Conservation Areas in Africa, CABI, Chapter 4.3.1, Case study 23: Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge, South Africa, pp 109-111 © CAB International 2021

Domestic Tourism in Nepal: Issues and Challenges

Compared to international tourism, domestic tourism is less susceptible to external changes and provides a more stable business environment for industry stakeholders. Traditionally, the focus of a majority of tourism research has been international tourism. Existing domestic tourism literature predominantly focuses on the potential of domestic tourism and the measurement of its demands, but greatly ignores the issues and challenges in the domestic tourism industry. This article fills this gap and examines the issues and challenges the domestic tourism industry is facing with a focus on Nepal, a South Asian developing country. The data for this study were collected through semistructured interviews with 20 tourism industry practitioners. The findings of this study demonstrate how uncertainties created by the lack of institutional arrangements and prioritization, and confusion around the appropriate ways and means of managing domestic tourism have contributed to the chaos in the private sector tourism industry in Nepal. Implications for the government and other stakeholders in Nepal and other developing countries have been discussed.

What are the key advances in human resource development that tourism in Guyana needs by 2025?

PurposeIn this viewpoint paper, the key advances needed for human resource development in the tourism industry of Guyana are outlined. The purpose of this paper is to present the author’s perspective backed up by relevant literature.Design/methodology/approachThis research is exploratory in nature. Secondary data were collected to provide background to the research and primary data were collected via a survey of private sector tourism organizations.FindingsData gathered show that the tourism industry is primed and ready to accept changes in HR training. Notable areas are first responder training; basic and advanced wine training; preventative maintenance; specialized food and beverage skills; advanced culinary arts and foreign languages. In addition to the skills required, the findings showed that some legislative work needs to be carried out such as the draft tourism policy being made into law.Originality/valueIt is anticipated that the findings of this research will guide policy makers in drafting a human resource development policy for the tourism industry.

Equity in tourism development: procedural (in)justice and distributive justice in Mongolia, East Asia

This paper considers procedural justice and distributive justice as a means of examining equity in tourism development. The geographical focus of the paper is Mongolia - historically a unitary sovereign socialist state in East Asia that, in common with Central Asian republics and in contrast to other parts of the eastern sub-region of the Asian continent (China, Korea, Japan and Taiwan), has been shaped by Stalinist Soviet Union policies. This particular context is interesting not only in terms of consolidation of power, and economic, political and social transition, but also with respect to the nature of material wealth and livelihood options. Equity in tourism development in two rural Mongolian regions is explored with specific reference to the concepts of procedural justice and distributive justice. Drawing on political ecology and actor-oriented approaches, the paper considers equity from the perspectives of five actor groups: local grassroots, people in two geographical areas; private sector tourism operators; Government officials; International Development Organisations and academics; and NGOs. Three periods of fieldwork were conducted, providing qualitative interview data, complemented by non-participant observations, and secondary data. Framework analysis is applied as an analytic induction tool. Five emergent themes are discussed here relating to procedural (in)justice and distributive justice. Inequity was perceived to be rooted more strongly in the processes of tourism development rather than in the outcomes but the inter-related nature of process and outcome, linked to opportunities and capabilities, is noted (Sen, 1984; 1992; 1999).

Historical Evolution and Spatial Development of Tourism in Cuba, 1919–2017: What is Next?

ABSTRACTThe main objective of the article is to analyze the historical evolution and spatial development of tourism in Cuba, from its beginnings in 1919 to present day (2017). The potential of Cuba as an international destination is considered with a focus on examining various factors leading to changes in types of tourism development and tourist markets over time. In this evaluation, it is clear that the socio-economic and political history of Cuba has been intricately linked with the development of tourism. Specifically, policy, regulations, and government organization leadership are investigated for their influence on tourism development. Additionally, this paper identifies four important events that are significantly transforming the current landscape of tourism in Cuba, including the lift on domestic travel restrictions, increased emphasis on self-employment and private sector tourism enterprises, evolving diplomatic relations with the US, and opportunities for foreign investment in the tourism sector. Scenarios for future development are considered in light of these events whose effects on Cubans and Cuban tourism are still not fully known.

ECONOMIC IMPLICATIONS OF ECOTOURISM IN MARINE PROTECTED AREAS: TUN MUSTAPHA PARK, SABAH

Socio-cultural effects of tourism on local communities are now a major focus of academic study. Primarily, the concern is with communities in tourist areas who become hosts and the tourists who become their temporary guests. The development of ecotourism in environmentally sensitive areas can have both positive and negative consequences. This paper examines: (1) whether ecotourism is feasible in marine protected areas; (2) the challenges faced by stakeholders in public–private partnerships in developing ecotourism; and (3) the needs in ensuring economic sustainability of displaced communities in and around the Tun Mustapha Park, Sabah, Malaysia. This study has employed a mixed method in data collection which includes participatory discussions, semi-structured interviews, and on-site observations and surveys with various respondents — namely, public and private sector stakeholders and local communities. The observed evidence has shown that with adequate planning and support from private sector tourism stakeholders and relevant public agencies, local communities and the natural environment can stand to benefit from ecotourism development in the area.

Destination Competitiveness: Public and Private Sector Tourism Management in Serbia

This study explores the underlying dimensions of destination competitiveness, analyzing the contributions of government and industry stakeholders in enhancing the competitive position of Serbia on the international tourism market. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis were used to explore latent dimensionality of “destination competitiveness” among 48 competitiveness attributes evaluated by experts from the public and private sectors of Serbia’s tourism industry. Results show that Serbian competitiveness structure comprises five dimensions: risk management and adaptive environmental strategies, innovation and product development, planning for sustainable development, networking and community concern, and education for sustainability. The research identifies challenges and suggests areas where private and public linkages should be strengthened in order to enhance the competitiveness of Serbia’s tourism industry. Generically, the study advances our understanding of destination competitiveness, its multidimensional nature, and the implications for policy making.

ECONOMIC IMPLICATIONS OF ECOTOURISM IN MARINE PROTECTED AREAS: TUN MUSTAPHA PARK, SABAH

Socio-cultural effects of tourism on local communities are now a major focus of academic study. Primarily, the concern is with communities in tourist areas who become hosts and the tourists who become their temporary guests. The development of ecotourism in environmentally sensitive areas can have both positive and negative consequences. This paper examines: (1) whether ecotourism is feasible in marine protected areas; (2) the challenges faced by stakeholders inpublic–private partnerships in developing ecotourism; and (3) the needs in ensuring economic sustainability of displaced communities in and around the Tun Mustapha Park, Sabah, Malaysia. This study has employed a mixed method in data collection which includes participatory discussions, semi-structured interviews, and on-site observations and surveys with various respondents — namely, public and private sector stakeholders and local communities. The observed evidence has shown that with adequate planning and support from private sector tourism stakeholders and relevant public agencies, local communities and the natural environment can stand to benefit from ecotourism development in the area.

The role of charities in social tourism

The aim of this paper is to examine the extent to which charities contribute to social tourism activity and the forms which these contributions might take. The needs of those disadvantaged because of personal, economic or social circumstances are central to the enquiry. An earlier piece by Turner, Miller and Gilbert (2001), which explores the broader role of UK charities in the tourism industry, suggesting them to operate outside, within and above the tourism industry, provides a framework for initial consideration. Primary qualitative data collected from 20 charitable organisations are considered next with fundraising, accommodation support and signposting activities, all common areas of charitable involvement, noted. This paper concludes by extending the earlier framework presented by Turner et al. (2001) [The role of UK charities and the tourism industry. Tourism Management, 22, 463–472] to include a surrogate dimension. It also comments upon the piecemeal support offered by charities to disadvantaged consumers, makes the case for the charitable and private sector tourism industry to seek ways of working together in the future and offers some tentative suggestions for future research. These suggestions are linked to both the research methodology employed in the study and the need for further research linked to consumer attitudes towards charitable giving.