Successful Tourism Destination Research Articles

Identifying Competitive Strategies for Successful Tourism Destination Development

The 1990s are shaping up to be a competitive battleground for the tourism industry where only the best managed tourism destinations will prosper. For that reason alone comprehensive strategic business plans must address the many factors that impact the quality of the tourism product including: overcrowding, environmental problems, visitor safety and security, seasonality problems, and sensitivity to local culture. Developing and implementing strategic plans that produce results in a mature industry, are an essential requirement if tourism destinations hope to succeed in the future. The paper utilizes Michael Porter's widely accepted theories in skategic management to guide destination managers in this planning process.