Sustainable Tourism Destination Research Articles

Mapping Gamification for Sustainable Urban Development: Generating New Insights for Tourism Education

Although scientific literature already shows the connections between gamification, tourism and sustainability, there is still a gap in research into how gamification can transform cities into more playful, sustainable and intelligent tourism destinations. Gamification in tourism promotes engagement, education and innovation, enriching experiences and driving the development of smart destinations. This study advances this debate by employing a mixed methodology, combining a systematic review (supported by Rayyan, an artificial intelligence) and content analysis (supported by Iramuteq, a textual software, version 0.7 Alpha 2). Additionally, we used Dreamscape by Voyant Tools online for a geographical analysis of the textual corpus formed by n = 61 abstracts. The intersection of main findings from the techniques applied provides eight new insights on urban tourism education through gamification, which are as follows: (1) exchange between the Global North and South; (2) local and global participation; (3) collaborations to achieve the 17 SDGs; (4) improve urban destination marketing by ethics principles; (5) deepening disruption technology and ethics studies; (6) the transformation of reality by sciences; (7) gamification on interdisciplinary perspectives; and (8) the role of gamification on the tourism and hospitality industry. The results suggest that gamification in tourism can offer a new ontological approach to addressing sustainable urban development, highlighting both theoretical and practical challenges. This research has both theoretical and practical implications, advancing the concept of ecogaming by integrating technology, entertainment and sustainability, and reinforces its potential to educate and engage in sustainable urban tourism practices.

Stakeholder Collaboration through the Pentahelix Model in the Tetebatu Nature Fest 2024 Event

The Tetebatu Nature Fest 2024 is the inaugural event aimed at branding Tetebatu Village, East Lombok, as an international nature tourism destination. This study seeks to analyze the role of the pentahelix model, which involves the government, academia, businesses, communities, and media in the implementation of this event. Additionally, it aims to identify challenges and strategic solutions to enhance stakeholder collaboration effectiveness. A qualitative approach was employed, utilizing interviews, observations, and document analysis. The findings indicate that the pentahelix collaboration positively contributes to tourism promotion, local community empowerment, and cultural preservation. However, challenges such as lack of stakeholder coordination and resource limitations need to be addressed. This study concludes that strengthening coordination, fostering active community involvement, and diversifying promotional strategies are essential. The research provides significant contributions to the development of collaborative-based tourism to establish a sustainable tourism destination

How Confucian values activate tourist environmentally responsible behavior? — an activated perspective of planned behavior

ABSTRACT Knowledge of how Chinese tourists’ behavior is subject to Chinese culture is limited. Based on the Theory of Planned Behavior and Trait Activation Theory, this study aims to explore how individuals with Confucian values are motivated by situational factors and environmental cognition to exhibit tourist environmentally responsible behavior (TERB) that aligns with Confucian principles. Employing an activated perspective of planned behavior, we propose that values trait facilitates TERB through environmental attitude, subjective norm, and environmental self-efficacy. Additionally, we suggest that behavioral reference enhances the transformation process from tourist to environmentalist. Quantitative data supports our main hypotheses. A qualitative study further explores alternative boundary mechanisms by which Confucian values promote TERB, including social and personal factors related to governmental environmental intervention and personal environmental resources. The findings offer insights into Easterners’ TERB, aiding in a better understanding of a specific tourist market and providing references for sustainable tourism destination development.

Characteristics of the Tourist Offerings of Cittaslow in Spain and Africa

ABSTRACT While studies on slow tourism exist, research that employs a territorial perspective to investigate whether local governments in slow destinations are promoting their tourism offerings as slow, responsible, and sustainable is not common. Drawing on the theoretical principles of the international cittaslow network regarding what slow tourism should entail, this study analyses, using various tools, some characteristics of the 12 cittaslow locations in Spain and 2 in Africa. Evidence is sought to determine whether the dissemination of their territorial resources on their official websites aligns with the philosophical principles of the network. The results indicate that the majority should improve their dissemination efforts to highlight their status as slow destinations. Finally, a practical suggestion is made to encourage them to promote themselves as slow, responsible, and sustainable tourist destinations without incurring additional costs.

Peningkatan Kualitas Tata Kelola Destinasi Wisata di Desa Krikilan Kalijambe Kabupaten Sragen

Improving the Quality of Tourism Destination Management in Krikilan Village, Kalijambe, Sragen Regency This article aims to describe the factors contributing to the limited involvement of local communities in tourism development, identify the need for improved management of tourist village destinations, and explore efforts to enhance tourism services to attract more visitors. The discussion focuses on the conditions of the Sangiran Site as a cultural heritage that must be preserved, emphasizing the role of local communities in supporting its sustainability and appeal. The article highlights challenges such as the lack of central permissions despite various local initiatives to boost attractiveness. Additionally, inadequate promotion is identified as an obstacle to introducing the destination to a broader audience. This article underscores the importance of active community participation in preserving authenticity and maximizing the potential of the Sangiran Site as a sustainable historical tourism destination. These efforts are expected to support cultural preservation and improve local welfare.

From mining to tourism: Sustainable management of the former mining area of Tebing Breksi

Abstract Tebing Breksi is a former cliff rock mining site now designated as a geological heritage site conservation area. Since 2014, mining activities in this area have been stopped and transformed into tourism activities. The transformation of former mining areas like this often leads to environmental problems after the mining exploitation process is complete. However, the right approach can transform the area into an attractive tourism destination while maintaining environmental sustainability. This article will examine sustainable management strategies to transform former cliff mining areas into sustainable tourism destinations. Through a qualitative case study analysis and literature review, we identify best practices in designing and managing former cliff mining areas for sustainable tourism. The integration of economic, socio-cultural, and natural environmental factors must be explored to achieve sustainable tourism goals. Our findings show that with strong involvement from various stakeholders and targeted strategy implementation, transforming the former cliff mine area into a sustainable tourism destination is easily achievable while considering socio-cultural aspects. Ex-mining tourism activities provide significant economic and environmental benefits to local communities and the surrounding environment.

Development of a Web-Based Village Tourism Management Information System to Support Sustainable Tourism Destinations

Digitalization in local tourism development is essential as it significantly impacts the growth and sustainability of Tourism Villages. This study aims to develop a website-based Tourism Management Information System to support sustainable tourism development in Tourism Villages in Maluku. The Rapid Application Development (RAD) method was utilized to build the system, consisting of four stages: Requirement Planning, User Design (Iterative: prototype, testing, and refinement), Construction, and Cutover. The iterative process during the User Design stage accelerated system development by continuously incorporating user feedback and needs. System testing employed usability testing during the User Design phase and black-box testing during the Construction phase. The results of this study demonstrate that the developed system successfully fulfills user requirements, enhancing the management and accessibility of Tourism Villages. Key features include tour package selection and an online reservation system, simplifying travel arrangements for visitors. This system significantly impacts tourism development by improving operational efficiency, promoting local attractions, and fostering economic growth in Tourism Villages. Furthermore, the system contributes to the sustainability of tourism by encouraging digital transformation, increasing visitor engagement, and supporting local communities through enhanced tourism services.

Identification and Development Cultural Tourism of Gebong Memarong Mapur Traditional Village Using SWOT Analysis

The existence of local culture is quite a challenge in the face of increasingly massive modernization. The preservation, development, and utilization of cultural objects are strategic steps in maintaining local cultural entities. Cultural entities in the form of traditional villages have the potential to be developed into sustainable local wisdom-based cultural tourism destinations. One of the newly formed traditional villages in Bangka Regency is the Gebong Memarong Mapur Traditional Village. This research aims to identify cultural objects in Gedong Memarong Mapur Traditional Village and their development potential as cultural tourism attractions. The method used in this research is a qualitative method using a SWOT analysis approach to identify cultural objects and other potential tourist attractions that can attract tourists to visit. Data sources were obtained through observation, in-depth interviews, and literature studies. In-depth interviews were conducted three times with one of the customary village administrators, the Head of the Customary Institution, and the cultural person who assisted the Gebong Memarong Mapur Customary Village as well as one group discussion that focused on discussing cultural objects based on Bangka Melayu history, and Literature data collection was conducted by reviewing historical books and records related to the history of Bangka. The results showed that Gebong Memarong Mapur Traditional Village has a cultural and natural potential to be developed into a destination that has a unique history and local knowledge as a characteristic of Bangka Melayu culture. The development of cultural tourism destinations in Gebong Memarong Mapur Traditional Village must involve the natural potential around the area to add experience, knowledge, and satisfaction for tourists. Another indispensable aspect is increasing human resources capacity to manage tourist destinations based on excellent service and sustainable tourism facilities. In addition, the involvement of various policymakers has an important role in establishing stricter regulations to maintain conservation areas around Gebong Memarong Mapur Traditional Village.

Cross-Cultural Consumer Lifestyles and Sustainable Tourism in Rural Communities in Palembang Indonesia

Objective: To investigate how cross-cultural consumer lifestles influence rural tourism with the aim of evaluating the effectiveness of sharing economy knowledge partnerships (SEKPs) aimed at achieving UN’s Sustainable cities and communities goal (SDG 11) by transforming remote rural communities into sustainable tourism destinations in Indonesia. Theoretical Framework: Draws on the concepts of consumer lifestyles, rural tourism, sharing economy, postcolonialism, cross-culturalism, sustainable cities and communities, to development a conceptual framework for the study. Method: We adopt mixed research designs, involving questionnaire survey, observations, and semi-structured interviews between February-March 2022 in Indonesia. We asked participants about their willingness to collaborate to develop tourism in rural communities. The data collected was subjected to SPSS multiple regression and NVivo thematic content analysis. Results and Discussion: We identified three factors influencing consumer lifestyles relating to UN’s SDG11: ‘collectivism’, ‘strategic orientation’, and ‘power-relationship’. We discussed these relational factors under seven thematic findings: ‘performance orientation’, ‘thinking strategically’, ‘anxiety tolerance’, ‘integrative relationship’, ‘gender balance’, ‘relational tendency’, and ‘market dynamism’. Research Implications: The findings have implications for theory and practice in the field of sustainable tourism destination development, considering the urgency for achieving SDG11. Future research would include a wider range of stakeholders in Indonesia and other Southeast Asia countries to enhance the generalisability of the findings. Originality/Value: The adoption of a Postcolonial lens and a Cross-cultural perspective help to clarify the concepts of consumer lifestyles, the role of SEKPs, and importance of achieving UN’s SDG11 in the transformation of rural communities into sustainable tourism destinations in Palembang, Indonesia.

Potensi Curug Cinulang Sebagai Wisata Berkelanjutan di Kabupaten Bandung

His research uses qualitative research methods to determine the potential of Curug Cinulang as a sustainable tourist destination in Bandung Regency. By using the triple bottom line concept which includes economic, environmental and social aspects, this research examines how tourism management at Curug Cinulang can provide balanced benefits for the surrounding community, the natural environment and the local economy. Data was obtained through in-depth interviews with various stakeholders, field observations, and document analysis. The results of the research show that management involving the active participation of local communities not only improves economic welfare through the creation of jobs and business opportunities, but also encourages the preservation of the natural environment around water. plunge. In addition, community involvement in tourism management creates a sense of shared ownership and responsibility, thereby strengthening social cohesion. These results show that Curug Cinulanghas great potential to develop sustainable tourism that provides long-term benefits for all stakeholders..

Peran Industri Perhotelan dalam Mendukung Pariwisata Heritage di Candi Tebing Tegalinggah Gianyar, Bali

This study aims to explore the role of the hospitality industry in supporting the development of heritage tourism at Candi Tebing Tegalinggah, Gianyar, Bali. The research employs a qualitative approach with data collection techniques including in-depth interviews and Focus Group Discussions (FGD) with hotel managers, hotel staff, heritage site managers, and tourists. Additionally, secondary data was obtained from documents, literature, and relevant reports. Data analysis was performed descriptively, focusing on identifying key themes from the discussions and interviews. The results indicate that the role of the hospitality industry in supporting heritage tourism at Candi Tebing Tegalinggah is still suboptimal. Despite the awareness of the heritage site's potential, hotels around the site have not fully leveraged this opportunity through integrated cultural tourism programs. Information about the site provided by hotels is also limited, reducing tourists' interest in visiting. Some hotels have demonstrated initiatives in supporting cultural preservation, but this involvement has not been formally coordinated. The study recommends enhancing collaboration between the hospitality sector and heritage site managers and developing more structured tourism programs to maximize the potential of Candi Tebing Tegalinggah as a sustainable heritage tourism destination.

Adaptive public relations and marketing in tourism: how South African timeshare businesses responded to the Covid-19 crisis

South Africa is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the African continent, with timeshares—vacation properties shared by multiple owners—being an important feature of the tourism industry as it contributes significant growth and sustainability of tourist destinations. After its introduction in the 1960s, timeshare gained popularity through its capability to provide luxury holiday affordability and security in South Africa. Since then, timeshare businesses have used traditional public relations, marketing, advertising strategies and tactics to increase brand awareness and reach sales targets. During the difficult COVID-19 period, global tourism declined drastically due to travel restrictions, extreme lockdowns and tight regulations, forcing businesses to adapt their marketing strategies to cope with unprecedented challenges and the loss of customers. Before the pandemic’s culmination, travel agencies and timeshares thus utilized digital marketing and social media to effectively strategise and publicly engage with their audiences online. Drawing upon McGuire’s (1969) theory of information processing, and Echtner and Ritchie’s (1993) destination image branding, a content and thematic analysis of two South African timeshare companies and their Facebook page content was studied to investigate the public relations tactics and marketing strategies implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic. Key findings reveal that timeshares engaged publicly with customers through posts which stimulated online participation, which included the sharing of images, information, updates, competitions and discounts, thus maximising the potential of social media to engage with stakeholders on a short to long term basis.

Remarkable journey on sustainable tourism destinations; case study on Bintan resort’s award winning on sustainable tourism destination

Bintan Resorts awarded the Certificate of Sustainable Tourism Destinations (2022–2025), has demonstrated a significant journey from its establishment to its current position as a leader in sustainable tourism. This research aims to explore the initiatives undertaken by Bintan Resorts in developing a sustainable tourism concept that balances environmental, economic, and socio-cultural aspects. The study elaborates on the best practices and learning experiences from Bintan Resorts’ efforts to achieve sustainable development, which considers the current and future economic, social, and environmental impacts. These initiatives address the needs of visitors, the tourism industry, the environment, and host communities. This study employs a qualitative descriptive approach through field observations, interviews with key stakeholders, and documentation analysis. The research findings reveal both achievements and challenges in implementing sustainability, including the need for stronger policies, stakeholder participation, and the adoption of sustainable practices within a complex system. Bintan Resorts exemplifies a well-executed development scenario that prioritizes sustainability through its blueprint and roadmap. The resort has contributed to economic growth, community empowerment, job creation, and environmental conservation. By employing biodiversity-sensitive approaches and integrating sustainability into all operations, Bintan Resorts has proven that resort development can protect and conserve fragile environments while simultaneously contributing to local, regional, and national economies. This case study highlights how thoughtful design, and planning can successfully align tourism development with environmental protection, societal benefits, and economic progress.

Impact Analysis of Disaster Mitigation, Socio-Cultural Adaptation, and Natural Resources Management on Sustainable Tourism Destination in Borobudur Temple, Yogyakarta

Impact Analysis of Disaster Mitigation, Socio-Cultural Adaptation, and Natural Resources Management on Sustainable Tourism Destination in Borobudur Temple, Yogyakarta

PENGEMBANGAN KAWASAN WISATA DANAU PERINTIS SEBAGAI DESTINASI WISATA BERKELANJUTAN BERBASIS SMART TOURISM

This research aims to identify the tourism potential of Perintis Lake and develop it as a sustainable tourism destination smart tourism. In addition, this research was conducted to analyze and evaluate the need for technology and innovation in the management of Lake Perintis-based tourist destinations smart tourism. The approach used in this research is qualitative with descriptive methods. This research uses primary and secondary data sources. Data collection was carried out through observation, interviews, FGD and documentation. The research results show that the Perintis Lake tourist area has the potential to be developed into a superior and sustainable tourist destination. This can be realized by implementing three main components smart tourism ie smart experience, smart business ecosystem And smart destination integrated through implementation smart tourism technology like informativeness, accessibility, interactivity, as well as personalization in its management. From all components smart tourism and smart tourism technology, has not been fully implemented in the management of the Perintis Lake tourist destination. Therefore, it is necessary to accelerate the provision of more adequate ICT infrastructure in its development.

Social Media Marketing Strategy to Promote Sustainable Tourism in Bantaeng Shallot Farms

This study aims to develop a comprehensive strategy for managing shallot farms in Desa Bonto Lojong as a sustainable tourism destination. The shallot farms have faced significant challenges due to the negative impact of viral content on social media, resulting in substantial losses for the farmers. To mitigate these effects, the farm owners have implemented measures such as installing fences to control visitor access. However, these temporary solutions do not address the underlying issues of sustainable tourism development. Using a qualitative research design with observation and Focus Group Discussion (FGD) methods, this study focuses on the social media marketing strategy, utilizing the 4Ps of marketing product, place, price, and promotion to promote the shallot farm as a sustainable tourism destination. The research aims to identify the potential of shallot farms as a tourist attraction while ensuring that the development is sustainable and beneficial for both the local community and the environment. The findings will provide insights into transforming shallot farms into sustainable tourism destinations, enhancing their economic viability while preserving ecological and social integrity. This study contributes to the body of knowledge on sustainable tourism development by highlighting community-based initiatives and the role of social media in promoting local agricultural products. The outcomes will be beneficial for policymakers, local stakeholders, and farmers, providing practical strategies to manage and promote their agricultural products sustainably.

Multi-Stakeholder Partnerships in the Development of Cultural Heritage Tourism in Binjai City

The cultural heritage buildings in Binjai City hold significant potential for cultural tourism, which can enhance the local economy and requires institutional support for development. Efforts to preserve cultural heritage while simultaneously improving the economic welfare of the community through tourism can be achieved through partnerships among involved stakeholders. Using a qualitative approach, this study analyzes the dynamics of partnerships between government, community members, business actors, academics, and the media in preserving and promoting the city’s cultural heritage. The findings indicate that multi-stakeholder partnerships are crucial for the successful development of cultural heritage tourism. Strong collaboration among various parties makes Binjai City's heritage sites attractive and sustainable tourism destinations. This research highlights the importance of cross-sector partnerships in cultural-based tourism development and provides policy recommendations for future development.

A Systematic Review for The Development of Sustainable Tourism Destinations Based on Sports Tourism

The study purpose: The project's goal is to develop sustainable tourism destinations in Kemuning Village by reviewing the literature on sports tourism Materials and methods: An extensive literature review was carried out. Articles from 2015 to 2024 covered ways to enhance sustainable tourism by fostering the growth of sports tourism. For electronic searches, Google Scholar, PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus are used. All the articles that discuss how to improve sports tourism-based tourist attractions are included here. Results: According to the integrated theory of tourism, sports have a role in (1) tourism management strategies, which include methods, facilities, tourist attractions, SOPs, infrastructure, additions and maintenance of facilities, sustainable management of natural resources, and visitor security and safety; (2) the role of stakeholders, which includes the government as a regulator and related institutions; and (3) the role of the authorities, which includes government agencies and institutions related to Sports tourism will increase visits to Central Java and improve the economy. Sports activities in tourist destinations can benefit local governments, enhance community welfare, and create more job opportunities if they are appropriately managed. Sports tourism and activities can be combined in Central Java. Conclusions: Combining sporting activities like river tubing, paragliding, tea gardens, and jeep communities with Kemuning Village in Ngargoyoso District, Karanganyar, Central Java, Indonesia, can help the village grow its tourism industry due to the fact that it influences the social, cultural , and economic growth of the area, promoting local advancement.

Festivals: an Opportunity for Sustainable Development of Tourism Regions

Objective: The purpose of this development is to present the opportunities provided by festivals as organized events for the sustainable development of tourism regions. Theoretical Framework: The article focuses on several key concepts. First, it examines the role of festivals as organized events in promoting tourism. Secondly, it is based on the sustainability principles, balancing environmental, economic and socio-cultural factors. Lastly, it considers event tourism as a significant driver for local development. Method: An empirical research which includes an analysis of published materials and documents that study organized events and festivals in particular as part of cultural and historical tourism was conducted. Results and Discussion: Festivals significantly contribute to the sustainable development of tourism regions by enhancing local cultural identity and attracting tourists. The successful organization of festivals can strengthen the image of a region, promoting long-term benefits for both the tourism industry and local communities. Research Implications: Festivals can serve as strategic tools for sustainable tourism development by fostering regional cultural identity and attracting tourists. Policymakers and tourism managers should prioritize festival planning and management as a means to enhance the economic, social and cultural sustainability of tourism regions. Originality/Value: The originality of the article lies in its focus on festivals as a unique catalyst for the sustainable development of tourism regions, highlighting their multifaceted impact on local economies, culture, and social cohesion. This study provides valuable insights into how well-managed festivals can enhance the long-term sustainability of tourism destinations, offering practical guidance for policymakers and event organizers.

A Review of Marketing Stratergies for Promoting Sustainable Tourism Destinations in India

Sustainable tourism for Indian destinations is promoted and marketed by utilizing marketing strategies to gain interest from travelers. However, the promotion of sustainable tourism destinations is achieved in a manner that does not jeopardize the environment or community conservation. Sustainable tourism is promoted by increasing the destination's visibility, which includes social media marketing, search engine optimization, and content marketing, one such example is the scheme of Swadesh Darshan, which was launched by the Indian tourism and it aims for the development of sustainable tourism destinations. Furthermore, enhancing cultural and community features in marketing might help to attract and retain tourists' interest, thereby strengthening sustainable tourism. To entice people to visit sustainable tourist places, the tourism sector is focusing on proper selling factors, physical improvements to attractions and accessibility, and proximity to other tourist sites. Overall, the current study reveals that a comprehensive Destination Management action plan can help accelerate India's green tourism transition. This study aims to understand some of the marketing strategies employed by Indian Tourism Industry on environmentally sustainable vacation spots. The Indian travel industry is impacted by sustainable tourism, one of the topics discussed in this article. This study is descriptive and relies only on books and periodicals covering a wide range of topics that are relevant to sustainable tourism destinations in India. Moreover, the present study also highlights, the importance of online marketing strategies for marketing sustainable Indian travel destinations which is discussed to have a better understanding of the future of the tourism sector in India. The particulars of the study are emerging from the SWOT analysis model for the assessment as well as the scrutinization of the potential of the Indian tourism industry.