Sustainable Tourism Destination Research Articles

Evaluating Coastal Area Suitability and Ecological Carrying Capacity in Topejawa Village, South Sulawesi

Marine and coastal tourism has rapidly emerged as promising sectors with the potential to drive sustainable regional development. Achieving the status of a sustainable tourist destination requires adherence to specific criteria, particularly concerning the ecological carrying capacity of tourism activities. This study aims to evaluate the suitability and carrying capacity of beach tourism in Topejawa Village, Takalar Regency, South Sulawesi, Indonesia, focusing on recreation and swimming activities. Data were collected from eight strategically located observation stations along the beach area from March to August 2022. Using the Tourism Suitability Index (TSI), we assessed ten parameters to evaluate the beach’s physical condition. Additionally, we conducted an analysis of the Ecological Carrying Capacity (ECC) to determine the maximum number of visitors that the tourist area can sustainably accommodate for recreation and swimming activities. Our findings indicate that Topejawa beach area’s stations I, III, and IV were classified as ‘suitable’ with TSI values ranging from 1.8 to 2.1 across all stations. The ecological carrying capacity analysis revealed that the beach can accommodate up to 1,257 individuals per day for recreation and 15,171 for swimming activities. We recommend the period from March to November for beach tourism due to favorable weather conditions. These results demonstrate the significant potential of Topejawa Village for sustainable ecotourism development, emphasizing the importance of ecological carrying capacity assessments and sustainable tourism practices. As coastal tourism continues to thrive, this study provides valuable insights for the responsible management and growth of Topejawa’s beach recreation tourism industry.

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.

HIGHER EDUCATION CONTRIBUTION IN PROMOTING SUSTAINABLE TOURISM DESTINATION IN THOUSAND ISLANDS, INDONESIA

Sustainable tourism destination is the term that used to identify the promotion of sustainable development in tourism. In practice the activities need support of multi stakeholder include university or higher education. This article aims to explain of higher education contribution promoting sustainable tourism destination in Thousand Island, especially in Pramuka and Panggang Island. Both islands have long collaboration with Binus University in developing tourism destination and community empowering, and in the second period of collaboration the team fostering community to promote sustainable tourism destination by adding zero-waste tourism destination branding and fish processing as additional to culinary tourism. Result of co-creation and collaboration in promoting sustainable tourism destination fosters community in explore new idea and innovation of their natural and social resources as tourism activities, and exploitation of existing tourism activities to a new market and customer. Training and assistance in branding activities for environmentally friendly tourism destination make the community more confidence in developing ideas for economic and tourism activities on the two island being assisted.

The importance of the government’s role in sustainable development in rural areas

<p>This study focuses on developing tourist villages as sustainable tourist destinations. The aim of this research is to determine the role of the government in tourism development which is carried out in a comprehensive and integrated manner by wisely utilizing natural resources, culture and geographical conditions. sustainable development, especially in rural areas, is expected to contribute to increasing welfare, equality and environmental awareness for the community. The research method was carried out using a qualitative approach, using observation, documentation and interview techniques to collect various complete data and information by determining research data sources, collecting and analyzing qualitative data, making conclusions and recommendations. The research results show that the government's role is quite large, although it has not succeeded in achieving targets in implementing various tourism developments in rural areas related to three role indicators, namely: 1) regulator, 2) dynamist, and 3) facilitator.</p>

Unveiling the Critical Factors of Terrestrial Space Tourism Destinations

ABSTRACT Spanning from orbital and suborbital flights to spaceports, space museums, space hotels, and much more, space tourism is poised to redefine the landscape of the travel industry, promising economic growth, and prosperity for destinations across the globe. However, despite its transformative potential, existing literature has dedicated little attention to its exploration. Our research endeavours to shed light on the concept of terrestrial space tourism destinations. We crafted a comprehensive theoretical model that forms the bedrock for a deeper understanding of this unique and specialized niche. We employ a qualitative approach, drawing from an array of sources, including interviews with industry experts and key informants. Findings uncovered several critical factors that need to be considered when establishing a competitive and sustainable terrestrial space tourism destination, namely: safety, residents’ acceptance, infrastructures, and education. Furthermore, we introduce six research gaps that can inspire future investigations in this dynamically evolving field.

Promoting sustainable tourism destinations: support and its role in tourist environmentally responsible behaviour

Promoting sustainable tourism destinations: support and its role in tourist environmentally responsible behaviour

Memorable gastronomic experience in sustainable tourism destinations: evidence from Croatia

The aim of this study is to examine the nature of the relationship (direct and indirect) between perceived quality aspects (PQ), memorable gastronomic experiences (MGE) and tourist behavioral intentions (BI) in two sustainable destinations in Croatia - Istra and Međimurje. A sample of 414 respondents was collected through a questionnaire. To examine the relationships between PQ, MGE and BI, the primary data were then subjected to PLS-SEM analysis. The findings of this study indicate that a stronger direct relationship between MGE and BI was found in Istria compared to Međimurje. Moreover, among tourists who visited Istria, MGE proved to be a stronger moderator between local food (LF) and BI of tourists. By following the research results in both sustainable destinations, DMOs can create sustainable gastronomic routes with special attention to key elements of quality that promote the MGE.

Development Strategy of Halal Tourism Objects in Medan City

This study aims to analyze the development strategy of halal tourism objects in Medan City. This study uses SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) analysis method to evaluate the internal and external factors that affect the development of halal tourism in this city. The analysis results show that Medan City has significant strengths, such as rich cultural potential, nature tourism, accommodation and ease of communication. However, there are weaknesses such as halal services that need to be improved, service quality, and less effective promotion. Significant opportunities were also identified, including the rapidly growing halal tourism market and the potential for increased international cooperation. However, threats such as competition from similar destinations, security issues, economic fluctuations, and related policy changes need to be addressed. The results of this study indicate the need for a targeted and sustainable development strategy to capitalize on the potential of halal tourism in Medan City. Therefore, the Medan City government undertakes a strategy that involves improving service quality, effective promotion, and stronger cooperation with stakeholders. This strategy is expected to develop Medan City as an attractive and sustainable halal tourism destination.

Optimization of the Angso Duo Tourism Market Area Based on the Historic Riverfront of the Batanghari River, Jambi City

Angso Duo Market or also known as the Tanah Select Pesako Betuah location is an area that has a long history in the development of the city of Jambi. Angso Duo Market, which is located on the Batanghari River, is one of the development locations for riverside tourist areas which has great potential for development. Many historical events occurred at this location which brought many memories to the people of Jambi. This area has significant historical value as the historic Riverfront Batanghari river site, which has witnessed the cultural and social development of the surrounding community. The aim of this research is to identify and design an optimization strategy for the Angso Duo Tourism Market Area based on the historical heritage of the Batanghari River Riverfront which produces design aspects of the waterfront tourist area which are the basis for determining the design approach, namely the Collective Memory and Sense approaches. of Place (Meaning of Place). The research methods used in this research are literature study, field survey, interviews with related parties, and data analysis. The research results show that the Angso Duo Tourism Market Area has the potential to become an attractive tourist destination. The history of the Batanghari Riverfront, which has existed for many years, is the main attraction. However, efforts are still needed to optimize the use of this area. Based on the research results, several optimization strategies are recommended, including: Historical Heritage Conservation, Preserving and maintaining historical sites around the Batanghari River Riverfront to maintain the authenticity and historical value of the area. Infrastructure Development, Improving regional infrastructure, including road access, parking areas and other public facilities, to increase visitor comfort. Development of tourist facilities, building tourist facilities and facilities that support visitor activities, such as children's play areas, places to eat and places to rest. Environmental Management, Developing a sustainable environmental management plan to preserve the Batanghari River and its surroundings. By implementing this strategy, it is hoped that the Angso Duo Tourism Market Area can become an attractive and sustainable tourist destination, providing economic and social benefits for the local community, as well as preserving the history and environment of the Batanghari River.

Madeira tourism—always proactive toward sustainability

PurposeThis paper discusses the development of Madeira's tourism and its continuous action on aspects of sustainability.Design/methodology/approachThe paper analyses the evolution of tourism in the region in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and how an investment in sustainability and on the certification of the archipelago as a sustainable tourist destination is a key move for stakeholders, in particular residents, companies and tourists.FindingsTo return to normality, and thus overcome the 2019 difficulties, Madeira continues to develop promotional activities in various international markets and develop sustainable tourism, supported by practices and policies that optimize the use of environmental resources. In so doing, sociocultural identity and authenticity is secured, while providing socioeconomic benefits for all stakeholders.Originality/valueThe approaches and solutions presented are those of the regional Government of Madeira, illustrated by the efforts and decisions that led to the certification of the archipelago as a sustainable tourist destination.

Local communities at the heart of tourism development: the Azores tourism strategy 2030

PurposeThis paper aims to present the Azores tourism strategy and outline how local communities are centered at the heart of tourism development.Design/methodology/approachThis paper analyzes the development of tourism in the Azores Archipelago and how it contributes to value creation and retention, as well as job creation. It explores the role of local communities in the tourism experience, and the strategic options on the 2030 horizon.FindingsTourism has become a main driver for economic growth and social prosperity in the Azores, with sustainability acting as a definitive driver of tourism development. However, to fully leverage the potential of tourism to impact local communities and the regional economy, it is of the utmost importance to stimulate the dispersal of inbound tourism across the nine islands. This will help to spread out value and job creation, help in reducing pressure on fragile resources and at the same time, mitigate seasonality and provide more stable income throughout the year.Originality/valueA new approach to tourism development is proposed, where the success of tourism is to be measured by the quality of the tourist experience and the benefits that tourism adds to the Azores, assigning the local community with a central role in decision-making processes related to tourism. To reinforce the focus on the sustainable development of the territory, anchored on its certification as a sustainable tourist destination, the first archipelago in the world with this distinction, a strong focus on Nature (Land and Sea), is adopted as the main priority. Communication with the end consumer is strongly proposed as a way of stimulating the desire to travel, supported by the positioning proposed in the new tourism strategy (PEMTA, 2030) – Azores: Nine islands, the experience of a lifetime.

Analisis Kelayakan Kampung Namicalung Menjadi Desa Wisata Sarung Tenun Legendaris Majalaya

Woven textiles, a vital aspect of Indonesia's cultural heritage, greatly influence the Nusantara archipelago's identity. Majalaya in West Java, known as the "Dollar City," has been a flourishing center for weaving since 1920, notably contributing to the production of woven sarongs, meeting 47% of national demand. In this textile-rich region, Namicalung Village has earned its place in history as a center for sarong weaving, notably recognized for its "poleng" motif. Namicalung's residents aspire to establish the village as a legendary sarong-weaving tourist destination in Majalaya, complying with Provincial Regulation Number 7 of 2020. In pursuing this development, Namicalung must meet specific standards regarding accessibility, amenities, attractions, and institutionalization. A "tourism village" blends attractions, accommodations, and supporting facilities, respecting local traditions and practices. This study aims to conduct a comprehensive feasibility analysis to provide practical guidance for Namicalung's development as a sarong-weaving tourism destination. The research methodology employs an analytical approach to assess various aspects, including tourism potential, infrastructure, economic impacts, and visitor experiences. The outcomes of this research hold significant value in evaluating the overall feasibility of transforming Namicalung Village into a Sarong Weaving Tourism Destination in Majalaya that can assist the local community and stakeholders in taking relevant steps toward the development of an attractive and sustainable tourism destination.

PARTISIPASI MASYARAKAT DALAM PENGELOLAAN DAN PENGEMBANGAN OBJEK WISATA PULAU TABALINGE KABUPATEN PULAU MOROTAI

This paper attempts to provide an overview of the main findings and conclusions of the research conducted. The primary objective of this study is to provide a systematic, accurate, and impartial description of how the public participates in the oversight and growth of tourism attractions on Tabalinge Island, located in the Morotai Island geographical area. The research methodology employed in this study is qualitative descriptive research, which involves the collection of data through observations, interviews, and documentation. The findings of this study indicated that the general public did not engage directly in the initial planning stage of the management and development of Tabalinge Island as a destination for tourists. Rather, their involvement was observed to be limited to providing feedback and suggestions during public consultations held after the initial planning stage. This lack of direct engagement from the general public may have resulted in disconnect between the tourism attractions offered on Tabalinge Island and the preferences and needs of potential tourists. Additionally, it highlights the importance of incorporating community input and involvement in future management and development plans to ensure a more inclusive and sustainable tourism destination. During the subsequent implementation phases of management and service provision, which followed a top-down approach encompassing both tangible and intangible aspects, in the phase of evaluation and monitoring, there is restricted public participation in preventive measures aimed at mitigating security and order disruptions. This involvement primarily entails the dissemination of information, with the public acting as passive recipients of government updates regarding surveillance efforts. However, opportunities for public feedback are not provided.

The Fallout of Market-Oriented Sustainability Measures: Tourism Destination Sustainability Benchmarking and Ranking

Destination sustainability indices, designed to facilitate benchmarking, ranking, and direct competition, are increasingly employed by destinations to showcase their sustainability achievements, meet stakeholder expectations, and attract visitors. Consequently, these indices play a pivotal role in influencing how destinations strategically prioritize their sustainability initiatives. Despite the burgeoning research on sustainability measures, research on market-centric destination benchmarks and rankings remains limited. This letter aims to underscore the distinction between measures that apply a minimum standard approach, for example certifications, and those that allow for benchmarking/ranking in assessing destination sustainability. It argues that the latter holds significant potential to impact sustainable destination development. Thus, it investigates the question of what happens when destination sustainability becomes a point of competition and demonstrates that even meticulously designed indices can encourage counterproductive behaviors, potentially undermining sustainability progress at destinations. Based on this, the letter advocates for a comprehensive investigation into market-oriented sustainability indices and rankings.

A novel framework for social life cycle assessment to achieve sustainable cultural tourism destinations

Tourism has a significant multiplier effect on other socioeconomic sectors, leading to improved infrastructure and public services. Its environmental impact, however, remains a subject of concern and there has been a growing emphasis on increasing the sustainability of tourism attractions. Despite the global importance of sustainability evaluation, there are just a few widely accepted methodologies for evaluating it. The life cycle concept is utilised to assess environmental, economic and social impacts and one critical life cycle tool is social life cycle assessment (S-LCA). Tourism-associated activities are ideally suited for the elaboration of data related to social sustainability due to tourism-specific service specifications. As a result, the main question is how can S-LCA help to ensure the long-term viability of cultural tourism destinations. This paper investigates the theoretical evolution of both S-LCA and cultural tourism in order to answer this question. A new framework S-LCA for sustainable cultural tourist destinations is developed and examined, as are potential application gaps. The hypothesized S-LCA conceptual framework S-LCA can thus play an effective role in accomplishing the principles and objectives of sustainable tourism destination management by bringing all stakeholders’ interests together.

Analysis of Hapanasan Water Tourism Management Strategies Facing the Post-COVID-19 Pandemic Period Rambah Tengah Hulu Village, Riau Province

The Covid-19 pandemic has had a negative impact on various tourism sectors. In the implementation of tourism destination management by Rokan Hulu Regency, strategic steps such as improving facilities, building new facilities for the convenience of tourists, supervision for compliance with health standards to reduce the spread of Covid-19, are less carried out by the management. This study aims to analyze how the management of water Hapanasan tourism destinations faces the conditions of the Covid-19 pandemic, to identify and analyze the current management of water Hapanasan, and to find out the strategy of sustainable management of water Hapanasan tourism destinations. Population is the entire hot water tourism object Rambah Tengah Hulu Village, Riau Province The sample used in this study is purposive sampling. To achieve this goal, the author uses descriptive qualitative methods, with observation, in-depth interviews with key persons, and literacy as data collection methods. The results of this study show that the management carried out did not run smoothly so that many facilities were abandoned during the pandemic, but when it was loose, managers began to repair damaged facilities and return to maintain them, and there was no sustainable management strategy after the Covid-19 pandemic. The results of this study will have implications for improving the quality of tourism infrastructure, management strategies that can be done in tourist destinations, managing human resource capabilities. All of that can make water Hapanasan a sustainable tourism destination.

Realizing a competitive Doplang tourist village through institutional innovation in local potential development

The Covid-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the tourism sector, including Doplang tourist village, which was recognized as an attractive tourist destination in Semarang Regency. The pandemic situation presented significant challenges that resulted in demotivation among the community in developing the tourism potential of this area. In the context of institutional innovation, this community empowerment aims to address the demotivation of Doplang tourist village's community caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, which disrupted the development of tourism potential. One crucial step in achieving this goal is to implement changes and improvements in the structure and mechanisms of organizations involved in managing the tourism destination in the village. Through institutional innovation, it is expected that more effective collaboration and synergy will be created among all parties involved. These changes aim to enhance active participation from the community in decision-making related to tourism development. Consequently, the community will play a more active role in managing their own tourist destination and collectively identifying the potential of local tourism that can be developed. The outcomes of this program also include efforts to raise awareness within the community about developing local tourism potential and creatively promoting the village through social media. Through effective collaboration among various stakeholders, it is hoped that Doplang tourist village will recover from the impact of the pandemic, increase tourist visits, stimulate the local economy, and strengthen the village's image as a competitive, sustainable, and unique tourism destination.

Spiritual Folklore Tourism

This article highlights the importance of spiritual pilgrims’ pre-travel experiences and belief in the divine spirit to fulfil their spiritual journey. We explore the experiences of travellers who visited the Naga Cave and sought spiritual help to fulfil their desires. We used netnography to collect travellers’ stories to reveal the importance of seeking spiritual help and sharing experiences on Facebook to promote the sacredness of Phu Aue Lue and the Naga Cave. Some travellers cleanse their spirits before the trip using meditation, prayer, adhering to the five Buddhist precepts, and going vegetarian. Physical fitness is also crucial, as the 1,400 metres of the extremely taxing trail in the cave demands four to five hours of hiking. Spiritual tourism offers an opportunity for psychological recovery post-COVID-19, and spiritual destinations with folkloric overtones, such as the Naga Cave, are expected to increase in prominence among spiritual and general tourists due to their inherent healing properties. Additionally, the tourism authority may employ further marketing and promotional initiatives to promote Naga Cave as a sustainable tourist destination. The use of mass media for communication has been of interest in recent years, with studies examining the use of new media by individuals and the significance of Naga in Thai architectural and sculptural ornaments.

Harnessing the power of virtual reality: Enhancing telepresence and inspiring sustainable travel intentions in the tourism industry

This study investigates how virtual reality (VR) can enhance telepresence and stimulate VR use and travel intentions in the sustainable tourism industry. 512 local and international tourists in Vietnam participated in an online survey after experiencing a VR experiment. They interacted with an app presenting a sustainable tourist destination based on nature, with the treatment group using VR sets and the control group viewing it on a 2D screen. Results indicate that VR-based tours facilitate greater telepresence than 2D presentations. VR is not a substitute for actual travel, with higher intentions reported to use VR in the future and to visit the tourist destination in real life due to their greater telepresence and perceived enjoyment from VR. This has implications for nature-based sustainable tourism, with further research needed for other types of tourism, including extreme activities.

A Comparison of the Expected and Performed Roles of the Geotourism Stakeholders at Hummanaya, Sri Lanka

Geotourism is a niche market that sells the geographic uniqueness of places, and Hummanaya is one such destination. Geotourism stakeholders are agents who shape, positively or negatively, the geographical characteristics of a place. They have three key roles to play to sustain and even enhance the geotourism allure of a destination and the well-being of its residents. Those roles are programming, facilitating, and gatekeeping. The Special Area Management Plan (SAMP) has suggested several strategies and management actions for the stakeholders to implement in Hummanaya, one of the geotourism destinations in Southern Sri Lanka, to sustainably develop the area while mitigating the socio-cultural, economic, and environmental issues in the area. The primary objectives of the research were to identify the geotourism stakeholders of the Hummanaya destination and to examine the extent to which the stakeholders have fulfilled the responsibilities suggested by the SAMP and other literature over the past two decades. Key informant interviews and observation methods were conducted to collect data and information. Seventy-seven key informants were involved in key informant interviews. State-centric stakeholders were identified as having played programming and facilitating roles to some extent but neglected the gatekeeping role. The local community is not fully committed to sustainably programming the ecotourism activities and gatekeeping activities in the destination and facilitating them for tourists, even though some facilities are provided. Also, they have not become the custodians of the destination. Thus, to make Hummanaya a sustainable tourism destination, this study recommends that each stakeholder should pay enough attention to fulfil all three roles.