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From theory to practice of ecotourism: major obstacles that stand in the way and best practices that lead to success

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  • Dimitriou Christina K.

    (State University of New York (SUNY) at Plattsburgh, Hotel, Restaurant and Tourism Management Programme, 101 Broad Street - Sibley 403 H, Plattsburgh, NY 12901United States of America, Tel: 001-518-564-3182 Fax: 001-518-564-3263)

Abstract

Ecotourism has been described as the ideal kind of tourism, as it aims to conserve the natural, cultural and other tourist resources for continuous use for future generations whilst still bringing benefits to the present societies. Theoretically, it sounds so promising and attractive, but when it comes to its actual implementation, significant constraints bar the way to success. Various countries that attempted to foster sustainable development in their communities, either partially achieved their goals or their implementation totally lapsed. These fruitless efforts clearly reflect the huge gap that still exists between the theory and practice of ecotourism. The purpose of this paper is to fill this gap that seems to have been growing in recent years by explaining what has been done wrong and what specific policies and procedures could help bring a positive change. This paper aims to move from theory to practice and concentrate on how the implementation of ecotourism can be achieved properly and lead to success. The key factors responsible for failure are addressed, so they can be avoided and mistakes of the past will not be repeated. It also serves as a guide to more effective strategies of promoting ecotourism successfully around the world.

Suggested Citation

  • Dimitriou Christina K., 2017. "From theory to practice of ecotourism: major obstacles that stand in the way and best practices that lead to success," European Journal of Tourism, Hospitality and Recreation, Sciendo, vol. 8(1), pages 26-37, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:vrs:ejothr:v:8:y:2017:i:1:p:26-37:n:4
    DOI: 10.1515/ejthr-2017-0004
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Demonja Damir & Gredičak Tatjana, 2014. "Exploring the 'Cultural Tourism-Sustainable Development' Nexus: the Case of Croatia," Scientific Annals of Economics and Business, Sciendo, vol. 61(2), pages 161-179, December.
    2. Elena SANDU, 2014. "Comparative Study On The Management Of Sustainable Touristic Development In Brasov And Brussels Counties," Revista de turism - studii si cercetari in turism / Journal of tourism - studies and research in tourism, "Stefan cel Mare" University of Suceava, Romania, Faculty of Economics and Public Administration - Economy, Business Administration and Tourism Department., vol. 18(18), pages 69-76, December.
    3. Georgi Georgiev, 2010. "Rural And Ecotourism Development In Scope Of Bulgarian Tourism," Analele Stiintifice ale Universitatii "Alexandru Ioan Cuza" din Iasi - Stiinte Economice (1954-2015), Alexandru Ioan Cuza University, Faculty of Economics and Business Administration, vol. 57, pages 325-340, november.
    4. Gheorghe CHEIA, 2013. "Ecotourism: Definition And Concepts," Revista de turism - studii si cercetari in turism / Journal of tourism - studies and research in tourism, "Stefan cel Mare" University of Suceava, Romania, Faculty of Economics and Public Administration - Economy, Business Administration and Tourism Department., vol. 15(15), pages 56-60, June.
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