Set of cultural goods or services available for consumption.
Published in Chapter:
Moving Towards Sustainable Cultural Tourism Experiences: A Participatory Journey – The Stakeholders Perspective
Vânia Mendonça (University of the Algarve, Portugal), Ana Isabel Renda (CiTUR, University of the Algarve, Portugal), and Nelson M. Silva de Matos (CinTurs, University of the Algarve, Portugal & CiTUR, Portugal)
Copyright: © 2022
|Pages: 21
DOI: 10.4018/978-1-7998-9217-5.ch009
Abstract
This research analyses the stakeholders' perception of the development of sustainable cultural tourism experiences. A case study is presented; the chosen place is a council in the Algarve, South Portugal, a mature destination, where the sun and beach are the main attraction. A qualitative approach was used through interviews with key stakeholders, directly and indirectly involved in tourism. The multidimensional analysis shows the relevant findings on how the stakeholders perceive their cultural resources and offer. The concepts of cultural identity, authenticity, cultural preservation, community well-being, pride, and community empowerment emerged, especially through their intangible cultural heritage. It was observed that stakeholders consider local people as their most important cultural resource. Thus, they are also the source of unique, meaningful, and memorable cultural and sustainable experiences.