The role of cluster analysis in promoting sustainable development in low-density destinations
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.29352/mill0219e.40917Keywords:
sustainable tourism development; community involvement/attachment; local government management of tourism; perceived risk; tourism impacts; economic dependenceAbstract
Introduction: Research on residents' perceptions of sustainable tourism development (STD) has focused mainly on high-density areas, with little attention to emerging destinations. This study analyzes residents' perspectives in Lamego, a historic town in northern Portugal within the Douro World Heritage area.
Objective: Using cluster analysis, this study aims to segment residents based on perceptions of community involvement, local government management of tourism (LGMT), tourism impacts, community attachment, economic dependence, perceived risk (COVID-19), and support for STD, and to analyze differences in sociodemographic variables across these groups.
Methods: This study uses a quantitative approach with a questionnaire for Lamego residents. We applied cluster analysis to categorize 250 residents into distinct groups based on their views on support for STD and related variables.
Results: Three resident clusters were identified: Moderately Involved, Highly Involved, and Disconnected. These groups show significant differences in their engagement with STD initiatives and perceptions of local governance effectiveness.
Conclusion: Findings emphasize the necessity of integrating residents' perceptions into STD planning and policy. This study provides insights for tourism management in emerging, low-density destinations, contributing to more effective and inclusive development strategies.
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