Product Development

Development of Competitive Sustainable Tourism Products For Destination Durmitor

A Manual for, Small Businesses, Cooperatives, NGOs and Tourism Organizations

Donald E. Hawkins and Kristin Lamoureux International Institute of Tourism Studies School of Business The George Washington University Washington, D.C. U.S.A. Jnue, 2006

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Purpose of this Manual

Tourism is rapidly becoming one of the largest industries in the world. Revenue generated through tourism activities already represents large portions of the global economy. Trends indicate that this phenomenon will continue to grow. At the same time, destinations around the globe are beginning to recognize the benefits tourism can bring to a region. As transportation and telecommunications expand horizons, places that could never before be considered tourism destinations are reaping the benefits of tourism revenue. This is not to say that tourism does not have its disadvantages. Mass tourism has often proved fatal to a tourism destination. Abuse of natural resources, pollution, social tension and economic instability are just some of the negative effects tourism can have. Of course, not all tourism has to be this way. Tourism has reached a new generation. Alternative tourism, such as agrotourism, ecotourism, or cultural heritage, educational and event forms of tourism, are just some of the options a destination may incorporate into a feasible tourism plan. These tourism products offer a new experience to the traveler while providing a sustainable economic base and protecting the natural and cultural resources. Trends indicate that alternative tourism is becoming more and more popular. Tourists are looking for something more out of a vacation. They want an experience of a lifetime. However, for tourism to be sustainable, it must be carefully planned and continually reevaluated. With the right amount of preparation, almost any region can become a tourism destination. This manual has been prepared to assist...