Tourism is a dynamic and pervasive industry that provides a range of benefits and value to organisations, communities and regions that participate in the industry. Tourism can provide value for a destination in a number of ways:
Economic – increased and diversified economic activity; flow-on economic benefits through a community; stimulus for economic development and investment;
Social / Cultural – enhanced quality of life, community development, employment and income, conservation of cultural heritage, increased amenity, community pride;
Environmental – awareness of environmental significance, conservation of natural and built environments, implementation of sustainable practices.
Many destinations have previously focused only on the economic value of tourism. However integrating both economic and non-economic impacts provides a more holistic view of tourism and better informs destination management decisions. Understanding and communicating the value of tourism within a community is important in order to: