The development of a strategic tourism plan for a destination is an articulation of the strategic priorities and direction that have been identified by stakeholders for the planning, development, management and marketing of a region. Strategic Plans for destinations have been called Destination Management Plans, Tourism Action Plans or Sustainable Tourism Plans in different regions across the world. A strategic plan for destination management is essential for the long-term success and sustainability of a destination. As highlighted in the case of the Leeds region in the United Kingdom, while having a strategic plan for tourism will not solve all of a destination’s challenges, not having a strategic direction will certainly cause more issues in the future.
Developing a successful strategic plan for tourism requires taking a comprehensive destination management approach. A Destination Management Planning Model developed by Tourism Queensland provides a process for developing a strategic plan for a destination.
Destination Management Tip
Strategic destination planning is a cyclical process that requires ongoing monitoring and review and the flexibility to adapt to changing conditions.