The Role of Tourism Entrepreneurship in Regional Development: Case of Akçakoca
Abstract
The aim of this research is to determine the roles of tourism entrepreneurs operating in areas that can be evaluated within the context of rural tourism in the district of Akçakoca, which is on the way of becoming Cittaslow, and to assess whether it contributes to regional development. Sub objectives of the study; addressing the main problems of tourism entrepreneurs, identifying the elements threatening tourism entrepreneurship and to offer suggestions for the development of tourism entrepreneurs in Akçakoca district and increasing their number. The data in the study was obtained by interviewing 18 tourism entrepreneurs using a semi-structured interview technique. As a result of the research, it has been determined that tourism entrepreneurs play an active role both in regional development and in the development of tourism in the region. Thanks to the businesses they have established, tourism entrepreneurs contribute to the increase in income in the region, the creation of new employment opportunities and an increase in visitor satisfaction. Contrary to these positive results, it has been concluded that local governments are not sufficient within the scope of promoting and developing tourism entrepreneurship. In this context, in terms of the importance of investments made in the tourism sector in regions with tourism potential for the region; Identifying the entrepreneurs operating in the tourism sector and determining their contribution to regional development makes this study important.
Keywords
Regional Development , Tourism , Entrepreneurship , Tourism Entrepreneurship
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