The Relationship Between Host Community And Tourism Development: Tripoli-Lebanon As A Case Study
Abstract
This study examines the dynamic relationship between tourism development and the host community, highlighting the dual potential of tourism to generate socio-economic opportunities while posing cultural and social challenges. Emphasizing the principles of sustainable tourism, the research underscores the importance of community participation, acceptance, and equitable benefit-sharing in ensuring tourism initiatives are both effective and inclusive. Tripoli, Lebanon’s second-largest city, serves as the focal point of this inquiry due to its underutilized yet abundant cultural and historical assets, including urban heritage from various historical eras, traditional markets, and natural coastal features. Despite these advantages, the city remains economically marginalized, with high unemployment and a socially conservative population, conditions that make it a critical case for examining community-centered tourism strategies. Drawing on data from a structured survey of 1,000 residents across Tripoli’s diverse districts, the study assesses local perceptions, awareness levels, and preferences regarding different forms of tourism development. The findings reveal strong support for culturally aligned tourism types, such as family, eco-, and cultural tourism, while highlighting localized resistance to nightlife-oriented models. By integrating quantitative data with contextual analysis, the study offers actionable insights for policymakers and development planners aiming to harness tourism as a catalyst for sustainable urban revitalization that respects the socio-cultural fabric of the host community.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Racha Sultan, Imane Baba
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