The Impact Of The Tourism Industry In Belize

The tourism industry in Belize is considered a key contributor to the country’s economy. The country’s success in this industry is heavily dependent on the sustainability practices which relates to the natural and cultural factors inclusive of the cayes, marine life, wildlife reserves, and heritage sites. According to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), tourism involves the activities of persons or groups travelling for periods of time outside their usual environment for leisure, business and other personal purposes (2014). Since the tourism industry is a dynamic sector with various groups partaking in recreational activities, the managers of these protected areas must ensure that in the provision of unique experiences to the visitors, the environmental, socio-cultural and economic impacts of these activities are considered.

In the marketing of Belize as a tourist destination, much weight is placed on the country’s natural and cultural attractions in an effort to cater and provide exceptional quality in the services and products offered. With these natural and cultural attractions offered, Belize is considered an ecotourism destination since heavy focus is placed on the unique array of flora and fauna. Ecotourism involves activities which occur in natural environments. Ecotourism is the focus of many tourism related activities since the development of conservation, responsible tourism and sustainability (International Ecotourism Society, 2014). Responsible tourism