Tourism Destination Definition

This chapter defines the theories that inspired this thesis. In accordance with the main field of interest of the study, the Literature Review provides an in-depth analysis of the topics: tourism destinations, urban tourism, business and event tourism and trade fairs.

1.1 Tourism Destination

This section briefly describes the main terms related to the tourism destination of a country by defining the term Tourism Destination and explaining its different types. The section then moves on addressing the different elements associated with the term.

1.1.1 Definitions and Types

In the tourism literature the concept of destination has not one unique and widely accepted definition. In fact, the term “tourism destination” is used differently by diverse

The degree, to which each geographical unit is considered a tourism destination, depends on three main quality factors: attractions, amenities and accessibility (Burkart & Medlik, 1974). In addition, according to Jensen, Hansen and Metz (1993) a tourist destination contains a specific landscape, cultural characteristics and offers visitors an outstanding experience. In accordance with this notion, Mill and Morrison (1992) consider the tourism destination as a mix of interdependent elements (i.e. attractions, facilities, infrastructure, transportation and hospitality) which can provide tourists with a satisfying vacation experience. The importance of attractions, such as cultural activities, historical heritage and events, is also outlined by Cooper et al. (1993) who define destinations as the reason why tourism exists and their attractions as the source of tourist visits. This is reiterated by Franke (2001) adding that tourism destinations are dynamic as they are characterized by the economic and human interaction of tourists, resources, firms and elements. The content of each

coastal beaches, rivers, natural parks) or constructed (e.g. theme parks, villages, cities). Based on their geographical features destinations are defined as seaside, rural or urban destinations (Holloway, 2009). As the name already reveals seaside destinations are mostly places related to coasts and beaches (Holloway, 2009), while rural destinations are any natural locations where visitors can connect with the nature and rural heritage and interact with the local (Sharpley & Sharpley, 1997). Cities, representing the most widely recognized type of urban destinations (Holloway, 2009) have always been important meeting point for politicians and tradesmen since the founding of the first towns in the early Antiquity until today (Buhalis, 2000). Especially exhibitions and trade fairs since the late medieval Europe, also often referred to as the era of merchant capitalism, have become an important branch of business for many cities and towns (Holloway, 2009). Besides geographical distinctions, tourism destinations can be categorized based on their tourism offer which attracts different target markets. According to the tourism offer, destinations can be classified as cultural, historical, business, wellness destinations, among others (Buhalis,