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Abstract
This study examined regional and local tourism stakeholder perceptions of a sustainable tourism development strategy (STDS) in Protected Area Network (PAN) Park locations. An STDS overview from a cross‐cultural comparative analysis of a verified park (Sweden) versus a candidate site (Romania) is given. In‐depth interviews addressed stakeholder cooperation in sustainable tourism planning, perception of tourism in the region, development proposals, and their involvement in sustainable tourism planning. Findings were organized under three interlinkages of a sustainability framework: institutional referring to contribution to sustainable development; care involving management and product innovations; and democracy‐justice involving community rejuvenation via opportunities for small‐scale businesses having a voice in decision making. Regional authorities (in both countries) have other obligations than sustainable tourism development to fulfill while lack of infrastructure and access to parks is a barrier to overcome. Support from local and regional authorities is limited with no STDS apparent. Locally, stakeholders are skeptical with little belief in the benefits of a small‐scale tourism business. Unemployment, old mentality, and lack of experienced professionals are problems in Romania compared to Sweden implying differences in democracy and care. STDS enhances images of sustainability while its role is to develop strategies for sustainable tourism in PAN Park regions.
Acknowledgements
This study was funded by PAN Parks Foundation c/o WWF.
Notes
1. A verified PAN Park has met the first three principles and criteria (certification standards) and a candidate park has signed a letter of intent with PAN Parks to work towards principle compliance within a certain time period.