Destination Development and
Institutionalization Strategies
In the OIC Member Countries
10
1. Features of Potential Tourism Destinations
1.1. The Potential of Tourism Destinations
Definition and Types of Tourism Destinations
Destinations are defined as “amalgams of tourism products, offering an integrated experience to
consumers”. Destinations were viewed traditionally as “well-defined geographical areas”, however, they
are becoming increasingly perceived as a “perceptual concept”. While some tourists on a cruise ship may
consider the ship itself as their destination, others may consider the ports of the visited countries as their
destination. Some destinations, such as the Alps, are not part of a single country but a natural resource in
four countries/geographical areas. Skiers may consider the Alps as a single destination, even though it
would have been traditionally defined as four different destinations. In this study, the focus will be on the
traditional definition of destinations as a “defined geographical region which is understood by its visitors
as a unique entity, with a political and legislative framework for tourism marketing and planning” since
this definition is more relevant to planning and marketing activities of destination management
organizations (DMOs). 5
Figure 1: Types of Destinations 6
Source: Buhalis (2000)
As destinations evaluate their tourism credentials, a critical first step is determining how to characterize
the destination. The sixmain types of destinations are presented in the diagramabove.7 Urban destinations
have been at the center of tourism as it started; people travelled to visit cities for a variety of reasons
whether for leisure, education, health, business, religion or sports. Seaside, rural, and alpine destinations
are mainly visited for leisure purposes and enjoyment of the natural environment and activities particular
to these types of destinations. Seaside destinations were essentially visited for leisure purposes to enjoy
nice climate and engage in sea sports and beach activities, however, seaside mature destinations are facing
competition from newer third world less developed and more exotic destinations which can also offer sea
sports and beach activities besides their unique experience. Alpine destinations have been also attracting
leisure travelers who are interested in winter sports as well as those interested in nature and other type
of sports activities from mountain climbing to cycling. Rural destinations are witnessing increasing levels
of interest from tourists who are interested in going back to nature; these destinations attract those
seeking leisure as well as those interested in learning about agriculture. Authentic destinations, which are
usually in third world countries and can be also perceived as emerging destinations, offer authentic
experiences to tourists interested in culture and interaction with local communities in a natural unspoiled
setting. Unique or exotic destinations, which are usually promoted as offering a “once in a lifetime
5 Buhalis, Dimitrios. (2000). Marketing the competitive destination of the future. Tourism Management 21: 97-116.
6 Ibid
7 Ibid
Types
Resources
Tourism Impact
Rural
Alpine
Unique-Exotic
Urban
Seaside
Authentic ThirdWorld
Lifecycle
Destination Types