The role of destination carrying capacity within the framework of flow theory
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.13331419Keywords:
Destination carrying capacity, Flow theory, Sustainable tourismAbstract
This study addresses the critical relationship between tourist destination carrying capacity and flow theory. In this way, a framework has been drawn by focusing on its complex impact on sustainable destination management. Tourism carrying capacity, defined as the maximum number of tourists that a destination can accommodate without compromising environmental integrity, the well-being of local people or visitor satisfaction, is of central importance in ensuring long-term sustainability. At the same time, flow theory, which defines the state of commitment and satisfaction experienced by individuals, provides an important framework for improving the quality of tourist experiences. This article argues that balancing the carrying capacity of a destination with the principles of flow theory is vital for both environmental sustainability and high-quality visitor experiences. Although issues related to carrying capacity are frequently studied, providing a perspective within the framework of flow theory can provide a better understanding of the existing realities of destination management mechanisms. In this context, the originality of this study is that the literature is examined from a theoretical perspective and the problems related to carrying capacity management are explained from different perspectives. As a result of the theoretical findings, managerial and theoretical suggestions are presented.
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Author Biographies
Yusuf Karakuş, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan University
He completed his undergraduate education at Erciyes University, Department of Tourism Management and Hotel Management. He prepared his Ph.D thesis titled "New product development model for touristic regions: An application on Nevsehir province" at Nevsehir Hacı Bektaş Veli University in 2017 and earned the title of Doctor. He started to work as Assis. Prof. at Recep Tayyip Erdoğan University Ardeşen Vocational High School in 2021 and as of 2023, he has been working as Assoc. Prof. at Ardeşen Tourism Faculty.
His research interest areas: Tourism product, Destination marketing and management, Decision making in tourism research.
Eren Erkılıç, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan University
Associate Professor Doctor. He completed his doctorate in Tourism Management at Atatürk University and his master's degree at Afyon Kocatepe University. In 2012, he started his academic life as a lecturer at Ardeşen Vocational School at Recep Tayyip Erdoğan University. As of 2023, he has been working as an Associate Professor at Recep Tayyip Erdoğan University Ardeşen Tourism Faculty.
His research interests are; human resources management in tourism enterprises, organizational behavior, social media, alternative tourism and local people. She is a referee in national and international journals.
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