Kerala’s Responsible Tourism Model: Perspectives Of Stakeholders

Abstract

The aim of governments around the globe to accelerate economic growth through market-oriented policies has resulted merely in increasing GDP while deterring certain groups from becoming a part of their development agenda. Travel for leisure purposes has evolved from an experience reserved for very few people into something enjoyed by many. Historically, the ability to travel was reserved for royalty and the upper classes. From ancient Roman times through to the 17th century, young men of high standing were encouraged to travel through Europe on a “grand tour”. Through the Middle Ages, many societies encouraged the practice of religious pilgrimage, as reflected in Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales and other literature. The word hospitality predates the use of the word tourism, and first appeared in the 14th century. While sustainable tourism and responsible consumption are widely endorsed, their implementation is complex and sometimes oversimplified. Responsible tourism, a holistic approach to travel, seeks to minimize the adverse social, economic, and environmental impacts of tourism while maximizing its benefits. It involves fostering positive relationships between tourists, host communities, and the environment, ensuring that tourism is sustainable and beneficial for all stakeholders. The Government of Kerala also decided to launch Responsible Tourism initiatives in the state on a pilot basis in May 2007 in four destinations that are known for their tourism attractions. The destinations selected were Kovalam (beach), Kumarakom (back water) Thekkady (forest) and Wayanad (hill). Destination Level Responsible Tourism Committees were formed in each of the destinations and also Working Groups on Economic, Social and Environmental fronts to address issues at the destinations. The aim of this research paper is identifying the perception of stakeholders in Responsible Tourism destinations in Kerala. From the study, we can understand how the different stakeholders perceive the idea of responsible tourism in their respective local community.