Tourism Planning, Development, and Social Considerations - Tourism: Principles, Practices, Philosophies - page 366

Example of ``planning for
private tourism development adjacent to a
state park.'' Note integration of infrastructure
and recreational facilities.
Source:Recreational Land Development, Wisconsin
Department of Natural Resources, Division of
Resource Development, Bureau of Recreation.

Figure 16.3

each 400 lineal feet of beach. Typically, about 50 percent of those vacationers in a resort or beach area
will actually be on the beach, and of this group, 25 percent will be in the water and 75 percent will be
on the beach.
Another consideration is the topography. In rolling or hilly country, more accommodations can be
placed close together without a feeling of interference with one another than in a flat area. Also, the
type of vegetative cover affects the density of the accommodations. A heavy, thick cover tends to
obscure the view, and more accommodations can be successfully placed in a limited area than if the
vegetation is sparse or absent entirely (see Figure 16.4).
Clustering accommodations in reasonably close proximity, surrounded by extensive natural areas,
is recognized as superior planning, as opposed to spreading out accommodations over a wide area. The
beauty of the natural environment can be more fully appreciated in such an arrangement.
Before any investment in hotels and similar lodging facilities is made, the traveling and vacation
habits of the prospective guests should be studied to tailor the facilities to their requirements and
desires. This is extremely important and conforms to the concept in which major

decisions on investment begin with an understanding of the desires of the potential customers.
Another factor is the harmony required between the various elements of the travel plan, the local
environment, and infrastructure.
Finally, when resort development is to be limited (and it usually is), it is best to select the most
desirable location and create a hotel of real distinction at this site. Then, later, if proper planning and
promotion have been accomplished, expansion to other nearby sites can be achieved. Distinctive
design of other hotel sites will encourage the visitor to enjoy the variety, architectural appeals, and
other satisfactions inherent in each resort hotel.

'' market orientation ''