Geography Reference
In-Depth Information
fertile area for theoretically informed and methodologically sound research. Many cities
are beginning to recognise the importance of monitoring visitor perceptions and
satisfaction (e.g. Brocx 1994) and the activity patterns and behaviour of tourists (Survey
Research Associates 1991). While such studies may have provided rich pickings for
market research companies, all too often the surveys have been superficial, naive and
devoid of any real understanding of urban tourism. For the public and private sector
planners and managers with an interest, involvement or stake in urban tourism, the main
concern continues to be the potential for harnessing the all-year-round appeal of urban
tourism activity, despite the often short-stay nature of such visitors. Ensuring that such
stays are part of a high-quality experience, where visitor expectations are realistically met
through well-researched, targeted and
Table 5.8: Applications of visitor management
techniques
Visitor
management
technique
Application
Regulating access -
by area
• All visitors are prohibited from visiting highly sensitive sites.
• Different types and levels of use are regulated through zoning.
• Access is regulated to pedestrians only.
Regulating access -
by transport
• Access is regulated to pedestrians or by bicycle.
• Public transport is the only allowable form of transport.
• Centennial Park, Sydney, Australia has several 'car-free days' each year in
which alternative ways to enter and move about the park must be found.
• Regulations on total visitation per year, day or at any moment may be
generated for a specific site.
Regulating
visitation -
numbers and group
size
• Group size restrictions have been implemented in some European cathedrals.
Regulating
visitation - type of
visitor
• Some sites and attractions have a limit on visitation and the type of visitor.
• Some urban attractions target older high and middle income groups and
actively discourage other segments using strict controls on all accommodation
and services, keeping prices high and scrutinising all marketing to maintain
consistency.
Regulating
behaviour
• Zoning in some cities and towns allocates different types of use to specified
areas.
• Restrictions on length of stay may be imposed.
• Tour operators may be required to operate under a detailed set of guidelines
of conduct for visitors.
• Visitors must visit with a guide.
Regulating
equipment
• Vehicular access may be restricted.
• Loudspeakers may be restricted because of noise disturbance.
Implementing entry
or user fees
• Most heritage managers responsible for highly visited heritage sites now
charge fees to access the site or use facilities at the site; influencing some
visitors to choose whether to visit or find an alternative destination.
• Some heritage sites offer days during low season when residents are offered
free entry.
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