Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Barriers to Ecotourism
Development
In addition to direct competition with the oil industry, natural-
resource development, and rapid colonization, ecotourism in Ecuador
faces other challenges. Much of this has to do with marketing and
management of the resources. As with other tropical “paradise” desti-
nations, many foreign visitors explore the country via international
tour operators. Their stay is often brief and targeted to specific popu-
lar destinations. In many cases this in-and-out form of travel injects
little into the local economy. Community-based, family-run opera-
tions are often ignored. Ecuador has incredible opportunities for na-
ture-based travel not offered by foreign tour operators. Local groups
must work together to create a diversified product, target clients, and
utilize pre-existing networks, such as travel agents, tour operators,
and hotels throughout the country. These issues are discussed in
much more detail on the www.planeta.com, in an article entitled
Tourism and the Future of the Maya Biosphere Reserve
, by Sharon
Flynn and Juan Carlos Bonilla. It deals with current issues in Guate-
mala.
Time for Change -
Bridging the Gaps
As tourism continues to play an expanding role in the Ecuadorian
economy, so too must responsibility within the industry. Trends are
heading in this direction, but a much more integrated approach is
necessary. Concentrated efforts from all key players are required, in-
cluding those of international NGOs, government policymakers, tour
outfitters, local communities, and, ultimately,
you
, the educated trav-
eler.
At one end of the spectrum, NGOs will continue to work with local
communities, promoting nature-based tourismand alternative forms
of sustainable development. The tour operator and the traveler, at
the receiving end, must pressure the government and the public rela-
tions departments of businesses for increased protection of these pre-
cious natural resources. It is your dollar, your voice, and your
responsible actions that can create the momentum necessary for
change.
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