LOCAL COMMUNITY PERCEPTION ABOUT TOURISM IMPACT AND COMMUNITY SUPPORT FOR FUTURE TOURISM DEVELOPMENT: A STUDY ON SYLHET, BANGLADESH

Abstract

Tourism is a well-established industry and is known as an income-generating sector and it influences the social aspects for developed as well as countries those are developing. The aim of this paper is to assess the local community perception about tourism’s impact and their support for future tourism development. To conduct this study, a conceptual framework was developed. Additionally, data were collected from 330 respondents, of which the valid response rate is 78.57%. The projected relationships were evaluated by using Partial Least Squares- Structural Equation Modeling technique (PLS-SEM). The findings show a positive relationship among social, economic, and environmental factors and it also influences the quality of life of the local community. This study also specifies the local community’s positive perception towards the development of future’s tourism. This study will make a significant theoretical and practical contribution to the development of community-based tourism in Bangladesh.

Keywords

• local community
• community-based tourism
• economic impact
• quality of life
• sustainable tourism
• tourism development