Toward a New Tourism Policy in the French West Indies: The End of Mass Tourism Resorts and a New Policy for Sustainable Tourism and Ecotourism
Abstract
In this study, we propose to analyze the limits of mass tourism in the French Antilles, specifically the decline of tourism, economic limits, and ecological degradation). The recognition of these limits is overdue, and signals a need to define another model for tourism development.The popular coastal sector in the south of Martinique has been subject new regulations to protect marine resources. These regulations require the development of new practices and a greater level of awareness for tourists, for example, around coral reefs and mangroves. Ecotourism programs aim to demonstrate to visitors the forests rich natural resources and biodiversity in general. It also features the inclusion of small rural businesses that benefit from additional sources of revenue as a result of ecotourism.The situation in the French Antilles is complex: Urbanization is fraught with serious consequences for the coastline. Tourism products currently being marketed on the island are not competitive (particularly against the political dynamics of the neighbouring island of Dominica). Ecotourism and sustainable tourism are just beginning to develop in such destinations, where tourism has been declining in the last ten years. The situation of the French Antilles is paradoxical in a region that generally has a very favourable tourism. Assessing these limits through the scope of ecotourism helps to highlight the causes of these difficulties and to adapting to new tourism practices.
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