Canals, Rivers and Lakes as Experiencescapes : Destination Development Based on Strategic Use of Inland Water

• Earlier studies show that there is an increasing interest in exploration and (re)development of waterways sites with surrounding areas used for leisure, recreation and tourism. The aim of this study is to explore selected Nordic destinations with focus on the strategic use of inland water areas as experiencescapes to promote destination development. Competition among destinations has escalated, hence also the need for well- coordinated tourism offerings. As shown in many studies various stakeholders from private, public and voluntary sectors often interact at destinations. Earlier tourism studies show that coordination of networks is crucial since successful destinations are based on interrelated stakeholders that understand the concept of the destination and are committed to cooperate in offering a holistic experience to visitors. The data collection includes a combination of different methods: observations, interviews with destination stakeholders, and collection of documents related to the selected destinations and regions. Findings show a varied mix of elements and dimensions related to physical, social and sensory settings in the studied experiencescapes. Thevariety in applied approaches for co-ordination of offerings, collaboration and management of destination stakeholders in inland water areas is discussed.

Subject headings

SAMHÄLLSVETENSKAP  -- Ekonomi och näringsliv -- Företagsekonomi (hsv//swe)

SOCIAL SCIENCES  -- Economics and Business -- Business Administration (hsv//eng)

Keyword

Tourism

destination development

canals

rivers

lakes

stakeholders

experiencescape

storytelling

Business administration

Företagsekonomi

Publication and Content Type

ref (subject category)

art (subject category)