Community Models of Local Tourism Development

The overall aim of this paper is to contribute to the reflection on the sustainable and innovative development paths of local communities. In addition, the paper offers insights into the relationship that exists between these innovative paths and the emergence of alternative forms of tourism established to contrast organized and standardized mass tourism, namely ‘niche tourism’ conceived and implemented mainly at a local level. Specifically, the research discussed in this paper aims at reflecting on the actors and strategies (and/or empowerment processes) required for the promotion of sustainable tourism practices. For the purposes of the field research, the case study methodology in a comparative perspective was chosen. In particular, four experiences were identified, two in Argentina, one of which in the province of Buenos Aires and the other in the province of Santa Fe, and two Italian case study experiences in small communities in Southern Italy. All case studies have specific characteristics, i.e., communities located in inland areas, with tourism experiences, and with significant projects in terms of values, motivations, and the capacity to involve both local actors as well as those outside the territorial context. The findings show that promoting sustainable tourism development of inland communities requires consideration of several factors, including the stakeholders involved and the strategies to be adopted to promote sustainable tourism practices in order to increase the well-being and quality of life of local communities. The case studies presented highlight how the empowerment of local actors and the enhancement of territorial capital are closely linked. Indeed, processes involving the local community can have a significant impact on the economic and social growth of a territory, through the enhancement of territorial peculiarities, which are at the basis of the construction of tourist and experiential products.