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The Professionalization of Community-Based Tourism as a Strategic Driver of Sustainable Development in Emerging Destinations

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  • Nancy Teston Franco

    (Instituto de Ciencias Económico Administrativas. Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo, México.)

  • Aide Maricel Carrizal Alonso

    (Instituto de Ciencias Económico Administrativas. Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo, México.)

  • Sonia Gayosso Mexia

    (Instituto de Ciencias Económico Administrativas. Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo, México.)

Abstract

This article explores the professionalization of community-based tourism (CBT) as a strategic pathway to achieving sustainable development in tourism destinations. As global tourism dynamics evolve, community involvement has become a critical factor in fostering inclusive growth, cultural preservation, and environmental sustainability. However, the success and resilience of CBT depend heavily on the professional capacities of local stakeholders, including tour guides, entrepreneurs, and community leaders. The primary objective of this study is to analyze how professionalization processes influence the effectiveness and sustainability of CBT initiatives. The research was conducted in three sequential phases. First, a systematic literature review was carried out to identify key competencies and best practices in CBT professionalization. Second, a semi-structured interview guide was developed and applied to a group of experts in tourism development and community-based tourism. Finally, the data collected were analyzed using grounded theory methodology, allowing for the emergence of categories and relationships that underpin the findings.

Suggested Citation

  • Nancy Teston Franco & Aide Maricel Carrizal Alonso & Sonia Gayosso Mexia, 2025. "The Professionalization of Community-Based Tourism as a Strategic Driver of Sustainable Development in Emerging Destinations," International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), vol. 9(6), pages 1474-1479, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:bcp:journl:v:9:y:2025:issue-6:p:1474-1479
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Colin Hunter, 2002. "Sustainable Tourism and the Touristic Ecological Footprint," Environment, Development and Sustainability: A Multidisciplinary Approach to the Theory and Practice of Sustainable Development, Springer, vol. 4(1), pages 7-20, March.
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