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Alternative Forms of Tourism: A Comparative Study of Website Effectiveness in Promoting UNESCO Global Geoparks and International Dark Sky Parks

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  • Michael Xanthakis

    (Department of Digital Media and Communication, NeMeCU LAB, Ionian University, 28100 Argostoli, Greece)

  • Androniki Simatou

    (Department of Geography, Harokopio University of Athens, 17676 Athens, Greece)

  • Nikos Antonopoulos

    (Department of Digital Media and Communication, NeMeCU LAB, Ionian University, 28100 Argostoli, Greece)

  • Andreas Kanavos

    (Department of Informatics, Ionian University, 49100 Corfu, Greece)

  • Naoum Mylonas

    (Department of Tourism, Ionian University, 49132 Corfu, Greece)

Abstract

In the digital age, effective website promotion plays a pivotal role in attracting visitors to alternative forms of tourism. This study examines the websites of 177 UNESCO Global Geoparks and 190 International Dark Sky Parks, employing specific evaluation criteria essential for enhancing the promotion of alternative tourism forms such as geotourism and astronomical tourism. Our findings reveal that geopark websites adeptly promote geotourism through a diverse array of digital tools, with the potential for minor enhancements. In contrast, the majority of dark sky park websites exhibit limited visibility in the promotion of astronomical tourism. These identified criteria and results serve as crucial benchmarks for optimizing the websites of UNESCO Global Geoparks and International Dark Sky Parks, thus ensuring the comprehensive fulfillment of established promotional standards for alternative tourism destinations.

Suggested Citation

  • Michael Xanthakis & Androniki Simatou & Nikos Antonopoulos & Andreas Kanavos & Naoum Mylonas, 2024. "Alternative Forms of Tourism: A Comparative Study of Website Effectiveness in Promoting UNESCO Global Geoparks and International Dark Sky Parks," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(2), pages 1-20, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:16:y:2024:i:2:p:864-:d:1322390
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    References listed on IDEAS

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