The Manifestation of Neoliberalism Through Ecotourism : Tortuguero and Cahuita, Costa Rica as Case Studies
Loading...
Authors
Coleman, Gabriel
Issue Date
2024-01-01
Type
Thesis
Language
en_US
Keywords
Alternative Title
Abstract
A subcategory of tourism, ecotourism is meant to be a community-driven method of tourism that promotes environmentally responsible activities for tourists to participate in. Since its introduction in the 1980s, its definition has been argued amongst many scholars. In addition to this, it has been a means of bolstering the economy of many less economically developed countries (LEDCs), whose natural environment is a top destination for foreign tourists. Although this may be a good opportunity for locals to invest, it may also present the issue of foreign companies profiting off the land, while natives receive little to no benefit. Of the countries that rely on ecotourism to generate wealth for their economy, Costa Rica is one of most-well known. Hundreds of tourists travel to Costa Rica every day to experience their national parks. The purpose of this investigation is to examine first-hand its citizen's relationship with ecotourism, and to determine to what extent they practice it sustainably. This investigation was completed by traveling to and observing the social and natural landscape of Tortuguero and Cahuita, two places where tourist traffic is heavy every day. Methods for collecting data include conducting formal and informal interviews with locals regarding how they feel about the ecotourism industry in Costa Rica, and taking notes based on my observations. As mentioned, this study examines how ecotourism is practiced and to what extent it is practiced sustainably. Based on my findings, both places practice ecotourism sustainability to a substantial extent, although they both have room for improvement. Tortuguero specializes more in promoting a healthy ecosystem for its natural environment through policies and activities. On the other hand, Cahuita has better infrastructure for its people, which enables them to promote their cultural heritage and promote livelihood generation.
Description
64p.
Citation
Publisher
Kalamazoo, Mich. : Kalamazoo College.
License
U.S. copyright laws protect this material. Commercial use or distribution of this material is not permitted without prior written permission of the copyright holder. All rights reserved.