Publicación:

Modeling for sustainable tourism management and objective happiness in times of profound changes: the case of Usiacurí, Colombia

Resumen en inglés

Purpose - The purpose of this study is to analyse changes in tourism as a local economic development sector, considering environmental degradation and new global scenarios during and after the pandemic. The objective is to propose a sustainable, collaborative, and happinessoriented tourism management model to revive the tourism sector. Methodology/Design/Approach - The study utilizes grounded theory methodology, incorporating a systematic document review and a critical analysis of the successful UsiacuríAtlántico municipality in tourism management. This approach aids in developing the TUGMECOL tourism model, emphasizing collaborative networks and promoting dynamic, productive, participatory, legitimate, and respectful heritage tourism management. Results - The study’s findings converge in the TUGMECOL tourism management model, notable for its emphasis on quality of life and objective happiness as innovative dimensions for sustainable tourism sector development. This model is evident as a manifestation of political trust in local development. Originality of the research - This research is unique in its approach to sustainable tourism management as a collaborative strategy for local economic development. The use of grounded theory and critical analysis in the successful case of Usiacurí-Atlántico enhances the study’s originality and significance for potential replication in similar rural areas, opening avenues for further research to enhance the model. Keywords Sustainable alternative touri