A Comparative Analysis of Bozcaada and Gökçeada in Terms of Sustainable Tourism and Competitiveness Policies

Abstract

This research investigates the viewpoints of local stakeholders regarding the sustainability of tourism and the competitive edge of Bozcaada and Gökçeada. The analysis adopted a qualitative framework, implementing a semi-structured design featuring ten questions that were grouped into four central themes for data gathering. The composition of the sample includes an equal number of public officials, tourism operators, local community members, and NGO representatives, all selected from the areas of Bozcaada and Gökçeada. The use of purposive sampling enabled the acquisition of targeted insights related to the dynamics of competition and the principles of sustainable tourism. The analysis of the collected data involved categorizing it into subthemes, and the findings gained reliability through the inclusion of direct quotes. The analysis indicated that both Bozcaada and Gökçeada face numerous shared challenges due to their island status, in addition to distinct issues stemming from their geographical and cultural disparities. The analysis revealed that the main challenges were centered on 'transportation and accessibility,' where 'day-trip tourism' was particularly significant for Bozcaada, contrasting with Gökçeada's emphasis on 'inadequate planning.