ABSTRACT
A sustainable tourist destination is one that ensures the continuity of its natural and cultural resources, along with being socially and economically viable. While the market forces represent commercial viability concerns, it is imperative that long-term goals are set for destination development that enable sustaining of the very cultural and natural resources that make the destinations unique. Economic leakages and insensitive development dilute the positive environmental, cultural and socioeconomic impacts, resulting in an adverse effect on sustainability at large. There is a contrast between the developed and developing world in terms of role played by government versus private investments in providing or facilitating infrastructure, services and facilities that are critical for tourist destination creation and development. It is imperative that the challenges be understood and solutions found that focus on a long-term sustainable approach, rather than short-term gains. The case studies bring out the various issues and approaches that can help get an overview of the current scenario with respect to tourism destination development. The success achieved by certain destinations, though true to their own unique contexts, can guide and inspire others to emulate those practices that are relevant for them and be driven to seek their own unique solutions.
