Agency and coevolutionary path development in tourism destinations

Identifier:  imarina:9462723

Handle: https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11797/imarina9462723

Authors:  de Leon, Carlos Gauna Ruiz; Clave, Salvador Anton; Sanz-Ibanez, Cinta; Arce, Alfonso Zepeda

Abstract:
Drawing on recent debates in Evolutionary Economic Geography (EEG), this study relies on path development and coevolution theories to gain deep understanding of tourism destination trajectories over time. This framework allows, on the one hand, to implement a long-term perspective which goes beyond the analysis of isolated episodes of development, putting particular attention to the role of agency across path transformation. On the other hand, it also highlights the reciprocal causal relationships between actors, industries, institutions, and development paths, underscoring the socio-economic context and the integration of these relationships across various spatial scales. Empirical evidence derives from exploring the evolution of the Southern Coast of Jalisco region in Mexico as a tourism destination from the 1930s to the present. Employing a qualitative methodology that includes semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders and documentary analysis, findings obtained reveal the coevolution of distinctive tourism paths within the region and the interrelations between these paths, including positive synergies and actual conflicts with other productive, social and environmental dimensions of the place. Overall, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of tourism destinations' evolution from a Global South perspective and offers insights for policymakers aiming to foster resilient, adaptive, and inclusive regional development strategies.