Exploring Tourism Prospects and Challenges: A Case Study of Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin in Bangladesh

Md Tofayel Ahmed

Dhaka College (Affiliated University of Dhaka), Dhaka, Dhanmondi-1209, Bangladesh

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.47772/IJRISS.2024.814MG0053

Received: 24 November 2024; Accepted: 29 November 2024; Published: 16 January 2025

ABSTRACT

Tourism remains an urgent economic driver, cultural exchange, and community development. This paper will discuss the prospects and challenges of tourism in two well-known destinations in Bangladesh: Cox’s Bazar, with a sea-facing long beach, and Saint Martin, renowned for coral islands. The present study focuses on an assessment of the perceptions of local and international visitors, identification of key strengths and weaknesses, and the socio-economic and environmental impacts of tourism in these areas. By applying qualitative and quantitative means of research-a survey and SWOT analysis-the study provides a comprehensive review of the current scenario of tourism. The findings revealed tremendous potential for growth, especially by the promotions of sustainable tourism and adopting strategic marketing methods. However, challenges like infrastructure deficits, environmental degradation, and crisis management issues still are very critical barriers. Recommendations at the end will be done toward a sustainable and inclusive tourism framework that guarantees long-term benefits to the local community, and in general, economic development.

Keywords: Tourism Prospects, Tourism Challenges, Cox’s Bazar, Saint Martin, Bangladesh Tourism, Sustainable Tourism, SWOT Analysis, Socio-Economic Impact, Environmental Impact, Strategic Marketing, Crisis Management, Infrastructure Deficits, Local Community Development, Economic Growth, Qualitative and Quantitative Research, Visitor Perceptions, Sustainable Development, Tourism Framework, Inclusive Tourism.

INTRODUCTION

Tourism plays a pivotal role in the economic development of a country, offering numerous prospects for growth and employment opportunities. Cox’s Bazar, located in Bangladesh, is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and is considered one of the most popular tourist destinations in the region. This paper aims to explore the prospects and problems associated with tourism in Cox’s Bazar, utilizing a combination of secondary data, online materials, and a small sample of primary data collected from 30 previous visitors to the area. By relying on secondary data, this research will draw upon existing literature, reports, and studies related to the tourism industry in Cox’s Bazar. Online materials, including websites, articles, and official tourism portals, will also be utilized to gather relevant information. In addition, limited primary data collection will be conducted through a small sample of 30 visitors who have previously experienced Cox’s Bazar. Their insights and experiences will provide valuable firsthand perspectives on the prospects and problems associated with tourism in the area. The objectives of this research are twofold. Firstly, it aims to identify and analyze the various prospects that tourism offers for the development of Cox’s Bazar. This will include examining the economic benefits, job creation, infrastructure development, and cultural exchange opportunities that arise from the tourism industry. Secondly, this paper will explore the problems and challenges faced by Cox’s Bazar as a tourist destination, such as environmental degradation, overcrowding, inadequate infrastructure, and socio-cultural impacts. To ensure the credibility and reliability of the findings, a systematic approach will be adopted in conducting this research. The secondary data will be carefully selected from reputable sources, such as academic journals, government reports, and international organizations’ publications. The online materials will be critically evaluated for their relevance, accuracy, and objectivity. The primary data collected from the 30 visitors will be analyzed using appropriate statistical techniques to derive meaningful insights. In conclusion, this term paper aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the prospects and problems of tourism in Cox’s Bazar. By utilizing a combination of secondary data, online materials, and a small sample of primary data, this research will contribute to a better understanding of the opportunities and challenges faced by this popular tourist destination.

Etymology of Tourism:

The English word tourist was first used in 1772, while tourism was first used in 1811. These terms stem from the word tour, which derives from the ancient English turian, the ancient French turner, and the Latin tornare, which means “to turn on a lathe.”

Tourism is defined as leisure or business travel, as well as the commercial activity   offering and supporting such travel.

Definition:

Tourism is difficult to define because of its multidimensional character and the various viewpoints from which it may be seen. However, various definitions have been given by organizations and researchers in the subject. Here are a few generally used definitions of tourism:

1. According to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), tourism is “the activities of persons traveling to and staying in places outside their usual environment for leisure, business, and other purposes for not more than one consecutive “
2. According to the International Association of Scientific Experts in Tourism (AIEST), tourism is “the sum of phenomena and relationships arising from the travel and stay of non-residents, insofar as they do not lead to permanent residence and are not connected with any earning activity.”
3. Tourism is defined by the United Nations as “the movement of people to countries or places outside their usual environment for personal, business, or professional “

These definitions emphasize the most important aspects of tourism, such as travel, transient stays, non-residency, and reasons such as pleasure, business, or personal discovery. Tourism includes a wide range of activities such as visiting tourist destinations, experiencing local culture, participating in leisure activities, and contributing to the local economy.

LITERATURE REVIEW

Tourism has gained overwhelming recognition academically and professionally for the high social, economic, and environmental impacts it is putting into place. This literature review synthesizes existing research on tourism with particular attention to the dynamics of popular tourist destinations in places such as Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin. It also brings forth challenges and opportunities for the tourism industry.

Tourism as a Global Phenomenon

Tourism has been identified as a vital economic activity, contributing to GDP growth, employment generation, and cultural exchange globally (UNWTO, 2022). Researchers such as Cooper et al. (2008) emphasize that tourism is not only an economic driver but also a catalyst for infrastructural development and cross-cultural understanding. However, uncontrolled tourism can lead to negative environmental and social consequences, including resource depletion and cultural erosion (Butler, 1980).

Tourism in Developing Countries

Tourism is usually regarded as one of the tools for economic development and poverty alleviation in developing countries. According to Ashley et al. (2001), Scheyvens’ studies (1999) have identified that while tourism can be an empowering tool at the grassroots level, benefits are largely asymmetrical, accruing mostly to bigger operators. Literature has also identified the need for sustainable practices that will limit environmental degradation in fragile ecosystems.

Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin as Tourism Destination

Cox’s Bazar is known for its long sandy sea beach, whereas Saint Martin is known for coral reefs and crystal-clear water. Many scholars have emphasized these destinations due to their high potential to emerge as international tourist hotspots. Some relevant studies in this context include Hassan & Khan, 2017; Rahman et al., 2020. In these studies, natural beauty, low prices, and local culture were identified as the major reasons for visits. However, infrastructural deficiencies, improper waste management, and overcrowding have emerged as some serious issues.

Coastal Areas Tourism: Its Path towards Sustainability

For instance, the Coastal Tourism Development in Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin should be guided by a balance between economic gains and environmental conservation principles. From this perspective, Hall (2001) advances a framework of sustainable tourism development that emphasizes aspects related to communitarian governance, resource use efficiency, and long-term thinking. Very recently, Alam et al. (2021) have stressed the importance of undertaking ecotourism ventures with more stringent regulations in protecting ecological integrity.

Tourism Behavior and Preference

Understanding the preference of tourists will also help formulate effective marketing strategies. Safety, hygiene and access, and experiences that are unique have been highlighted as priorities of tourists in choosing destinations (Kim et al., 2013). Thus, for Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin, improved facilities, and branding them as eco-friendly destinations can make these places more attractive for both domestic and international visitors.

Research Gaps

Whereas numerous research pieces have ranged over Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin concerning their potential for tourism, there is still a lack with respect to the stands of foreign tourists and specific challenges faced by the local community. Crisis management or disaster preparedness issues have also been covered in the current study concerning the destinations under discussion, as they are highly prone to natural disasters.

STUDY AREA PROFILE

With a length of 120 kilometers, Cox’s Bazar Sea beach is the world’s longest sea beach. It is Bangladesh’s most popular beach and tourism destination. The Bay of Bengal’s undulating water reaches the beach throughout, with surfing waves, unique conch shells, towering cliffs, colorful pagodas, Buddhist temples, and tribal life— this is Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh’s tourism hub.

Each section of the 120-kilometer coastline is called individually, and the vegetation and wildlife are diverse. It begins with ‘Laboni Beach’ and Sugandha Beach’ inside the Cox’s Bazaar district, and continues 10 kilometers south to Inani Beach, 30 kilometers further south to Inani Beach, and more than 70 kilometers away to Tekhnaf Beach’. Things should be quieter here, but anticipate big things.

About cox’s bazar at a glance according to ESCAP (Economic and Social Commission for Asian and the Pacific):

Saint Martin Island is a tiny (3 km2) island in the north-eastern section of the Bay of Bengal, about 9 km south of the tip of the Cox’s Bazar-Teknaf peninsula, and is Bangladesh’s southernmost point. Chera Dwip is a tiny neighboring island that is separated during high tide. It is located approximately 8 kilometers (5 miles) west of Myanmar’s northwest coast, at the mouth of the Naf River.

About Saint Martin at a glance according to Wikipedia:

Study Profile Area Maps:

Source: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-021-99750-7

Objectives of the Study

The analysis of the tourism potential of Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin is derived from the below study. In this short time frame, an attempt has been made to assess the present situation of these places, together with some actionable measures to be taken against the prevailing flaws and irregularities and dissatisfaction among visitors.

This research has several key objectives: to present a complete portrayal of Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin, assess their current situation, describe their development to be attained in the future, and specify the main barriers that hamper their further development as a tourist destination.

The purpose of this paper is to explore the opportunities and challenges associated with Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin as key tourism hubs, offering insights and recommendations to enhance their appeal and sustainability.

Authored by Md Tofayel Ahmed, a Bachelor of Business Administration graduate with a keen interest in expanding his knowledge in business and tourism, this research reflects a dedicated effort to contribute to these dynamic and impactful fields.

The objectives of the study will be as follows:

• To study and understand the tourist potential and problems in Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin.
• To find out the problems of the tourists in these destinations.
• To suggest possible solutions and recommendations to overcome such problems and shortcomings to improve the overall tourism experience.
• To assess the expectations of visitors to Cox’s Bazar and promote Saint Martin Sea Beach is a very prospective tourist spot in Bangladesh.
• To analyze the services currently available, such as accommodation, transportation, refreshment, and the perception of the general public, about the largest sea beach in the world.
• To study the demographic details of past travelers to these places.
• To provide useful insights and suggestions for improving the tourism business in Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin.

METHODOLOGY OF THE STUDY

The number of methods in which the task is completed is referred to as methodology. It contains certain chronological phases that must be accomplished to finish the research. However-

• This field research report is founded on primary and secondary sources.
• Primary data was gathered from Dhaka residents who visited Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin.
• Respondents assist me in learning about their perspectives on the issues and the potential of tourism in Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin.
• I utilized a self-developed questionnaire to acquire a more effective responses to my term paper.
• Most of the statistical data was gathered from the relevant sources.
• Different quantitative and qualitative measurements were used to examine the acquired data.

Limitation of the Study

• Limited Access to Respondents:

      Challenges in reaching a diverse group of respondents, especially foreign tourists.

• Scarcity of Latest Data:

      One of the significant limitations of this study was the unavailability of recent and up-to-date data.

• Seasonal Constraints:

       The study was conducted during a particular season, which may not reflect year-round tourism dynamics.

Questionnaire

• According to your experience, when is the ideal time to visit Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin?
• According to your experience, what is the best reason to visit Cox’s Bazar?
• How would you rank Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin’s facilities?
• Have you participated in any extraordinary daring activities in Cox’s Bazar?
• Could you kindly provide a list of the issues you encountered throughout your trip to Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin?
• What kinds of problems have you encountered as a result of the price increase?
• How does tourism affect the overall ecosystem of Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin?
• Do you believe that an uncontrolled number of visitors is interfering with their enjoyment?
• Which of the following justifications is appropriate for the development of infrastructure in Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin?
• What are your thoughts on Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin as tourist destinations?
• Could you help offer some government responsibilities for the general development of Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin?

Hypothesis

1. Tourism growth is heavily influenced on infrastructure development.
2. Economic growth and commodity prices have a considerable influence on tourist development.
3. The breadth of business and the potential for investment have a great influence on tourist development.
4. Environmental awareness has had a substantial influence on tourist growth.

STUDY RESULT: FINDING AND ANALYSIS

Data Presentation and Analysis:

One of the most crucial aspects of a term paper is the data analysis. I created a questionnaire survey utilizing a paper copy of the questionnaire in order to include statistical data. There are 30 responders in all. This questionnaire survey was used to gather primary data. Each responder to this survey is given a questionnaire, and they are asked to complete all of the “Data Forms”‘ instructions completely and without leaving any blank spaces. The purpose of this study was to learn more about the challenges and potential for tourism in Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin.

Below are the queries that were used to gather data:

A. Demographic information of the respondents:

 At this stage respondents are asked for personal information.

It was requested of the responders to specify their gender:

What is your gender?

30 respondents

Picture: 1

The pie chart shows that the total number of respondents is 30 individuals, the survey found that among the 30 respondents almost 70% were male and 30% were female.

The respondents’ age groups were requested, which they provided:

 What age group do you fall in?

30 respondents

Picture: 2

According to the age group of respondents, 30% were below 20 years, 40% were between 20 to 30 years, 10% were between 30 to 40 years, 10% were between 40 to 50 years and 10% were above 50 years of age.

The respondents’ occupation was requested of them in the response:

Which status do you belong to? 30 respondents

Picture: 3

According to the respondents’ occupations, 10% were company owners, 15% were employees, 50% were students, and 25% were employed in other occupation.

The respondents were asked to provide their employment and their current financial situation:

What is your income level?

30 respondents

Picture: 4

According to the respondents’ monthly incomes, which are listed below: 10000–20.000 BDT to 20000 BDT per month; 30%

Monthly earnings ranged from 20,000 to 30,000 BDT; 25%

Monthly revenue ranged between 30,000 and 40,000 BDT; 20%

40000 to 50000 BDT to 50000 BDT per month; 15%

A 50000 BDT monthly income was above 10%.

The respondents’ degree of schooling was requested of them:

What status do you belong to?

30 respondents

Picture: 5

To find out how frequently each responder had visited Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin, the question was posed.

The majority of individuals, 40% of respondents completed their graduation degree, 30% of respondents had completed their higher secondary education level and 20% of respondents had completed their post-graduation degree and 10% of respondents were below SSC.

The respondents were questioned on how frequently they visited Saint Martin and Cox’s bazar:

 How many times have you visited Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin?

 30 respondents

Picture: 6

To find out how frequently each responder had visited Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin, the question was posed.

The majority of individuals, 60% of respondents, had never been to Cox’s Bazar or Saint Martin; 30% had been there twice; and 10% had been multiple times.

When questioned whether they had used transportation to get to Cox’s Bazar and Saint-Martin:

 Which kinds of transportation they used to visit?

30 respondents

Picture: 7

15% of respondents prefer private transportation, 75% prefer public transportation, and 10% prefer flying to visit Cox’s Bazar and Saint-Martin, according to the study results.

B. Analysis and explanation of data:

Data analysis and interpretation is a process by which the data is known from where and how it was collected. To collect the data some questions were asked to the respondents and their opinions were taken. Percentages rating points etc. Are used to analyze the data. AS a result, it becomes easier to uncover the problems and prospects there.

Question 1:

According to your experience, when is the ideal time to visit Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin?

30 respondents

• October to February
• March to June
• July to September

The survey’s inclusion of the question was done in an effort to determine the best time of year to visit Saint Martin and Cox’s Bazar. For a calm voyage, over 70% of respondents chose the months of October to February, 13% chose the months of March to June, and 17% chose the months of July to September.

Question 2: –

According to your experience, what is the best reason to visit Cox’s Bazar?

30 respondents

• Natural attraction of the beach
• Scenery of sunset
• Enjoying sea waves
• Scenery of sunrise

According to the examination of the aforementioned data, 30% of visitors to  Cox’s bazar come for the beach’s unspoiled beauty. 25% of visitors are drawn to the rea because of its great beauty because they want to see the sunset. The sea waves that generate 14% of the world’s pure air and wash away all of life’s sorrows of tourists are another attraction of the seashore. The sun rises to mark the beginning of the day, and from a seaside location, one may observe the sunrise’s natural surroundings. 31% of visitors come to take in the splendor of sunrise and sunset.

Question 3: –

How would you rank Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin’s facilities?

30 respondents

Facilities:

• Transportation
• Food and beverage
• Hospitality and Accommodation
• Security system
• Photography opportunities
• Peaceful environment

The question was designed to gauge how satisfied respondents were with the accessibility of the most important amenities while traveling to Cox’s Bazar. According to the Above vertical chart, a maximum of respondents gave photographic opportunities a rating of 7. The chance for food and drink receives the highest grade of 6. The rating point for tranquility and transportations was 5. Finally, they awarded a dismal grade of 3 for both the hospitality and lodging as well as the security systems.

Question 4: –

Have you participated in any extraordinary daring activities in Cox’s Bazar?

30 respondents

• Marin Life
• Water Sports
• parachute drive

In this inquiry, individuals were asked if they engaged in any unusual activities the roughout their vacation.

According to their description, they participated in water activities 50% of the time. Then,    at     a    rate    of    30%,    they    chose     marine     life     entertainment. A tiny percentage of tourists (20%) used parachute drivers.

Question 5: –

Could you kindly provide a list of the issues you encountered throughout your trip to Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin?

30 respondents

Problems:

• Lack of infrastructural development
• Lack of transportation facilities
• No rail route from Chittagong to Cox’s Bazar
• Lack of proper medical service
• Lack of recreational facility in Beach
• Unhealthy drainage system
• Lack of security system
• Lack of toilet and changing room facilities
• Lack of pure drinking water
• Overcrowding problem
• Limited road capacity

Travelers assessed the challenges they encountered throughout their journey in response to the question. Infrastructural issue, transportations issue and rail route communication issue were the most prevalent issue they encountered, earning them the maximum rating of 9. Then they notice the problem of clean water, which received a grade of 6. Then they identify recreational facilities with poor drainage systems and issues with sufficient medical services, which received 7, 5 and 4 rating points, respectively.

Question 6: –

What kinds of problems have you encountered as a result of the price increase?

30 respondents

• Rising prices of goods and services.
• Rising accommodation
• Rising transportation costs.

Rising commodity prices have an impact on people’s lives, as well as the tourism industry, as travelers are sometimes confronted with a variety of problems. We discovered three dangers for travelers during our Q&A session. was 40%. Second, the cost of products, services, and transportation grew by 30%, respectively.

Question 7: –

How does tourism affect the overall ecosystem of Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin?

30 respondents

• Environmental impact
• Social
• Cultural

Through these inquiries, respondents learned that the economy has the biggest impact on tourism. It also affects the environment, which in turn affects culture and society.

Question 8: –

Do you believe that an uncontrolled amount of visitors is interfering with their enjoyment?

30 respondents

• Yes
• No

According to the majority of responders to this question, taking in the view of the sea is negatively impacted by the uncontrolled visitors.

Question 9: –

Which of the following justifications is appropriate for the development of infrastructure in Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin?

30 respondents

1. Private investment
2. Public sector investment
3. PPP investment

Question 10: –

What is your impression about Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin as a tourist place?

30 respondents

• Very Good
• Good
• Natural
• Bad
• Very Bad

Question 11: –

Could you help offer some government responsibilities for the general development of Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin?

30 respondents

Development program to be taken:

1. Implement visitor management tactics. This is the first step in the development program.
2. Encourage overseas travel outside of the busiest
3. Encourage individuals to be environmentally mindful.
4. Make an investment in infrastructure
5. Create economic zones in Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin.
6. Raise the administration of the beach to world-class levels.
7. Update websites to acquire the most recent
8. Building a train connection between Chittagong and Cox’s Bazar

Current Project:

1. Improvements to the Cox’s Bazar airport
2. Building the roadway between Chittagong and Cox’s Bazar

Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin- As a Tourist Spot:

Prospects of Tourism in Cox’s Bazar as a Tourist Spot: Local visitors’ Perspective

As a tourist spot, Cox’s Bazar is full of natural beauty and recreational facilities. The tourist which are already visited this tourist spot and evaluated her as one of the best tourist spots in Bangladesh.

Problems of Cox’s Bazar as a tourist spot: Local Visitors Perspective  

The study shows that the respondents were indefinitely different types of problems with Cox’s Bazar when asked about the problems they already faced. The problems are given below based on visitor perspective.

Prospects of Tourism in Saint Martin as a Tourist Spot: Local  visitors’ Perspective:

 Here’s a table showcasing the prospects of tourism in Saint Martin as a tourist spot from the visitors’ perspective.

Problems of Saint Martin as a tourist spot: Local Visitor’s Perspective:

Prospects of Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin – As a Tourist spot: for a foreign visitor

Problems of Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin – As a Tourist spot: for a foreign visitor

Cox’s Bazar & Saint Martin as The Tourist Spot:

Swot Analysis:

SWOT analysis is the process of recognizing the opportunities and issues that may exist for any business or organization by determining the external and internal elements. The internal factors include strength and weakness, while the external aspects are opportunities and threats

 Strength

• Scenic natural beauty
• Beautiful sea beaches
• Diversified wild habitats
• Natural ecosystem
• Easy accessibility
• Hospitality from locals
• Attractive local foods & products

 Opportunity

• Development of infrastructure & accommodation facilities
• Conservation or preservation or redevelopment
• Developing eco-tourism
• Creating employment opportunities
• Emphasizing local products
• Innovation of tourist products and tourism industry development
• PPP in development projects
• Coordination among local bod es and national authorities

Threat

• Uncontrolled and unplanned development activities
• Over extraction and exploitation of natural resources
• Developing projecting without following ecosystem policy or measures
• Political instability
• Fault or arbitrariness in major decision or policymaking
• Rapid commercialization threatening the natural landscape and wildlife

Weakness

• Lack of infrastructure facilities
• Lack of accommodation facilities
• Safety & security concerns
• Lack of tour guide services
• Lack of public transport facilities
• Budget allocation and lack of investments

IMPACT OF TOURISM

Social Impacts of Tourism in Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin:

Positive Impacts:

Tourism encourages cultural interchange between visitors and local populations. While residents gain from exposure to other cultures and viewpoints, tourists have the chance to enjoy the local way of life, customs, and cuisine.

Jobs: Tourism creates jobs in a variety of industries, including hospitality, travel retail, and tour guiding, both directly and indirectly. Local communities’ incomes and standard of living improve as a result.

Negative Impacts:

Social Disruption: Rapid tourist expansion may cause social disturbance since it may alter customary lives and neighborhood dynamics. Local traditions, morals, and social structures may change as a result of increased consumerism and outside cultural influences.

Overcrowding: In especially in prominent tourist sites, high tourist numbers during peak seasons can cause overcrowding. The entire tourist experience as well as the quality of life for locals may be impacted by this demand on the community’s infrastructure, services, and resources.

Economic Impacts of Tourism in Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin:

Positive Impacts:

Revenue Generation: Tourism brings in foreign exchange through visitor expenditures, including accommodation, food, transportation, and souvenirs. This revenue contributes to the local economy, stimulating business growth and development.

Employment Creation: Tourism-related activities create direct and indirect employment opportunities for local residents, helping to reduce unemployment rates and alleviate poverty.

Income Distribution: Tourism has the potential to distribute income more evenly among different sectors of the local economy, supporting small businesses and diversifying the economic base.

Negative Impacts:

Seasonal Dependency: Tourism in Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin is often highly seasonal, with peak periods experiencing a surge in visitors and economic activity, while off-peak seasons face reduced tourism flows. This creates a challenge for local businesses and workers who rely heavily on tourism for income.

Leakage of Revenue: A portion of the tourism revenue may leak out of the local economy through imported goods, international tour operators, and foreign-owned establishments, impacting the overall economic benefits for the destination.

Cultural Impacts of Tourism in Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin:

Positive Impacts:

Cultural Preservation: Tourism can create incentives for the preservation and promotion of local culture, traditions, and heritage. Communities often showcase their cultural practices, arts, and craftsmanship to attract tourists, leading to the revitalization of cultural assets.

Increased Awareness: Tourism exposes visitors to different cultural practices, encouraging respect and appreciation for diversity. This can foster cultural understanding and tolerance among tourists and locals alike.

Negative Impacts:

Cultural Commodification: The commercialization of cultural practices and traditions for tourism purposes may result in the commodification and superficial representation of local culture, potentially leading to inauthentic experiences and loss of cultural integrity.

Westernization and Homogenization: The influence of global tourism trends and preferences may lead to the adoption of Westernized standards, diluting or eroding unique cultural identities.

Environmental Impacts of Tourism in Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin:

Positive Impacts:

Conservation Efforts: The presence of tourists can raise awareness about the importance of environmental conservation, leading to efforts to protect natural resources, including beaches, coral reefs, and wildlife.

Sustainable Practices: Tourism stakeholders may adopt sustainable practices, such as waste management, renewable energy use, and eco-friendly initiatives, to minimize their environmental footprint.

Negative Impacts:

Resource Depletion: High tourist numbers can put pressure on natural resources, leading to depletion and degradation of the environment, such as water and energy resources. Excessive water consumption for hotels, resorts, and recreational activities can strain local water supplies.

Pollution: Tourism can generate pollution, including waste, sewage, and noise, which can damage the environment and impact local ecosystems, affecting both wildlife and human health. Improper waste management and lack of proper sanitation facilities can result in pollution of beaches, marine habitats, and surrounding areas.

Habitat Destruction: Unplanned and unregulated tourism development can lead to habitat destruction, particularly in sensitive coastal ecosystems. Construction of hotels, resorts, and infrastructure can encroach upon natural habitats, leading to the loss of biodiversity and disruption of fragile ecosystems.

Table 1: Impacts of Tourism in Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin as a short list:

FINANCIAL ANALYSIS OF TOURISM IN COX’S BAZAR AND SAINT MARTIN

 A comprehensive financial analysis of tourism in Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin would require access to detailed financial data and market research specific to these destinations

Revenue Generation:

Assess the total revenue generated from tourism activities, including accommodation, transportation, food and beverage, entertainment, and souvenirs.

Analyze the breakdown of revenue from domestic and international tourists. Consider the seasonality of tourism and its impact on revenue patterns.

Cost Structure:

Identify and analyze the various costs associated with tourism operations, such as labor, marketing and promotion, maintenance and repairs, utilities, and administrative expenses.

Evaluate the cost of infrastructure development and maintenance to support tourism activities.

Profitability:

Calculate the gross profit margin by subtracting the cost of goods sold from total revenue.

Determine the net profit margin by deducting all operating expenses, including overhead costs and taxes, from the gross profit.

Assess the profitability of different sectors within tourism, such as accommodations, transportation, and attractions.

Investment and Return:

Evaluate the capital investment required for tourism infrastructure development, including hotels, resorts, transportation facilities, and attractions.

Assess the return on investment (ROI) by comparing the initial investment with the generated revenue and profitability.

Consider the payback period and the long-term financial sustainability of tourism investments.

Economic Impact:

Analyze the multiplier effect of tourism on the local economy, including the indirect and induced effects on other sectors such as agriculture, retail, and services.

Evaluate the contribution of tourism to employment generation and income distribution.

Risk Assessment:

Identify potential risks and challenges that could affect the financial viability of tourism in Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin, such as political instability, natural disasters, changing market trends, and competition from other destinations.

Please note that conducting an accurate financial analysis requires access to reliable and up-to-date financial data from tourism stakeholders, government reports, and market research. It is recommended to consult with industry experts, tourism boards, and financial analysts familiar with the specific context of Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin for a more detailed and accurate financial analysis.

MARKETING AND PROMOTIONAL STRATEGIES

Branding and Positioning of Destinations:

• Develop a unique and compelling destination brand identity that reflects the distinctive features, natural attractions, and cultural richness of Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin.
• Emphasize the key selling points of the destinations, such as the longest natural sandy beach, coral reefs, pristine landscapes, and rich cultural heritage.
• Position Cox’s Bazar as a premier beach destination and Saint Martin as a tranquil and eco-friendly island getaway.
• Conduct market research to identify target markets and tailor the branding and positioning strategies accordingly.

Digital Marketing and Online Presence:

• Establish a strong online presence through an official destination website, social media platforms, and online travel portals.
• Optimize the website and online content for search engines to ensure better visibility and reach.
• Utilize engaging visuals, videos, and user-generated content to showcase the natural beauty, attractions, and experiences of Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin.
• Implement targeted digital marketing campaigns, including search engine marketing, social media advertising, and influencer partnerships, to reach potential tourists.

Tourist Information Centers and Services:

• Set up well-equipped and accessible tourist information centers in strategic locations, both in Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin, to provide visitors with comprehensive information, maps, brochures, and guidance.
• Train staff at tourist information centers to deliver excellent customer service, provide accurate information, and assist with travel arrangements.
• Offer multilingual support and digital self-service kiosks to cater to diverse visitor needs.

Partnerships and Collaborations for Destination Marketing:

• Collaborate with local businesses, hotels, tour operators, and travel agencies to develop joint marketing initiatives and packages that promote the destinations.
• Establish partnerships with airlines, travel agents, and online travel agencies to promote Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin as attractive travel destinations.
• Engage with influencers, bloggers, and travel writers to generate buzz and create engaging content about the destinations.
• Collaborate with government tourism bodies, chambers of commerce, and industry associations to leverage their networks and resources for destination marketing campaigns.

CRISIS MANAGEMENT AND RISK ASSESSMENT

 Natural Disaster Preparedness and Response:

• Develop an integrated disaster management plan entailing early warning systems, evacuation procedures, and communication protocols.
• Establish close coordination of response efforts with local authorities, emergency services, and community organizations.
• Provide regular training and simulation drills in the tourism sector for preparedness on various scenarios of natural disasters.
• Disseminate timely information to tourists on potential risks, safety measures, and important contact numbers in case of emergencies.

Safety and Security of Tourists:

• Liaise with police to increase the levels of security in tourist areas through regular patrols and surveillance.
• Take other measures that address the issues of day-to-day safety, such as theft, fraud, and harassment.
• Activate tourist policing or a helpline available at any time for immediate assistance in case of an emergency.
• Raise awareness about personal safety through an information campaign and literature targeted at tourists.

Health and Hygiene Measures:

• Follow health and hygiene requirements within accommodation facilities, restaurants, and tourist attractions. Have access to clean water, appropriate facilities for personal sanitation, and a waste management system at tourist destinations.
• Enact health and safety measures such as frequent cleaning, disinfection, social distancing policies, and the use of personal protective equipment.
• Cooperate with healthcare professionals to establish a network of medical facilities that could serve the needs of tourists.

Crisis-time Reputation Management:

• Establish a crisis management team with the mandates of effectively managing and responding to crises.
• Monitor and assess potential risk and threat factors to the reputation of Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin.
• Develop a communication strategy aimed at timely responding to and managing crisis situations, including regular updates to tourists and stakeholders.

FOCUSED PROBLEMS AND RECOMMENDATION

Determine by the researcher based on the finding

The research has articulated some points in a comprehensive way that have emerged from the study, which are as follows:

Overcrowding and Over tourism: The high influx of tourists in Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin can lead to overcrowding, putting a strain on infrastructure, resources, and the local community.

Recommendation:

• Visitor management strategies, such as carrying capacity assessments and the institution of visitor quotas, can be implemented to control the number of tourists visiting an area at any one time.
• Tourism products could be diversified and unknown sites promoted to help distribute tourist flow and avoid pressure hotspots.
• Visitors can be encouraged to travel during the off-peak season by offering incentives and discounts.

Environmental Degradation: Rapidly growing tourism may cause environmental degradation through pollution, waste generation, and destruction of natural ecosystems.

Recommendation:

• Implement strict environmental regulations and ensure responsible tourism practices are followed.
• Encourage environmentally friendly actions such as waste management programs, recycling, and sustainable energy use.
• Educate tourists about environmental care and encourage responsible behavior through awareness campaigns.

Socio-cultural Disruption: Uncontrolled tourism development can induce disruptions to local communities, cultural commodification, and loss of authenticity.

Recommendation:

• Involve local communities in tourism planning and decision-making to ensure that their voices are represented.
• The community-based tourism initiatives that will empower local communities and enable them to gain from tourism directly.
• Promote cultural sensitivity amongst tourists and bilinearly encourage the tourists to respectfully interact with the local community.

Seasonality: Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin risk a high seasonality of tourism, which can economically be very unstable for local businesses and residents during the off-peak season.

Recommendation:

• Devise plans to extend the tourism period throughout the year by offering diversified attractions and creating events and festivals outside the peak tourist season.
• Offer incentives and support to local businesses to conduct their operations all year round and with specialized products or services.
• Explore niche markets like ecotourism, adventure, or cultural tourism to attract tourists during the lean months.

Infrastructure Development: Inferior infrastructure often creates obstacles in the way of growth and development of tourism in Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin.

Recommendation:

• Invest in infrastructure: transportation networks, accommodation facilities, waste management system, and other public facilities.
• The second is to involve public and private sectors to raise funds for infrastructure.
• Infrastructure development shall be appropriately guided in light of sustainable practices that preserve the integrity of both natural and cultural resources at the destination.

Addressing these focused problems needs a collaborative and holistic approach by government authorities, tourism stakeholders, local communities, and tourists themselves. Regular monitoring, evaluation, and adaptation of strategies will mitigate these problems and help in fostering sustainable tourism development in Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin.

CONCLUSION

Tourism is an integral part of Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin both from the economic perspective and also from a social development angle. Both the destinations have fantastic opportunities for future growth and development. But tourism needs to be managed in such a way that the benefits are equitably distributed with negative impacts minimized. Among these, the positive impacts identified by this present study are economic growth, availability of jobs, and cultural change. Negative impacts noted include destruction to the environment, overcrowding, and disruption to socio-cultural life.

These will be strategies of economic growth, coupled with concern for the environment and society, to achieve sustainable tourism development. This is product diversification, promotion of responsible tourism practices, and also the involvement of local communities in tourism planning and decision-making. The study also highlighted crisis management and risk assessment as one of the important issues that will contribute to reduce some of the imminent threats of tourism.

The commitment to sustainable development practices, stakeholder collaboration, and responsible tourist behavior is what, in the final analysis, holds the key to successful tourism in Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin. The identified focused problems, once resolved and the recommended strategies implemented, may allow for the attraction of more visitors, faster economic growth, and cultural exchange without harming their natural and cultural heritage.

REFERENCES

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