Residents' attitudes of tourism in small communities: Four case studies

Tourism development can be both an enabling as well as a threatening force for the well-being of local communities. Thus, it is important to explore local views on cohabiting with tourists and how tourism development impacts residents’ quality of life.

In 2018 residents' attitudes of tourism were studied in four Icelandic communities: Husavik, Stykkisholmur, Egilsstadir and Reykjanesbaer. Through in-depth interviews and a telephone survey, residents were asked about their attitudes and experience of tourists and the tourism industry in their community. Results were published in 2019 by the Icelandic Tourist Board. 

Reports (in Icelandic) can be found on: 

Egilsstaðir

Húsavík

Stykkishólmur

Reykjanesbær

 

Earlier case studies: 

In 2015, Hólar University College contucted a study based on in-depth interviews and observations in four Icelandic communities. The project was financed by the Icelandic Tourist Board.

In 2016 the Ministry of Industries and Innovation financed a study in three small communities; Hornafjordur, Siglufjordur and Myvatn. Through in-depth interviews and a telephone survey, residents were asked about their attitudes and experience of tourists and the tourism industry in their community. The study was conducted by the Icelandic Tourism Research Centre and the University of Akureyri Research Centre. The results were published in the end of 2016 in 2 reports (in Icelandic).

 Analysis of tourism impact in Icelandic communities/Greining á áhrifum ferðaþjónustu

Tourism impact in Icelandic communities / Áhrif ferðaþjónustu