Plan de desarrollo turístico aplicado al barrio Paraíso Amazónico, cantón el Coca, provincia de Orellana

Abstract

The research conducted in the Paraíso Amazonico neighborhood revealed the urgent need for a Tourism Development Plan due to the existing disorganization among the actors involved in tourism, and the low quality of the services offered. This situation was evident, limiting its attractiveness for visitors and, therefore, restricting the income of the local community. Therefore, research was undertaken to create a Tourism Development Plan focused on improving these services and increasing local income. The methodology applied was comprehensive, combining quantitative approaches, based on the analysis of statistical data obtained from surveys, and qualitative approaches. Deductive and inductive research methods were used, especially during visits to the neighborhood. The non-experimental design made it possible to understand the reality of the neighborhood from a tourism point of view. The research involved inhabitants, businessmen and other key actors, supported by a documentary base. Through this methodology, the absence of a tourism development plan in the neighborhood was determined. Direct observation helped create a matrix of priority issues that needed attention. In addition, a strategy was formulated to develop a tourism brand with the objective of increasing the neighborhood's visibility in the tourism market. It was concluded that the lack of adequate organization in the neighborhood was a major obstacle. However, the combination of a sound methodological approach, a participatory process and the implementation of efficient branding and management strategies were key to the success of tourism development in Paraíso Amazonico.