SUSTAINABLE LOCAL DEVELOPMENT FROM COMMUNITY-BASED TOURISM

LESSONS FROM ITS PRACTICES AND CHALLENGES IN THE TERRITORY OF PARATY/RJ, BRAZIL

Abstract

Community-Based Tourism (CBT) are ways of managing visiting activities that have several endogenous-territorial and sustainable principles. Because of this, it is associated with the perspective of Sustainable Local Development (DLS), especially its cultural, ecological, economic, political and social dimensions. However, achieving these principles is not simple, as it occurs through carrying out challenging practices that materialize them. In view of this, this work sought to describe TBC practices that are linked to DLS and its challenges in this process. This objective occurred through a crucial case study in the territory of Paraty/RJ, which has a well-strengthened TBC and possibilities to contribute to the DLS. Data collection took place through documentary surveys, application of a semi-structured questionnaire and direct observation. Data interpretation was based on the thematic content analysis technique. As a result, TBC practices in Paraty were found to be linked to different DLS factors, through: gastronomy; artistic productions; presentation of historical places and the ways of life that distinguish the territory, etc. The challenges of these practices involve issues both internal (in the field of community action) and external (which does not depend solely on the community). In this way, this research helps to advance the understanding of how TBC actions that adhere to the DLS are carried out, which is a gap in the literature. Furthermore, it shows some bottlenecks that can be overcome so that endogenous and sustainable development is more possible.