https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/120573 Sat, 18 Apr 2026 03:08:32 GMT 2026-04-18T03:08:32Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145289 Title: Challenges and directions to achieving sustainable pathways in the city of Valletta Abstract: The purpose of the research focuses on how sustainable tourism is being interpreted in Valletta by different stakeholders, while also concentrating on the existing difficulties and opportunities to implement this type of tourism in the city. A qualitative approach was applied and data was collected through one-to-one semi-standardised interviews with a variety of people including residents, members of the Valletta local council, and high-profile individuals of diverse entities related to tourism. The findings show that tourism played an important part in bolstering Valletta’s economy and environment, however, factors such as noise pollution, building alterations, high property prices, and lack of broad consultation, policies, and planning are undermining Valletta’s image as a sustainable place where people live and visit. At the same time, despite not having the same interpretation of what sustainable tourism means, all the stakeholders expressed the strategies and plans they wish to implement to see Valletta’s sustainability moving forward. The conclusion based on the research conducted is that although sustainable tourism is made up of the social, economic, and environmental pillars, not all pillars are being given the same importance. This explains the problems referred to in the dissertation, as different priorities are leading to an unstable environment where the term ‘sustainability’ is not being fully reached. This issue demonstrates that a holistic strategic plan including proper and equal consultation with each of the stakeholders is required to ensure that Valletta continues to offer a satisfying experience to every person living, working, and visiting the city. Description: M.A.(Melit.) Mon, 01 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145289 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145183 Title: Investigating the blind and visually impaired visitors' experience at St John's Co-Cathedral, Malta Abstract: This dissertation investigates the museum experience of St John’s Co-Cathedral, Valletta, Malta, for blind and visually impaired visitors. To understand the current tourism product offered by St John’s Church and Museum, the research methodology used is of a qualitative nature. The readiness of St John’s Co-Cathedral Church and Museum was investigated how blind and visually impaired visitors are accommodated. A qualitative methodology was applied, using ethnographic and case study elements. This study examines, as an ethnography, the lived experiences of the blind and visually impaired visitors at St John’s, through interviews, observations, and participation. St John’s corporate approach of its Church and Museum, towards the blind and visually impaired visitors is analysed in a case study setting, aiming to discover potential gaps between theory and practice. The aspect of a case study included semi-structured interviews with staff and clergy, observations on the work floor, participation as a sighted visitor, content analysis of the museum’s website and brochures, its website accessibility for the blind and visually impaired, while other matters such as accessibility issues, the tactile environment, on-site audio guides, and assistive technologies were assessed too. The findings shed light on the needs of the blind and visually impaired visitors and the current state of St John’s Museum preparedness, while offering recommendations for enhancing accessibility, ensuring equitable engagement for all visitors of St John’s Co-Cathedral. Description: M.A.(Melit.) Mon, 01 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/145183 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/129587 Title: Investigating why the sultanate of Oman lacks in destination awareness compared to its neighbouring countries? Abstract: The Sultanate of Oman's breathtaking landscape, extensive cultural past, and range of tourism opportunities make it an ideal location for those looking to explore the Arabian Peninsula. Nevertheless, despite its ideal geographic location and the success of its neighboring countries in luring foreign tourists, Oman still lacks destination awareness. Oman has a lower level of destination awareness than its neighboring countries. The purpose of this study is to determine and explore the contributing components. In order to identify the important factors contributing to Oman's lack of destination awareness, this study will analyze secondary data. The study will examine potential reasons why Oman is not as well-known as its neighbors as a travel destination, such as advertising tactics and promotional initiatives. This dissertation will offer insights and suggestions for raising destination awareness in Oman based on the data. These suggestions could be for targeted advertising campaigns, online marketing strategies, collaboration with neighboring countries, or improvements to cultural exchange initiatives. The research findings will supplement existing knowledge about destination awareness and provide policymakers, tourism authorities, and industry stakeholders with helpful recommendations. Description: B.A. (Hons)(Melit.) Mon, 01 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/129587 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/129586 Title: Motivational factors in choosing Malta for gastronomic experiences Abstract: Many scholars and academics argue that food has potential to be a primary travel motif. This could be the case with a certain type of target market and countries with strong gastronomic practices and products. Moreover, Malta’s government entity for tourism wants to strengthen the country’s gastronomic experiences, as well as its sustainability practices. This dissertation researches the different motivations of gastronomy experiences in Malta. Using quantitative data from fifty respondents, the study investigates the impact of age, gender, and nationality on tourists' motivations and behaviours connected to gastronomy experiences. The findings show a wide demographic profile, with leisure and relaxation emerging as the major reason for visiting Malta, followed by cultural discovery and culinary experiences, especially among older travellers. While many tourists equate gastronomic experiences with sampling local cuisine, preferences for eating settings and food-related activities differ, especially between the different ages. Furthermore, the study sheds light on the importance of online information in decision-making, as well as the problems that local stakeholders confront when sourcing and promoting real local produce for gastronomical tourism. Despite tourists' favourable perceptions of the authenticity and sustainability of Maltese cuisine, there are differences between perceived authenticity and the actuality of their experiences whilst in Malta. This dissertation also calls for more research into the effects of age and gender on gastronomic tastes, the effectiveness of internet information in influencing gastronomic decisions, the problems of getting local produce for gastronomy tourism, and cultural conceptions of gastronomic authenticity. Addressing these research gaps allows stakeholders to improve the gastronomy experience in Malta while promoting cultural understanding through the language of food and increasing local sustainable practices. Description: B.A. (Hons)(Melit.) Mon, 01 Jan 2024 00:00:00 GMT https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/129586 2024-01-01T00:00:00Z