Connections and conflicts in tourism development in the second half of the 20th century : insights from Malta

Abstract

Tourism builds relationships. In that process, connections are created, nurtured and developed. In parallel, conflicts arise. Destinations that experience an excessive population density and high tourism intensity, as in the case of Malta, are more prone to tighter connections and tougher conflicts. This chapter explores and reflects on connections and conflicts that arose as Malta developed its tourism activity in the second half of the 20th century. It provides a brief overview of Malta’s tourism evolution during the last four decades of the 20th century. It then identifies and discusses the three key connections built during this period to stimulate tourism (connection with the past and the land; connection with market players; connection with the community). Related conflicts (resource conflict; the lure of mass tourism vs other forms of tourism; national interest vs private interest) are explored. The chapter concludes with reflections on these connections and conflicts in view of future tourism development.