Islands as party destinations, challenges & future prospects

Abstract

The purpose of this research paper is to uncover whether or not the festival scene in Malta is growing sustainably. This study addresses four research questions to do so: two are answered through existing literature, whereas the remaining two are answered using qualitative research to provide additional insight. Open ended interviews are utilised as the main method of acquiring data pertaining to the research gaps identified in this study. Furthermore, thematic analysis was used as the primary method to distinguishing similar and contrasting themes found in the interviews conducted. The findings and analysis of this study confirm that Malta has gained an increased reputation when it comes to festivals and events alike in comparison to other islands and locations in the Mediterranean. Nevertheless, stakeholder input leans towards unsustainable growth in the scene despite exponential growth over the past 10-15 years. Various limiting challenges relating to sustainability in the scene of festivals in Malta are identified amongst the opinions and beliefs of the relevant stakeholders. The conclusion and recommendations chapter rounds up all the information gathered through stakeholder input and existing literature and identifies potential implementable solutions to align the scene according to greater sustainability protocol.