The impact of mass tourism on the Maltese environment specifically within St. Julian's

Abstract

This dissertation explores the impact that mass tourism has on the Maltese environment. This study focuses on how mass tourism impacts St Julian's, a tourist-oriented area frequented by a constant stream of tourists all year round. In addition, this study strove to discover the benefits and drawbacks of this phenomenon. Structured interviews were conducted to cast light on the topic and to help the researcher meet the research objectives. The bulk of the interviews featured a SWOT analysis that gathered participants' views of the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats that mass tourism entails. The participants were general managers, human resources managers and head of departments who worked in different hotels, ranging from four star to a six-star hotel that is under construction, all of which are situated in St. Julian's. This dissertation explores the possible impacts that mass tourism has on the Maltese urban and natural environment. The study also puts forward recommendations that can enhance the sustainability of tourism in Malta. Quality tourism is promoted as a crucial factor in guaranteeing long-term sustainability.