Attitudes and perceptions of heritage events as tourism attractions : the Cottonera community

Abstract

Events are increasingly being viewed and perceived as vital within the Tourism Industry. The purpose of this research is to analyse the attitudes, behaviours and perceptions towards what the community of Cottonera considers to be their heritage events. Hence, the study seeks to understand the social and cultural outcomes of heritage events through such perceptions. Each town and city of Cottonera has its own feasts and festivals that are promoted as well as tourist attractions. Attendees are not just the local residents but also tourists; therefore, it is of significance to understand the attitudes of the community towards tourists as well. Since this community has always been attached with a negative stigma due to issues like drugs and crime, then these people should be given the opportunity to be part in decision making especially relating to tourism. Primary data was collected through in-depth interviews, web survey and online-group on facebook. Indepth interviews provided an understanding of the community leaders whilst the survey was sent to the virtual communities from Cottonera that are found on facebook. The research revealed the importance of community-based tourism. It illustrated a Cottonera area as a tourism attraction not just for its fortifications and museums but also for its heritage events.