Evaluation of destination image by local people and local authorities: An investigation in Çorum province

In this study, it has aimed to determine the perceived destination image of the local people and local authorities living in the province of Çorum. In this context, determine the participants' opinion and attitudes about the issue is constitutes the basic aim of this study. The local people and local authorities living in the central and in the areas with high tourism potential are involved to study content. In the study, questionnaire technique has used as data collection tool. The obtained data has been analized by statistic evaluation programme. The interwiew technique has also used to support the result of the study. In the result of the study, it has emerged that there is positive and significant correlation between each dimension forming the participants' destination image perception (economic factors, infrastructure facilities, environmental factors, natural and cultural attractions, tourism culture and promotion). According to the results of this study, destination image perception of local authorities is more positive and higher than local people's. Especially, it has emerged that local authorities have more positive image perception on natural and cultural attractions and infrastructure facilities than local people.