Destination branding process: Akçakoca example

The main aim of this research is to investigate and evaluate whether Akçakoca district is considered as a destination and is suitable for branding in line with the opi-nions received from local government, tourism stakeholders and academicians. Four participants from local government, 13 from business managers and 6 from academi-cians were included in the research. Qualitative research method was applied in the research. Survey data were obtained by the results of the face-to-face interviews. The obtained data were analyzed by descriptive analysis technique. It has been determi-ned that Akçakoca, which is in integration with the historical, natural and cultural advantages in addition to sea-sand-sun advantages, is suitable for branding when the necessary promotional activities are completed. Keywords: Tourism, Destination, Destination marketing, Destination bran-ding, Brand