An Investigation of Tourism Planning Challenges in Bethlehem/Palestine

Tourism is one of the most important areas that assist countries regarding the advancement of the economy, and it is a phenomenon that affected by many factors that may contribute to its development or deterioration. Since peace, security, and development can result to the advancement of the region and country; on the contrary, war, conflicts and terrorism can lead to tarnishing the image of the destination and dwindling tourist flow. Palestine has been a touristic country throughout the ages, especially for religious or medicinal purposes. The city of Bethlehem, which is the symbol of peace and coexistence, has suffered from wars and political conflicts that led to the distortion of the tourist image in the last 70 years. This study aims to investigate the planning challenges facing the city of Bethlehem regarding its tourism growth and development. The study will present the tourism situation in Palestine in general and Bethlehem in particular, including the social and demographic characteristics of the city, and the extent of the government's shortcomings pertaining tourism planning and development. For the purpose of this study, a qualitative method was used. The information was gathered and analyzed by interviewing 20 respondents working in the tourism field who have sufficient experience regarding tourism in the city of Bethlehem. The study revealed that the Israeli occupation is the main factor that inhibits the proper planning and development of tourism sector. Such policy has resulted in neglecting various attractions to deteriorate. Study also revealed that the absence of an adaptive planning system has resulted in inadequate and dilapidated, which coupled with centralized administrative system. Moreover, the lack of trained human resource is also affected the reasonable growth and development of tourism. Suggestions and solutions to improve the tourism sector is also elaborated. Limitations and pathway for future studies is also discussed.