Evaluation of Alaçatı (Çeşme/Izmir) tourism in aspect of sustainable tourism principles and indicators

The purpose of this master's thesis is to determine the degree of compliance of Alaçatı (Çeşme/İzmir) with sustainable tourism principles and indicators and to contribute it to the future in a sustainable way. Qualitative research method was used in the thesis study. Literature review, translation, field studies, observation and individual interview were used in the collection of the data. The individual interviews are based on the "structured interview" scheme of the interview technique and the questions are predefined. For the 10 managers and 6 tourism actors, different questions were prepared and negotiations were held. In this context, Alaçatı was first analyzed according to international sustainability standards, then comments were made and suggestions were made to complete the deficiencies and correct the mistakes. According to findings; the importance of education in the enterprises in Alaçatı is given. Operators are helping to promote tourism. Hotel booking sites and social media reviews are taken into account in measuring tourist satisfaction. As for the recruitment of the personnel, locals and settlers are also preferred. There is no gender discrimination for employees. Local products are preferred for food. It has been faithful to the local residential architecture. Original and local preferences are made in subjects such as design, decoration, food types. Managers are sensitive to cultural-history protection efforts and are sensitive to their district, outside their own domains. There is no understanding of taking measures against air, soil and water pollution, producing solutions. There is no serious application for water and energy issues in saving measures. Managers prefer eco-friendly building materials. The use of renewable energy sources is limited. Local residents of Alaçatı are satisfied with the economic returns and business opportunities of tourists and tourism. However, they are dissatisfied with negative situations such as the occasional disputes and the noise problem. Settlers and tourists lead causes to significant changes. Tourism affects cultural heritage positively. Public awareness and informing activities about tourism are carried out by the ministry of tourism/government and governership and NGOs. Many activities are carried out in order to contribute to the sustainability of tourist satisfaction. Positive opinions about coastal cleanliness and sea water quality are dominant. In general, tourism has created positive economic effects. The use of renewable energy in tourist facilities is very limited. In terms of global warming and climate change, there isn't any implementation except the use of renewable energy and recycling. There is no serious problem in terms of disposal of sewerage, solid waste and air pollution. Apart from environmental pollution and traffic problems that are experienced in summer months, the only major problem is noise. The spatial development of tourism is planned. Innovations for tourism are in the field of facilities, food and sports. Alaçatı has a strong image and brand and fairs are used for presentation. Problems such as overcrowding, excessive number of hotels, noise, high cost, illegal licenses and deficiency in service quality are expressed as weaknesses.