Exploring the effects of creative tourism on destination components

Creative tourism is an experiential tourism approach which is supported by learning activities for local, authentic and art values. Basic reasons to examine creative tourism as a tourism approach are the challenges related to commodification and standardization which are seen macro issues of destinations. Creative tourism is considered as a solution to these challenges. Destination components affected by creative tourism need to be determined to be able to develop creative tourism as a solution. Istanbul is seen as a destination which is convenient to examine creative tourism effects. Both intensity of creative values and number of researches about creative tourism in rural destinations indicate suitability of Istanbul as a case. It is seen very crucial to find solutions and strategies by means of exploring the effects of creative tourism on destination components in Grand Bazaar. This research consists of three sections. In the first section it is concentrated to examine creativity and creative tourism concepts in research framework. Second section contains destination concepts and components which are explored in the third section and explanations about İstanbul's creative tourism characteristics as the case of the study. In the last section research design and findings are clarified. This study is conducted by using qualitative method. According to findings creative tourism transforms tourism product and local people and as a result, it affects destination's components such as sustainability, competitiveness and marketing and branding. Additionally, participants' perceptions are also examined which reflect emerging risks and threats of creative tourism once it is developed in a destination. Lastly, participants' perceptions about suggestions about developing creative tourism is analyzed. For the conclusion section findings are interpreted and discussions are made.