Exploring the Potentials of Agritourism; Evidence from North Cyprus

The purpose of the thesis is to determine the potentials of agritourism for the wellbeing of the local communities in North Cyprus. This study examines local people’s points of view about how agritourism activities and services can enhance the quality of life for the local community. In order to achieve the necessary information, the qualitative approach was conducted as a research methodology. The process of data collection was done through in-depth interviews among local farmers who live in rural areas of North Cyprus. According to data collection, agritourism activities created several potentials in North Cyprus as follow: First, the educational potential of agritourism can educate visitors about the consumption of organic and healthy food and increase awareness towards preserving rural heritage, culture, traditions, and natural resources. Second, the socio-economic potential of agritourism can enhance the standard of living for the local people. It can also increase income and create more job opportunities especially for women and enhance the social position of women in the community. Last, the potential of agritourism for environmental quality by increasing environmental awareness among visitors and several environmental-friendly practices.