Destination image in the scope of faith tourism: The case of Trabzon city

Tourism has a great importance in the economies of the country and this importance is increasing day by day. The increasing importance of tourism, the consumers' seeking different tourism has revealed alternative types of tourism besides the sea-sand-sun trio. In this context, one of the alternative tourism types that come to the fore is faith tourism. In this study, it is aimed to learn the general status of belief tourism centers in Trabzon, its effect on tourists and the general image information of incoming tourists on the destination. The research consists of three parts. In the first part, the concepts of tourism and faith tourism are emphasized. The concepts of destination, destination image and image models constitute the second part. In the third and last part of the study, the characteristics of Trabzon province and belief centers evaluated within the scope of belief tourism in Trabzon province were included. In addition, in this section, the findings of the survey conducted to determine the perspectives of those who visit Trabzon within the scope of faith tourism are included. A total of 400 questionnaires were accepted as valid in the study. As a result of the research, a statistical package (SPSS) program used in Social Sciences was used for data analysis. The demographic characteristics of the participants, their statements measuring the Trabzon destination image status and potential were answered with a questionnaire. The data related to these expressions were analyzed by factor analysis and collected under four headings. Then, correlation analysis was used to measure the significance of these titles. As a result of the research, it has been revealed that Trabzon has a high potential for faith tourism and is an important destination for the participants. In general, a positive approach has been shown in terms of destination image. Some suggestions have been made to eliminate a number of negative situations, such as inadequate marketing and transportation and inadequate infrastructure, on the experience of participants in belief centers.