Is the Revival of Maras a Viable Dark Tourism Destination: a View from Tourism Operators

Dark tourism, in the context of aforementioned statement, has become a new form of tourism, recent studies show that dark tourism or tourism based on suffering and death has a special place; despite the general fear of death, the interest of tourists to visit places that have experienced natural and manmade disasters is growing. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to examine the case of Maras (called also Varosha in Greek), which has been subject of discussion and debate for many years. The main research question was that is the revival of Maras a viable dark tourism destination. The method of the present research is qualitative. The statistical population of the study is experts. Sampling method in the present study is the purposeful sampling method. In the current study, the number of selected samples will be 15. In the present study, exploratory and semi-structured interview tools are used. Results of the research highlighted some important issues regarding dark tourism in the Maras. The findings can be used by politicians, managers, planners, governors and others working in this sector. Therefore we suggested the Reduce South Cyprus' opposition and propaganda by establishing agreements because it will happen in the near future and develop an agreement between Southern Cyprus and Northern Cyprus to use its interests equally.