Elaboration and Presentation of a Model for the Sustainable Development of Tourism Destinations with a Focus on Peri-Urban Spaces (Case Study: Mashhad’s Countryside)

Abstract

Today, the tourism industry, as an economic driver and engine of societal development, experiences high mobility in economic, political, social, urban, and environmental changes. This research aims to clarify and present a model for the sustainable development of tourist destinations with a focus on the peri-urban spaces of Mashhad City. Fourteen indicators were used to assess the spatial planning for sustainable tourism development among peri-urban spaces to present the research model. The necessary data was collected through field visits using questionnaires. The research results show that the spatial planning dimensions and indicators are effective in explaining the sustainable development of tourist destinations. The selected indicators, considering the conditions and requirements of the regions, can be tested and implemented in similar villages. Therefore, the most important factor in the process of spatial planning for sustainable development of peri-urban tourist destinations is, first, identifying the location's (environmental and physical) potential, including a variety of natural attractions, the quality of attractions, the location of attractions, the human dimension (socio-cultural) including cultural and political, community participation and education, the activity dimension (functions) including accommodation, hospitality, service distribution, and information, investment, employment, and income generation.