Executive Summary
The COVID-19 pandemic has forced everyone to rethink their business activities. Due to being distant from crowded cities, rural tourism destinations have become getaway places, with some counties in rural Ohio experiencing an influx of tourists. This study addresses responses from key stakeholders of tourism and tourism development activities in two counties in southeastern Ohio, part of the Appalachian region. Their perceptions of the impacts of the pandemic on local tourism and tourism activities were examined using a qualitative approach. Findings suggested both positive and negative impacts of COVID-19, showing the challenges faced, and the strategies used during the pandemic. The study suggests that community support and partnerships are essential in leveraging the growth opportunities presented by the pandemic to rural tourism.
Recommended Citation
Lopez Llantuy, Nikol and Chen, Sandy
(2023)
"Crisis and Revitalization of Rural Tourism in the Appalachian Region Amidst The Pandemic: The Perspective of Key Stakeholders,"
ICHRIE Research Reports: Vol. 8:
Iss.
2, Article 2.
Available at:
https://via.library.depaul.edu/ichrie_rr/vol8/iss2/2
