The FAS Model

Abstract

Destination management is in urgent need of analytical and policy tools, and even more so in the context of tourism for development programs. Understanding both structural elements and dynamic processes are essential. This chapter describes a model of destinations which considers three types of structural components: factors/resources, attractors (of tourism demand), and support systems. It analyzes as well the optimizing behavior of destination stakeholders, both endogenous and exogenous, as a way to understand destination dynamics. The model can be applied in the strategic positioning of destinations as well as in achieving competitiveness and sustainability—ultimately contributing to development—through tourism policy plans and governance processes. The model was born in the context of a European Eureka–ComTur research project, and has been tested in a variety of destinations.

Citation

Fayos-Solà, E., Fuentes Moraleda, L. and Isabel Muñoz Mazón, A. (2014), "The FAS Model", Tourism as an Instrument for Development: A Theoretical and Practical Study (Bridging Tourism Theory and Practice, Vol. 5), Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 55-86. https://doi.org/10.1108/S2042-144320140000006012