How Online Tourist Rentals Affect Community Well-being: A Case Study of Barcelona

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Resident Perspective: The rapid increase in tourist rentals affects community cohesion, housing affordability, and neighborhood character. Residents often feel their needs are sidelined in favor of economic interests. The study highlights their desire for regulations that protect their quality of life, including restrictions on tourist accommodations and maintaining neighborhood spaces for locals. This perspective stresses the need for a balanced approach where tourism does not overpower the social fabric of residential areas. Policymaker Perspective: For cities reliant on tourism, this study underscores the importance of socially sustainable policies. Policymakers are encouraged to engage residents in decision-making, creating frameworks that manage tourism growth while preserving community stability. The study suggests that integrating resident feedback into policies can enhance local support for tourism and reduce resistance or "tourism-phobia," as seen in high-pressure destinations like Barcelona. Tourism Industry Perspective: The industry benefits from maintaining positive relations with local communities, as tourism’s long-term viability depends on its social acceptance. This perspective suggests that the industry should consider cooperative models with local communities and support policies that ensure a balanced tourism-resident relationship. Sustainable tourism practices that respect community needs are essential for the industry’s credibility and longevity. Sustainability Perspective: The study emphasizes that sustainable tourism must account for economic, environmental, and social dimensions equally. Social sustainability is especially crucial, as neglecting the community's well-being could lead to a fragile tourism model that ultimately undermines both economic and social goals. This perspective advocates for a holistic view of sustainability, where resident satisfaction is foundational to tourism's future success. Human Scale Development (HSD) Perspective: This study applies the HSD approach, which centers on human needs like protection, participation, and identity. This perspective provides a framework for balancing economic activities with community well-being, offering practical recommendations for creating a socially sustainable tourism model that can be applied to other urban areas experiencing similar pressures.

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