Regional Tourism Based On Strategic Planning: A Comparative Study Of: Hainan Province, China & Coastal Region, Syria

基于战略规划的区域旅游研究
——中国海南省与叙利亚沿海地区的比较
重庆大学硕士学位论文
（学术学位）
学生姓名：Bashar Dayoub
指导教师：杨培峰教授
专业：建筑学
学科门类：工学
重庆大学建筑城规学院
二 O 一四年五月
Regional Tourism Based on Strategic Planning
——A Comparative Study of: Hainan Province,
China & Coastal Region, Syria
A Thesis Submitted to Chongqing University
in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirement for the
Master’s Degree of Engineering
By
Bashar Dayoub
Supervised by Prof. Yang Peifeng
Specialty: Architecture
College of Architecture and Urban Planning of

Chongqing University , Chongqing, China
May, 2014
中文摘要
摘要
这是一个对叙利亚沿海地区和中国海南省的比较研究。通过这两个案例最终
推导出成功的区域旅游的整合模型。这两个研究案例虽然同样都是沿海地区，但
是存在着文化和游客数量的差异性。作为旅游的目的地，海南省承担更多的是国
际游客，而叙利亚承担更多的本土游客。
在对这两个地区的区域旅游的调查和分析中，叙利亚沿海地区过去十年的战
略规划和如何促进区域旅游规划的想法是不成熟的。同时，战略规划将对这两个
地区经济变化和游客流量以及其他区域发展项目等统计数据进行比较，来思考在
沿海地区在城市和区域规划、景观和天际线的不同之处
战略规划不仅要充分考虑旅游业的经济、环境、社会发展各个方面，还要考
虑基础设施建设、城市项目策划和旅游发展所需的健康的氛围。然而，战略规划
不能确保成功，但是通过动态，灵活和适应性强的规划过程提高成功的机会。提
供了一个对旅游开发方案决策过程的结果进行持续评估的共同的发展蓝图，以期
整合经济活动，城市和区域旅游的规划来促进未来旅游业的可持续发展。
最后，战略规划是一个包含经济、社会、文化、环境和居民之间相互合作共
赢的结果，政府各部门为了满足不同的群体需求进行预投入。旅游战略规划是基
于复杂的背景进行规划和实施。因此战略规划是在政府主持，管理和调控的基础
上进行实施的；发现新的挑战和问题并确保规划处于正确轨道上而没有偏离主目
标；更多的考虑公共利益而不是个人利益。
关键词：叙利亚沿海地区，海南省，战略规划，区域旅游，旅游规划，比较研究
I
重庆大学硕士学位论文
II
ABSTRACT
ABSTRACT
The research is a comparative study between Syrian Coastal Region and Hainan
Province, China. The two cases of tourism near the Sea to conclude an integrated model
of a successful regional tourism. Both case studies are coastal regions with many
similarities, also with many differences from the cultural aspect and number of tourists.
As Hainan depends more on international tourism than national one, this is the opposite
case of Syrian Cost Region which depends more on national tourism, as a national
tourism destination.
Investigation and analysis of the regional tourism in both regions-even this idea is
not developed yet in Syrian Coastal Region-focused on strategic plans in the last decade
and how they facilitate regional tourism in regions. Meanwhile, what strategic plans
translate to regional development projects in both regions considering economic
changes and tourists flows and some statistical data (number of tourists, number of
hotels, etc.) what differences occur on the coastal zone urban and regional planning,
landscape and skyline.
The strategic plan considers economic, environmental, social, and institutional
aspects of tourism development, by which provides the infrastructure, urban projects
and the healthy atmosphere needed for tourism development. Meanwhile, strategic
planning does not guarantee success but improves the odds of success, which could be
achieved through dynamic, flexible and adaptable planning process. Also, providing a
shared vision of tourism development scenarios with a continuous assessment of the
outcomes of the decision-making process, and anticipating the definition of a strategy
for sustainable tourism in order to integrate future tourism development with competing
economic activities, urban and regional planning.
As a result, the strategic plan is the umbrella which includes all aspects of
economic, social, culture and environmental lives, arrange, manage and cooperate with
each other in order to bring some outcomes which satisfy all different life needs
according to the sake of each sector and to the inputs provided. By which regional
tourism starts out of these context to exercise and practice its tasks. So the strategic plan
has to be provided by the government which controls, regulate and facilitate the
III
Chongqing University, MD Thesis
implementation of the plan objectives, discover the new challenges and problems to
keep the plan on the right track without deviation from the main objective, taking into
consideration the public interests which should not to be taken over by private interests.
Keywords: Syrian Coastal Region, Hainan Province, Strategic Plans,

Regional Tourism, Tourism Planning, Comparative Study.
IV
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
中文摘要..........................................................................................................................................I
ABSTRACT ............................................................................................................................... III
1 INTRODUCTION .............................................................................................................. 1
1.1 OVERVIEW.......................................................................................................................... 1
1.2 RESEARCH PROBLEM ...................................................................................................... 2
1.3 RESEARCH AIMS & OBJECTIVES................................................................................... 2
1.4 RESEARCH QUESTIONS ................................................................................................... 2
1.5 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY AND STRUCTURE ........................................................ 2
2 LITERATURE REVIEW .............................................................................................. 5
2.1 TOURISM DEVELOPMENT AND ECONOMIC GROWTH ............................................ 5
2.2 TOURISM GROWTH........................................................................................................... 6
2.3 TOURISM AND WORLD WIDE WEB............................................................................... 7
2.4 TOURISM IN OTHER WORDS .......................................................................................... 8
2.4.1 Tourism as a general term ......................................................................................... 8
2.4.2 Urban Tourism .......................................................................................................... 9
2.4.3 Rural Tourism ......................................................................................................... 10
2.4.4 Sustainable Tourism ................................................................................................ 10
2.4.5 Eco Tourism ............................................................................................................ 10
2.4.6 Mass tourism (MT) & conventional mass tourism .................................................. 11
2.4.7 Coastal mass tourism (CMT) .................................................................................. 12
2.5 TOURISM PLANNING ...................................................................................................... 12
2.5.1 Rationale of Tourism Planning................................................................................ 13
2.5.2 Integrated Tourism Planning ................................................................................... 15
2.5.3 Tourism Policy and Planning .................................................................................. 17
2.6 REGIONAL TOURISM ...................................................................................................... 18
2.6.1 Tourism region ........................................................................................................ 18
2.6.2 Development of Tourism Regions........................................................................... 18
2.6.3 History of Tourism Regions .................................................................................... 19
2.6.4 Recent developments ............................................................................................... 21
2.6.5 Regional Identity as a Marketing Tool .................................................................... 22
2.6.6 Sustainable Regional Development ......................................................................... 23
V
2.6.7 Non-government regions and eco-museums: .......................................................... 24

2.6.8 Analysis of RMP in regional tourism planning ....................................................... 24
2.6.9 Specialty regions: .................................................................................................... 25
2.7 DEFINING STRATEGY .................................................................................................... 25
2.7.1 Importance of strategic management ...................................................................... 26
2.8 STRATEGIC PLANNING ................................................................................................. 27
2.8.1 Strategic Planning Approach................................................................................... 27
2.8.2 Key components:..................................................................................................... 28
2.9 IMPACTS OF TRAVEL AND TOURISM ........................................................................ 30
2.9.1 Negative Impacts..................................................................................................... 30
2.9.2 Positive Impacts ...................................................................................................... 32
2.9.3 Other Impacts .......................................................................................................... 33
2.9.4 The Main Impacts and Challenges in Mediterranean.............................................. 33
2.10 TOURISM CARRYING CAPACITY ASSESSMENT.................................................... 35
2.11 CONVENTIONAL PLANNING VS. STRATEGIC PLANNING ................................... 35
2.12 LITERATURE REVIEW SUMMARY ............................................................................ 37
3 CASE STUDIES ................................................................................................................ 39
3.1 SYRIAN COAST REGION ................................................................................................ 39
3.1.1 Transportation ......................................................................................................... 40
3.1.2 Land Use/Land Cover Patterns ............................................................................... 41
3.1.3 Major problems and issues ...................................................................................... 42
3.1.4 Overview on Latakia ............................................................................................... 42
3.1.5 Overview on Tartous ............................................................................................... 48
3.2 HAINAN PROVINCE ........................................................................................................ 51
3.2.1 Overview on Hainan ............................................................................................... 51
3.2.2 Tourism-led land-use and environment changes in Hainan province ................................. 57
3.3 TOURISM, TOURISM DEVELOPMENT, URBAN DEVELOPMENT AND
STRATEGIC PLANS IN SYRIAN COAST REGION ...................................................... 58
3.3.1 Tourism ................................................................................................................... 58
3.3.2 Tourism Development ............................................................................................. 69
3.3.3 Urban development ................................................................................................. 72
3.3.4 Strategic plans ......................................................................................................... 75
3.3.5 Conclusion .............................................................................................................. 84
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
3.4 TOURISM, TOURISM DEVELOPMENT, URBAN DEVELOPMENT AND

STRATEGIC PLANS IN HAINAN PROVINCE ............................................................... 84
3.4.1 Tourism ................................................................................................................... 84
3.4.2 Tourism Development ............................................................................................. 89
3.4.3 Urban development ................................................................................................. 93
3.4.4 Strategic plans ......................................................................................................... 99
3.4.5 Conclusion............................................................................................................. 108
4 REGIONAL ANALYSIS RESULTS .................................................................. 109
4.1 INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................. 109
4.1.1 Location analysis ................................................................................................... 109
4.1.2 Economic and Industrial analysis .......................................................................... 111
4.1.3 Social analysis ....................................................................................................... 113
4.1.4 Climate Encompasses ............................................................................................ 114
4.1.5 Demographics........................................................................................................ 116
4.1.6 Number of Tourists ............................................................................................... 117
4.1.7 Seasonality ............................................................................................................ 118
4.1.8 Origin of Tourists .................................................................................................. 119
4.1.9 Purpose of Visit ..................................................................................................... 120
4.1.10 Hainan’s Airport .................................................................................................. 121
4.1.11 Star-Rated Hotels ................................................................................................ 121
4.1.12 Hotel Room and Bed Capacity ............................................................................ 122
4.1.13 Share of Arrivals in Star-rate Hotels ................................................................... 123
4.2 STRATEGIC PLANNING ................................................................................................ 125
4.2.1 Some of Urban Projects’ Plans in Hainan Province .............................................. 125
4.2.2 Some of Tourism Projects’ Plans in Syrian Coastal Region and Hainan Province136
4.2.3 Some Environmental Projects in Hainan Province................................................ 169
4.3 SUMMARY...................................................................................................................... 180
5 REASONS OF SUCCESS, CONCLUSIONS AND
RECOMMENDATIONS ........................................................................................... 183
5.1 THE REASON OF SUCCESS .......................................................................................... 183
5.1.1 Foreword ............................................................................................................... 183
5.1.2 China’s Hawaii? .................................................................................................... 184
5.1.3 Realizing Hainan’s Tourism Potential................................................................... 185
5.1.4 Executive Summary .............................................................................................. 188
VII
5.2 THE PROPOSED TOURISM STRATEGY IN THE SYRIAN COASTAL REGION .... 189
5.3 CONCLUSIONS AND GENERAL RECOMMENDATIONS ........................................ 195
5.3.1 Conclusions ........................................................................................................... 195
5.3.2 General recommendations ..................................................................................... 196
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS ............................................................................................... 203
REFERENCES ...................................................................................................................... 205
VIII
1 Introduction
1 Introduction
1.1 Overview
Tourism has become a major sector of economic activity worldwide, covering a
broad range of enterprises, areas and stakeholders. It is one of the largest and fastest
growing industries in the world: 4, 4 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) flows
directly from tourism, which employs over 235 million people (WTTC). A substantial
portion of GDP and employment, especially in developing countries, is related to
tourism. It is also one of the most ramified sectors of the global economy, covering a
broad range of enterprises, sectors and stakeholders. All the indications are that tourism
will continue growing in the years to come. With this growth, a diversification of
tourism products and destinations is taking place, with increased demand for nature-
related tourism. Tourists themselves are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their
demands, seeking more than pure leisure and relaxation.
Given these considerations, tourism is in a strategic position to make a positive
contribution to the regional development of local areas, both as an effective
conservation tool, and as a successful community development model. At the sure time,
however, fit also presents challenges. In fact, if the tourist industry is not subjected
to clear rules and standards, fit can have negative impacts on local regional
development . In order to achieve positive outcomes fit is necessary to set up policies
that consider all the implications both negative and positive that tourism has on the
economic, social, cultural and environmental side, seizing the opportunities that tourism
can bring, and minimizing its potentially adverse effects.
The idea of tourism evolved during the last three decades, from beach and sea
tourism to cultural tourism to business and shopping tourism, to nowadays Regional
Tourism. While, many regions recognized that kind of tourism and make strategies to
fulfill tourist desires, other regions still continue the traditional kind of tourism.
There is an evitable tendency in a local community to replace traditional
productive activities with tourism. As soon as it becomes apparent that tourism is
significantly more profitable than traditional industries, mainly agriculture and forestry,
other activities and farming are frequently abandoned and they eventually deteriorate or
are lost.
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1.2 Research Problem

While Syrian Coastal Region has good potentials to compete in the tourism
industry (culture, climate, history, sea, opportunities for investment because of cheap
labor and land compared to China) still regional tourism is not recognized in Syrian
Coastal Region, by which Coastal Region is not the most popular touristic destination.
The problem can be summed, “Syrian Coastal Region is not a successful regional
tourism destination considering all the potentials and assets it has”.
Hypothesis
Syrian Coastal Region could be a popular tourist destination with its potentials,
while Hainan, China’s advanced & successful position in regional tourism as a
“definite” tourist destination. The research will try to learn from Chinese experience to
improve the Coast of Syria.
1.3 Research aims & objectives

The research main aim is to learn from the Chinese case study. How regional
tourism developed in Hainan, investigate and analyze strategic plans and statistics, to
use in the Coast of Syria.
Beside the research main aim there are some other objectives which could be
illustrated as following:
1) Find a definition for regional tourism.
2) Understand how strategic planning can help develop regional tourism.
3) Suggest an executive plan to develop regional tourism in Syrian Coast Region.
1.4 Research questions

Main question
1) Why and how regional tourism in Hainan is a success experience?
Secondary questions
2) Which parts of Hainan’s regional tourism have been the most important for this
success (the big events)?
3) Have Strategic Planning played a big role in this success of regional Tourism in
Hainan?
1.5 Research methodology and structure

So far, the research will be divided to two main parts theoretical and analytical
parts within 4 main chapters plus the research conclusions and recommendations
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1 Introduction
chapter. With a qualitative framework, the research will deal with a mixed-methods-
research, where both qualitative and quantitative research techniques are combined
together to analyze qualitative and quantitative data.
On one hand a qualitative research, to identify subjectively a detailed description
about the past, present and future situation of regional tourism in the two case studies
with in deep research in strategic plans and tourism using analysis of documents and
materials (SWOT Analysis). On the other hand a quantitative research, to classify and
count features to construct statistical models to explain what is observed using and
analyzing statistical data.
The research will be presented as following
The Theoretical part contains three chapters as following:
Chapter one: overview, research problem, questions and objectives, methodology
and structure.
Qualitative data
Chapter two: Literature review, Tourism Development and Economic Growth,
Tourism Growth, Tourism and World Wide Web, Tourism as a general term, Regional
Tourism, Urban Tourism, Rural Tourism, Sustainable Tourism, Eco Tourism,
Sustainable Regional Development, Tourism Policy and Planning, Rational Of Tourism
Planning, Integrated Tourism Planning, Tourism region, Defining strategy, Strategic
planning, Strategic Planning Approach,
Importance of strategic management, The Main Impacts And Challenges In
Mediterranean, Mass Tourism (MT) & Conventional Mass Tourism, Coastal Mass
Tourism (CMT), Impacts of Travel and Tourism, Tourism Carrying Capacity
Assessment, Conclusion: Conventional planning Vs. Strategic Planning.
Chapter three: Introduces the two case studies, regional tourism and strategic
planning in Hainan Province and Syrian Cost Region, and how tourism evolved during
the last period.
While the Analytical part contains two chapters as following:
Quantitative data
Chapter four: Presenting the results of the analysis process.
Chapter five: Answering the research question, and finally some
recommendations and conclusions.
3
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2 Literature Review
2 Literature Review
It is widely acknowledged that planning is crucial to successful tourism

development and management; and planning has been a widely adopted principle in
tourism development at both regional and national levels (Inskeep, 1991; World
Tourism Organization, 1994). Arguably, the merits of planning can only be possible
given that a plan can be implemented in the first place. As such, experts suggest
implementation be considered in the planning process; and a plan be practically made
for this purpose (Cooper, Gilbert, Fletcher, & Wanhill, 1993; Gunn, 2002; Inskeep,
1991; McIntosh, Goeldner, & Ritchie, 1995; Shepherd, 1998; Veal, 2002).
Ideally, a plan should be implemented as planned. In practice, however, planners
are frequently challenged by the fact that their choices ‘‘are nuanced and have to
balance idealism with pragmatism ’’ (Burns, 2004). This situation creates a gap between
planning and implementation, and has led to the failure of tourism plans. For instance,
studies have recorded the failure of tourism development plans caused by lack of
analytical details or miscalculations regarding the control of land usage (Cooper et al.,
1993; Shepherd, 1998), the failure of central planning caused by lack of community
involvement (Tosun & Jenkins, 1996), as well as mismatch between central planning
and local possibilities (Burns & Sancho, 2003).
2.1 Tourism Development and Economic Growth

Tourism development can have positive economic effects on local economies, and
a visible impact on national GDP growth. It can be also an essential component for both
economic development and poverty reduction. National development strategies must
therefore be developed with recognition that tourism plays an essential role in
improving the conditions of poorer segments of society. (John W. Ashe 2005).
Tourism brings economic development and the creation of direct and indirect jobs
in hotels, travel agencies, transport companies, restaurants, guides, show and
entertainment business, monuments, parks and other related sectors like insurance,
health, housing, human resources and training institutions. Tourism projects might be of
special relevance for coastal areas and island territories and to vulnerable rural or
mountain regions that might find in tourism a rare opportunity for development facing
the decline of their traditional economic activities. (Antonio de la Morena 2004).
5
2.2 Tourism Growth

The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) estimated that in 1999 travel and
tourism was direct and indirect responsible for generating the following synergies,
across the global economy:
1) 11% of GDP
2) 200 million jobs
3) 8% of total employment
4) 5.5 million new jobs per year until 2010
Tourism industry actually counts as one of the economic and social phenomena of
the last century and certainly will retain its position for centuries to come. World
tourism has traditionally been measured by international tourist arrivals and
international tourist revenues. Tourism has found a niche as an effective instrument for
generating employment, earning revenue and foreign exchange, enhancing environment
preserving culture and tradition, thereby facilitating the overall development.
Figure 2.1 International Tourist Arrivals by region (million) - Source:

World Tourism Organization (UNWTO)
Tourism is one of the world's largest and fastest growing industries. In 2000, there
were 699 million international tourist arrivals throughout the world, an increase of 7.4%
6
2 Literature Review
over the preceding year and international tourist receipts reached US $ 476 billion, a
4.5% increase from 1999. There has been also a strong growth in foreign travel to
developing countries during recent years and this trend is expected to continue. In the
last two decades, an increasing number of destination economies have come to rely on
the travel, tourism and hospitality industry. Economic diversification and technological
improvement have created a favourable environment for tourism development in the
present age of globalization.
Leisure, recreation and holidays still dominating the tourist arrivals as it represents
51% of the purpose of visit in the world according to 2010 statistics, while visiting
friends, health, religious and other purposes comes in the second rank with 27% then
business and professional arrivals with 15%, while 7% of the purposes are not specified.
Meanwhile, tourists who travel by air represent 51% due to the growth of many low
cost airlines which offer cheap flights sometimes cheaper than road and rail trips, as it is
expected to grow more in the coming years. Road travels come in the second place
with41% while tourists who travel by water represent 6% and by railways only 2%.
Figure 2.2 Inbound tourism by purpose of visit, 2010 - Source: World Tourism Organization (UNWTO)
2.3 Tourism and World Wide Web

The web fiction overcomes time and space barriers (Baum and Sigala, 2001).
Internet offers great flexibility to match the specific conditions of work within the
tourism and hospitality sector.
In the last decades with the generally use of internet resources, some places have
gained more visibility in the world. It is quite acceptable to argue that internet is
available especially in the develop countries and it is also truth that is a powerful
resource for research, commerce, or simply for entertainment.
7
In the especial case of tourism; development of the World Wide Web has been a
key factor for the development of the sector and the increase of travelling to places that
were until then almost unreachable or unknown. Web sites and other on-line
promotional activities allow entrepreneurs to appear to the tourists worldwide. This
factor can have spillover effects in activities related with tourism by promoting and
increasing the visibility in different web markets.
“Changes in communications and transportation, the key infrastructural
requirements for tourism
Development is instructive of the accelerated pace of globalization (…) for
developing countries, capturing these transnational and Trans local movements provides
an unprecedented opportunity to participate in the global market place. Clearly, the
Internet offers a unique digital opportunity to take advantage of these global flows, even
in the most remote parts of the world.”(Paula Uimonen).
2.4 Tourism in other words

2.4.1 Tourism as a general term
Pigram argues that tourism is a component of recreation, while Murphy counter-
argues that. Nonetheless Dan and Cohen note that there are scholars who adapt a more
eclectic stance, instead of being tied down by a specific theoretical approach. In this
manner Smith argues that researchers, international and national tourism associations,
business entities and government agencies give different definitions based on their own
perception and interest (Asian Social Science, vol. 5, No. 5, page 1).
Jafari defines tourism based on an anthropological point of view. “Tourism is the
study of man away from his usual habitat, of the industry, which responds to his needs,
and of the impacts that both he and the industry have on the host’s socio-cultural,
economic, and physical environments”. On the other hand Murphy defines tourism as
“the sum of … the travel of non-residents (tourists, including excursionists) to
destination areas, as long as their sojourn does not become a permanent residence. It is a
combination of recreation and business” (Asian Social Science, vol. 5, No. 5, page 1).
“Any person residing within a country, irrespective of nationality, travelling to a
place within this country other than his usual place of residence for a period of not less
than 24 hours or one night for a purpose other than the exercise of a remunerated
activity in the place visited. The motives for such travel may be leisure (recreation,
holidays, health, studies, religion, sports); business, family, mission, meeting”
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2 Literature Review
While some researchers argue that tourism has a life cycle known as the “Tourism
life cycle” defined as:
“Tourism products, such as marketed and labeled destinations, tend to pass through
a life cycle that goes from a period of euphoria with large territorial transformation and
rapid environmental degradation, to a period when the product reaches its mature state
and environmental awareness evolves. Then, in the interim, sometimes pollution
problems become less important due to the investment in environmental equipment and
infrastructures to maintain what is called “environmental quality standards”. Finally,
more subtle conservation problems arise including loss of symbolic and cultural
landscapes and livelihoods” (Asian Social Science, vol. 5, No. 5, page 1).
Figure 2.3 Destination Life Cycle Model - Source: Destination Life Cycle Model
2.4.2 Urban Tourism

Tourism is “one among many social and economic forces in the urban
environment. It encompasses an industry that manages and markets a variety of
products and experiences to people who have a wide range of motivations, preferences
and cultural perspectives and are involved in a dialectic engagement with the host
community, “The outcome of this engagement is a set of consequences for the tourist,
the host community and the industry” (1st search results –understanding urban tourism
impacts, an Australian study, Page 2).
9
2.4.3 Rural Tourism

The rural tourism is not a recent phenomenon, if regarding to the time that the only
kind of accommodation available in rural areas were lodgings. The natural exploitation
of protected areas though has become common practice and as a consequence of that
owners have increased the quality level of accommodations associated with these areas.
Rural tourism involves tourists witnessing or participating in activities that form
the core of country life such as farming (synonyms: farm tourism, agro tourism).
Loosely defined it can encompass any activity that takes place in a nonurban, populated
area. With farm incomes falling in many developed, but also developing countries, and
people migrating to cities, rural tourism is often seen by planners as a magic wand to
stop rural decay.
2.4.4 Sustainable Tourism
Sustainable tourism is tourism that minimizes the costs and maximizes the benefits
of tourism for natural environments and local communities, and can be carried out
indefinitely without harming the resources on which it depends.
Environmentally responsible travel and visitation to natural areas, in order to enjoy
and appreciate nature (and any accompanying cultural features, both past and present) in
a way that promotes conservation, has a low visitor impact, and provides for
beneficially active socio-economic involvement of local peoples. (World Conservation
Union, 1996)
Often, discussions of sustainability are presented within the context of stability,
particularly about communities (defined in a territorial versus an interest sense). We
generally want our communities to be stable and predictable and to provide a sense of
belonging. Sustainability goes beyond economic considerations and biophysical issues;
it must deal with important concepts of social order, such as hierarchy, territory, and
norms (Burch and DeLuca 1984).
2.4.5 Eco Tourism
Eco-tourism focuses on local cultures, wilderness adventures, and new ways to live
on our vulnerable planet. It is classically defined as travel to destinations where the
flora, fauna, and cultural heritage are the primary attractions. Responsible ecotourism
includes programs that minimize the adverse effects of traditional tourism on the natural
environment, and enhance the cultural integrity of local people. Therefore, in addition to
evaluating environmental and cultural factors, initiatives by hospitality providers to
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2 Literature Review
promote recycling, energy efficiency, water reuse, and the creation of economic
opportunities for local communities are an integral part of ecotourism.
Michael J. Stone cites Ceballos-Lascurian where it defines eco-tourism as: “(…)
environmentally responsible travel and visitation to relatively undisturbed natural areas,
in order to enjoy and appreciate nature (and any accompanying cultural features (both
past and present) that promotes conservation, has low visitor impact, and provides for
beneficially active socio-economic involvement of local populations”(Ceballos-
Lascurain, 1993).
Outdoor recreation, natural, historical and cultural resources are increasingly
important attractions for travelers. Ecotourism is an environmentally responsible form
of travel in which the focus is to experience the natural areas and culture of a region
while promoting conservation and economically contributing to local communities
(Adventure Travel Society, 1994).
TIES (The International Ecotourism Society) define ecotourism as "responsible
travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the well-being of
local people. “This means that those who implement and participate in ecotourism
activities should follow the following principles:
① Minimize impact
② Build environmental and cultural awareness and respect
③ Provide positive experiences for both visitors and hosts
④ Provide direct financial benefits for conservation
⑤ Provide financial benefits and empowerment for local people
⑥ Raise sensitivity to host countries' political, environmental, and social climate
⑦ Support international human rights and labour agreements.
2.4.6 Mass tourism (MT) & conventional mass tourism
Mass tourism started when this activity was produced in a Fordism way, more or
less after the WWII or even before. Mass tourism is not only a massive number of
people but a way of producing tourism in an industrial model.
While Swarbrooke argued that, potentially sustainable tourism could become a
divisive force in society if there continues to be a value based distinction made between
‘good’ tourism (the so-called alternative forms of tourism) and ‘bad’ tourism (mass
tourism) (Swarbrooke, J. (1999). Sustainable tourism management. Wallingford, UK:
CABI, Tracy Berno and Kelly Bricker, 2001, page 11, International Journal of
Economic Development 3,3, 2001, pp.). He claimed mass tourism as bad tourism
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regarding to all its bad effect on the environment which clarify to be more sustained.
Mass tourism had emerged as a result of social advances such as paid leave, women in
the workforce, flexi-time and transport advances such as the wide bodied jet.
2.4.7 Coastal mass tourism (CMT)
Coastal areas experience intense pressure in the high seasons of tourism when
millions of people move to coastal areas specially to spend their vacations in summer,
as this phenomenon is going to increase in the coming years, the fear of the coastal mass
tourism impacts increase. Meanwhile many precautions are taken to decrease and
minimize those impacts through different ways, for example Integrated Coastal Zone
Management and sustainable tourism (Bill Bramwell, 2004. Coastal Mass Tourism:
Diversification and Sustainable Development in Southern Europe).
2.5 Tourism Planning

Tourism planning has evolved from two related but distinct sets of planning
philosophies and methods. Tourism is an activity that must be considered as part of
physical, environmental, social, and economic planning. Therefore, tourism is
commonly addressed in a regional land use, transportation, recreation, economic
development, or comprehensive plan. The degree to which tourism is addressed in such
plans depends upon the relative importance of tourism to the community or region and
how sensitive the planning authority is to tourism activities.
Figure 2.4 Traditional Scheme of Tourism Planning

Source: Baud -Bovy (1985, quoted by Moniz, 1996:37)
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2.5.1 Rationale of Tourism Planning

Planning, in its broadest definition, is a highly formalised and disciplined
activity through which society induces changes in itself. It is a goal-directed decision-
making process. It therefore involves an ability to anticipate future events, a
capability for analysing and evaluating situations, and a capacity for innovative
thinking in order to derive satisfactory solutions.
While Program means a planned series of future events, it has a sequence
of things to do, instruments and actors with responsibilities; and Project is a Strategical
sub system aiming specific objectives of the Plan and it makes the Plan more flexible
and more suitable for proper model of problem solving.
Tourism planning applies the same basic concepts and approaches as general
planning, but adapted to attributes of the tourism system.
Tourism develops for a variety of reasons. First of all, it develops because of its
economic benefits of generating wealth, creating employment. It leads to community
development, the development of arts and crafts within a destination, conservation of
natural and historical sites, etc. In its best form, tourism provides recreational, cultural
and commercial facilities and services for use by both residents and tourists that may
not have been developed without tourism. It also provides an opportunity to educate
people about other cultures and environments.
On the other hand, the negative impacts of tourism, like extensive social and
environmental damage, cannot be ignored. For countries that do not yet have much
tourism, planning can provide the necessary guidance for its development. For those
places that already have some developed tourism, planning is often needed to
revitalise or redevelop the sector and maintain its future viability. The good planning of
tourism and its management are essential in order to maximise the positive
benefits of tourism and minimise negative impacts in a sustainable manner.
According to Inskkeep (E. (1991), Tourism Planning: An Integrated and
Sustainable Development Approach, John Wiley and Sons, Toronto), tourism planning
is necessary for the following reasons:
Modern tourism is still a relatively new type of activity in many areas, and
some governments and private sectors have little or no experience in how to
properly develop it. A tourism plan and development program can provide guidelines
for developing this sector;
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Tourism is a complicated, multi-sectoral, and fragmented activity, involving

other sectors such as agriculture, fisheries and manufacturing, historic, park and
recreational features, various facilities and services, transportation and other
infrastructure. Planning ensures that all these elements are developed in an
integrated manner;
Much of tourism is essentially selling a product of an experience comprised
of visitor use of certain facilities and services;
Tourism can bring various direct and indirect economic benefits, and
generate various socio-cultural benefits;
Planning is necessary to determine the optimal type and level of tourism that won't
have negative impacts;
Planning can be used to revitalise existing outmoded or badly developed tourism
areas;
Planning enables education and training;
Planning provides a rational basis for development staging and project
programming, which are important for both the public and private sectors utilised in
their investment planning.
Although not always possible to achieve, the planning process should be prepared
in sequence from the general to the specific, because general levels provide the
framework and guidance for preparing specific plans. Tourism should first be planned at
the national and regional levels. At these levels, planning is concerned with tourism
development policies, facility standards, structural plans, institutional factors and all the
other elements necessary to develop and manage tourism. Then, more detailed plans for
tourist attractions, resorts, urban, rural and other forms of tourism development can be
prepared. There are several important specific benefits of undertaking national and
regional tourism planning.
Tourism planning should be recognised as a continuous, flexible, adaptive
and transparent process. Within the framework of the policy and plan recommendations,
there must be flexibility to allow for adaptation to changing circumstances. Planning for
tourism development should make recommendations that are imaginative and
innovative, but they must also be feasible to implement. The various techniques of
implementation should be considered throughout the planning process.
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Figure 2.5 The components of the tourism planning process- Source: K. Andriotis
2.5.2 Integrated Tourism Planning

The standard definition of “integration” states that it is the process of
bringing together separate components in the form of a functional whole that
involves coordination of interventions. Planning is a major instrument for integration. It
implies a comprehensive and integrated approach which recognises that all
development sectors and supporting facilities and services are interrelated with
each other and with the natural environment and society of the area. An adoption of an
integrated management approach will prevent ad hoc and incompatible developments
and yield many benefits. In the case of tourism development, it is obvious that an
integrated approach can augment the environmental, economic and social benefits of
tourism and enable the identification and resolution of conflicts over resource use.
Many aspects of integration are known and should be taken in consideration,
namely: (SusTEn Mechanism), (2011)
Geographical: integration of different territorial units, for example, land and sea,
or coast and hinterland;
Systemic: the need to ensure that all important interactions and issues are taken
into consideration;
Functional: interventions by sectorial management bodies must be harmonised
with the wider management objectives and strategies;
Policy: sectorial management policies, strategies and plans have to be incorporated
into the overall development policies, strategies and plans;
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Interdisciplinary: disciplines should transcend sectorial boundaries; - vertical:

integration among institutions and administrative levels within the same sector;
Horizontal: integration among various sectors at the same administrative level;
Planning: among plans at various spatial levels, plans must not have conflicting
objectives, strategies or planning proposals;
Temporal: coordination among short-, medium- and long-term plans and
programs.
According to UNWTO (Basic concepts of Tourism Satellite Account, 1994),
tourism should be viewed as an interrelated system of demand (international tourist
markets, domestic tourist markets, and residents’ use of tourist attractions, facilities and
services) and supply (attractions and activities, accommodation, other tourist facilities
and services, transportation and other infrastructure) factors. Very often, it is the driving
force for the development of other sectors in a certain area, or a force that may stimulate
territorial integration over a wider area. As an interrelated system, it is important that
tourism planning aims at integrated development of all these parts of the system,
both the demand and supply factors and the physical and institutional elements. The
system will function much more effectively and bring the desired benefits if it is
planned in an integrated manner, with coordinated development of all the
components of the system.
Equally as important as planning for integration within the tourism system is
planning for integration of tourism into the overall development policies, plans
and programs of a country or region. Planning for this external integration may,
for example, help resolve any potential conflicts over use of certain resources or
locations for various types of development which are central to some other element of
the economic or resource system. It also provides for the multiple use of expensive
infrastructure to serve general community needs as well as tourism.
Tourism planning can operate at many territorial levels, namely:
The individual site: for example a beach, a heritage site, a park or a theme park;
The destination: in some cases, the site and the destination may be the same, but
usually it refers to the larger geographical setting where the site is situated;
A region within a country: this can be a geographic or political boundary or it can
be based on tourism attraction factors;
The nation: especially true in the case of smaller island countries;
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Several countries: a good example is the area around the Mekong River that is
being presented as a theme-related destination involving several countries. (UNESCAP,
1996).
There should be integration within each of the levels and across all levels so as to
achieve balance, aesthetic harmony, cooperation, confidence (a prerequisite for
attracting investment), efficiency, identity, sensitivity and most importantly
sustainability. This fusion can be achieved through the preparation of an integrated
tourism policy and plan. There are many examples which show varying degrees of
integration in tourism planning. Thus, for instance, in the USA, there is very little
coastal tourism planning at the federal government level. At the state level, departments
of tourism have enjoyed great success boosting tourism through advertising strategies.
However, most state tourism departments have yet to complement the marketing of
tourism with the monitoring and assessment of coastal tourism’s effects on the
environment and quality of life. At the local level, many city governments have utilised
their planning departments to recommend approaches to issues related to public use of
the shoreline and natural resources.
2.5.3 Tourism Policy and Planning
For instance, Europe requires holistic approach to the planning and development of
destinations for sustainable tourism, both in terms of providing a quality experience for
visitors and addressing all the impacts of tourism.
There should be concern about physical infrastructure, destination marketing and
information services, linkages with other economic sectors, and relationships with the
various forms of tourism.
The important role of local authorities in supporting the development and
management of sustainable tourism, including ecotourism, is well understood in Europe.
Local democratic structures are an advantage for effective land use planning and
development control processes, unlike other countries in the world that have strong
tourism resources but lack democracies. At the same time the need to foster a
participative approach at a local level.
According to C. Shafer facilities and programs development, can change positively
personal income and taxes revenues by providing more opportunities for local
populations.
Pearce on the other hand defends that evaluations at earlier stages of development
can check progress and provide critical planning direction. Help to find a path that
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promotes the development of symbiotic tourism-park-community relationships. The

capacity of such frameworks to be used to evaluate the status of tourism development at
a site, in any stage, suggests they can play an essential monitoring role, which has
traditionally been a very much neglected component of planning processes (Pearce,
2000).
A sustainable development, and common to most “alternative’” forms of tourism
including ecotourism, was an emphasis on participatory approaches and a concern for
conservation. This presented planners with a new and significant challenge (Gunn, 1991
cited in Michael J. Stone 2002).
2.6 Regional Tourism

Is a tourism activity which is concentrated to a certain region and would involve
tourism in this region alone? It means advertising or visiting a given region rather than a
specific town or site. A tourism region may be designated by a government or simply a
tourism bureau as having some kind of common characteristics, usually cultural,
historical, or geographical..... .
2.6.1 Tourism region
A tourism region is a geographical region that has been designated by a
governmental organization or tourism bureau as having common cultural or
environmental characteristics. These regions are often named after historical or current
administrative and geographical regions. Others have names created specifically for
tourism purposes. The names often evoke certain positive qualities of the area and
suggest a coherent tourism experience to visitors. Countries, states, provinces, and other
administrative regions are often carved up into tourism regions. In addition to drawing
the attention of potential tourists, these tourism regions often provide tourists who are
otherwise unfamiliar with an area with a manageable number of attractive options.
Some of the more famous tourism regions based on historical or current
administrative regions include Tuscany in Italy and Yucatán in Mexico. Famous
examples of regions created by a government or tourism bureau include the United
Kingdom's Lake District and California's Wine Country.
2.6.2 Development of Tourism Regions
Tourism scholar Jaarko Saarinen has identified a "discourse of region" in which a
region's social and geographical qualities are combined with familiar and traditional
representations of the region. The resulting discourse is "produced and reproduced" in
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the form of advertisements, travelogues, and regional literature, as well as in the larger
media. Most tourism regions belong to a larger economic and administrative unit which
takes on the role of developing the discourse of the tourism region into a marketable
product. According to Saarinen, once the discourse of a tourism region has been
established, the parent region helps shape further development of the area as a tourism
region. This earlier period is characterized by rapid development, construction,
investment in greater advertising, and increasing tourism. Eventually, if the region
becomes successful as a tourism region, a mature stage in the development of a tourism
region is reached where the "meaning and history of the destination are continually
produced anew" in cycles of decline, reinvention, growth, and stability.
2.6.3 History of Tourism Regions
18th and 19th Centuries
Historically, tourism regions often developed in areas widely considered to a of
historical, cultural, or natural importance such as the Niagara Falls region of New York
and Canada, the Lake District of England, the French Riviera and the Italian Riviera.
Others developed around specific attractions such as a major city, i.e. Paris, or a
monument such as the Pyramids of Giza. Tourist regions have existed for thousands of
years for relaxation and leisure as well as for religious expression. The ancient Romans
visited the hot springs of Bath in Roman Britain while Santiago de Compostela was a
site of mass Christian pilgrimage supported by a major medieval tourism industry that
provided travelers with accommodations along their pilgrimage route.
The modern tourism region emerged out of the Industrial Revolution as cities grew
in size, pollution increased, and an expanding middle class possessed greater amounts of
disposable income. From the Enlightenment through the nineteenth century, the
fashionable Grand Tour of continental Europe for wealthy young men popularized the
idea of leisure travel. The popularity of the Grand Tour, combined with the stresses and
benefits of the Industrial Revolution, encouraged wealthy and middle-class European
and American families to explore leisure travel, though on a more local scale. These
families began frequenting seaside resorts known for their health benefits such as the
Roman resort town of Bath, particularly during hotter months that left industrializing
cities extremely unpleasant.
The development of faster methods of transportation during the nineteenth century
allowed tourists to travel greater distances in smaller periods of time. This period also
saw the "seaside" developed as a "spatial area for 'mass tourism,'” a phenomenon that
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resulted in the development of specific coastal areas as tourist regions. Among elite
groups in the nineteenth century, "the mountains" also became increasingly popular in
the winter months; the most popular of these regions was Tyrol in Austria. Tourism
regions were often subject to downward mobility as areas frequented by the upper class
such as the Catskill Mountains of New York and Bath in England were abandoned by
wealthier visitors when they became too popular with the middle class.
The romantic movement of the 19th century encouraged the appreciation of the
natural world, leading to the explosion in popularity of scenic tourism regions such as
the English Lake District and the Niagara Falls region. According to Peter Murphy,
"increased competition" encouraged private development of hotels, resorts, and
entertainment facilities as well as "municipal investment in parades, parks, piers, and
baths." These trends marked an important intervention of the state into the evolution of
tourism regions.
20th Century
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, governments increasingly took a role in
encouraging the development of tourism regions. Federal and state governments in the
United States, with the encouragement of conservation groups, and European countries
and their colonies began setting aside areas as parks, monuments, and trails for
preservation and future enjoyment. Some of these, such as Niagara Falls, were existing
tourism regions while parks such as Yellowstone National Park were areas selected by
these organizations as future tourism regions.
At the same time, regions became increasingly important aspects of nationalism. It
is also during this period that the English phrase "tourist region" came into use. Eric
Storm has argued that in the later decades of the nineteenth century "the stress was put
on the region in order to underline the intimate bond between everyone's own
community and the nation.” According to Strom, many people believed that “only by
being faithful to its own character could the region contribute to the welfare of the
whole.
" The idea of the region as part of a whole nation gained further ground in the first
years of the twentieth century, particularly after World War I, as an argument was
advanced that "every region had its own 'soul'…an organic part of the nation." During
this period, regional officials and businesses began promoting regions as tourist
destination. Through this process, "tourism promoters strove to balance the demands of
multiple identities: local, regional, state, national…They instructed their audiences that
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the regions' political, social, and economic fates were inextricably bound to their
landscapes and geography.” Tourists were portrayed “as important historical actors
whose engagement…played a vital role in shaping the outcome of that bond."
Although local and regional governments took the larger role in promoting
regional tourism in the late nineteenth and early twentieth century’s, during the Great
Depression of the 1930s, national governments in Europe and the United States began
aggressively promoting travel within their own borders. In doing so, they drew upon
nationalist sentiment to imbue tourism regions within the state with greater cultural and
historical meaning. Travel became a patriotic gesture as citizens and subjects were
encouraged to explore their nation's tourism regions. Nazi Germany's Strength through
Joy program subsidized travel for working-class Germans. One of the major projects of
the program included "assert[ing] that Germans everywhere should be interested in the
various regions" of Germany and that "part of preserving German culture…was to get to
know it in all its variants." According to D. Medina Lasansky, in Italy, one piece of
tourism literature argued that "'every region of Italy represents a page in the great book
of shining national glories from which each one of us could learn to be proud of being
Italian".
In the United States, "regional diversity" gave strength to a national whole in the
United States' tourist guidebooks produced by the New Deal's Federal Writers' Project.
As Andrew Gross argued, the guidebooks "transform[ed] local culture into a tourist
attraction, and the tourist attraction into a symbol of national loyalty, in order to
reproduce patriotism as a form of brand-name identification." In these WPA guides, the
region became an object of nostalgia, a victim of the national identity that flourished
through celebration of the regionalism it was helping to weaken.
2.6.4 Recent developments
Continuing earlier trends, governments have attempted to maximize tourism
potential by reverse engineering tourism regions. This process consists of dividing their
territories into discrete tourism regions in such a way that every inch of that country,
state, or region is given an attractive name, provided with advertising, and basic tourism
infrastructure such as signage. Some traditionally heavily touristic countries such as
France have implemented this strategy to encourage tourists who would normally only
spend time in more famous areas such as Paris and the French Riviera to venture out
into designated tourism regions such as the Western Loire Valley and Franche-Comté.
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The first of these is a more recently constructed region, while Franche-Comté has been
a distinct political and cultural region since the Middle Ages.
Other governments, such as that of the American state of Nebraska, have attempted
to use the creation of tourism regions to help produce a tourism industry in a state not
frequently considered by potential tourists. The state's "Lewis and Clark" region in
northeast Nebraska and the "Frontier Trails" region of south-central Nebraska attempt to
deemphasize the state's reputation as a place people cross on their way somewhere else
by capitalizing the role the state's territory played in the United States' often
romanticized project of westward expansion.
2.6.5 Regional Identity as a Marketing Tool
Regional identity has been stressed as an important factor in regional development
particularly by practitioners, but it is also a clear and reoccurring theme in both research
and policy. It is often supposed that regions provide a sense of identity, of place and of
belonging necessary for social and regional sustainability. Regions are certainly often
the formal focus for governance, policy and action. (Jeremy Millard and Astrid Leschly
Christensen 2004).
At regional level, the need to promote regional territorial identity is sometimes
seen just as great as the need to promote economic growth, social inclusion and
environmental sustainability. In fact, regional identity and regional social capital are
often perceived as necessary (if not present) conditions for, and as precursors to,
successful socio-economic and environmental regional development.
Regional differences remain the prime sources of competitive advantage. But a
region also provides a sense of place and belonging, as well as a focus for governance,
policy and action. This is necessary for social and economic stability in such a
globalised world. Without the local (regional) the individual’s world is hostile and
appears to be full of risks. (Jensen-Butler, 2000).
The image of regional identity is an assembly of cultural, economical and
territorial homogeneous factors that build the inhabitants identity, as well as by other
regions outside the region. For instance the Spanish regions were created due to
cultural, social, and territorial differences among the regions. That led to an autonomous
regions formation were each one setup the regional strategy according to national
guidelines towards development and growth.
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2.6.6 Sustainable Regional Development

“Sustainable Tourism Regional development meets the needs of the present
tourists and hosts regions while protecting and enhancing opportunity for the future. It
is envisaged as leading to management of all resources in such a way that economic,
social, and aesthetic needs can be fulfilled while maintaining cultural integrity, essential
ecological process, biological diversity, and life support systems” (World Tourism
Organization).
According to (Burr & Walsh, 1993), sustainability cannot be accomplished without
imposing limits of use, which are determined by the ability of the biosphere to absorb
the effects of that use. In that way the effects of tourism, even being of little footprint,
have effects on local territories. Therefore sustainable programs are rather important to
minimize the expected effects of such dislocation. Tourism development may impact
the distribution of wealth or power, may affect land uses and zoning laws, and may
interject new behaviours or institutions. What do these changes mean for community
stability? And we must consider factors affecting a community's capacity to deal with
such interventions. In other words, how do type and intensity of tourism-induced
disturbances affect our social and economical world?
Figure 2.6 Synthesis Model of a Tourism System at Destination - Source: Adaption from various sources
(Gunn, 1994; Leiper, 1979; Mill & Morrison, 1998; Weichard, 1992)
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2.6.7 Non-government regions and eco-museums:

A counter-trend to the establishment of government-designated tourism regions is
that of local voluntary associations which cooperate to market a specific area. One
popular type is an eco-museum which promotes natural and cultural tourism in rural
areas. Eco museums originated in France in the 1970s and have spread across Europe
and to North America as well.
For example, the Canadian province of Alberta rationalized its tourism regions
during in 1998 to six, down from nearly twenty. Despite this, local initiatives continue
to promote much smaller areas than the six massive official regions, which are larger
than many European countries. For example, the "Might Peace Tourism Association" is
a grouping of local municipalities in the Peace Country which has existed since 1963.
Likely wise the Kalyna Country eco-museum serves a similar role in East-Central
Alberta.
2.6.8 Analysis of RMP in regional tourism planning
Aiming at the existing problems in regional tourism development in China, such
as, structural overcapacity of tourism product and the transformation of product
development from "low cost ,high output" in the 1980s to "high investment, high risk,
high output". Chinese scholar Bihu Wu (2001) put forward a new framework of RMP
for regional tourism development and planning. The model RMP framework consists of
3 key elements for regional tourism planning, which are Resources, Markets, and
Products. The framework provided basic methods to current regional tourism planning
and has been practiced in the tourism planning of LuoYang city.
Figure 2.7 Analysis of RMP in regional tourism planning - Source: Tianjin University of Commerce(TUC)
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2.6.9 Specialty regions:

Wine Regions: Building on the success of ecotourism in regions such as
California's Wine Country, the number of wine regions catering to tourists has grown in
recent decades. Although wine regions have existed since the 1850s in France, wine
tourism became increasingly popular in the 1970s. Wine regions such as Bordeaux and
Burgundy in France were joined by regions in California, Italy, Spain, and even New
York as areas of interest to the potential wine tourist. Currently, several dozen countries
have their own wine regions, while many of these countries have dozens of regions
within their borders. Many wine regions do not correspond to designated tourism
regions. For example, the famous Bordeaux region in France is part of the political and
tourism region of Aquitaine while the Mosel wine region of Germany is located in the
Rhineland-Palatinate state and extends far to the northeast of the Moselle and Saar
tourism region.
According to C. Michael Hall, a wine region's success depends not only upon its
grapes and the experience of wine tasting, but also on its "infrastructure, physical
environment, scenery, regional cuisine and the social and cultural components of the
wine region"—in short, the major characteristics of tourism regions more generally.
Wine routes are also a popular feature of wine regions, helping to guide the wine tourist
from vineyard to vineyard. Often these wine routes are marked by signs along the
region's highways which also serve to inform non-wine tourists of the existence of the
wine region.
2.7 Defining strategy

In order to understand the theory of strategic planning and strategic management, it
is necessary to repeat and comprehend certain terms and concepts.
Strategy: it refers to the plan for achieving a goal or an objective. Webster
definition of strategy is:
1) the science of planning and directing large scale military operations, specifically
of maneuvering forces into the most advantageous position prior to actual engagement
with the enemy;
2) a plan of action based on this;
3) skill in managing or planning.
Today, the term strategy is no more confined to military applications.
Modern management has used it in relation to business operations and another
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definition of strategy is: “Something an organisation needs or uses in order to win or

establish its legitimacy in a world of competitive rivalry and numerous challenges to
managerial autonomy”. (SusTEn Mechanism), (2011)
Tactic: a term closely related to strategy is tactic – a specific action or
means for accomplishing a strategy. In this course, tactics are meant to be the
policies and action plans necessary to carry out strategies.
2.7.1 Importance of strategic management
Historically, before strategic planning emerged, firms, organization, institutions
assumed that whatever occurred in the past would continue in the future. A stable
environment significantly reduced the need for analysis of future trends. Radical
changes in the competitive market were far and few and change was not unforeseen.
This situation changed after World War 2. (SusTEn Mechanism), (2011)
The historical freedom of a capitalistic society, an entrepreneurial spirit, effective
communication channel, multiple social classes and materialism led to the search for
new products and services and hence more competition. This requires the ability to
forecast future wants of targeted markets and hence the need for research and planning
for future, i.e. Strategic planning. Business quickly found that the standardised process
of updating last year’s plan and turning it on for supervisory approval was no longer
enough. Something more was needed.
Figure 2.8 Framework for Strategic Planning in Destinations - Source: SusTEn
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2.8 Strategic planning

Is an organization's process of defining its strategy, or direction, and making
decisions on allocating its resources to pursue this strategy? In order to determine the
future direction of the organization, it is necessary to understand its current position and
the possible avenues through which it can pursue particular courses of action. Generally,
strategic planning deals with at least one of three key questions:
1) "What do we do?"
2) "For whom do we do it?"
3) "How do we excel?"
Many organizations view strategic planning as a process for determining where an

organization is going over the next year or—more typically—3 to 5 years (long term),
although some extend their vision to 20 years, or even (in the case of Mitsubishi) 500
years.
George Friedman in the Next 100 Years summarizes "the fundamental principle of
strategic planning: hope for the best, plan for the worst".
2.8.1 Strategic Planning Approach
In general, strategic planning is considered to be longer-term planning, which
differs from a short-term planning or annual programming/budgeting. The short-term
planning, usually on a year-to-year basis, may be very dangerous for a tourism
destination because it could lead to its economic and environmental decline when
unpredictable factors in the global market change. While long-term strategic planning
doesn’t guarantee success, it improves the odds of success. The strategic planning
process is a formal and systematic Endeavour to determine where the destination is
and where it is going to be in the future. It is suggested that the planning horizon
be no shorter than three years and extended up to 10 years. All of this is achieved
through dynamic, flexible and adaptable planning process, where:
The formulation and implementation are closely linked through constant
environmental scanning, monitoring, evaluation and adjustment of the strategic plan;
The plan is created by a broad and diverse group of actors (stakeholders) whose
needs, attitudes and values are closely reflected in the plan's philosophy, vision and
contents; (SusTEn Mechanism), (2011)
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There is a clear recognition of the interdependence and integration among the

various components of the plan, which is considered in the creation and implementation
of goals and strategies.
Strategic planning is a cyclical process. Generally, it consists of three major
phases.
The first phase includes:
Decision to begin a planning process;
Preparation and adoption of a vision statement;
Creation of a framework for stakeholder involvement;
Analysis;
Definition of a strategy
The second phase: is more iterative and it is concerned with the formulation of the
strategic action plan. The third phase of the strategic planning process is when the plan
is implemented and monitored. As a result of monitoring and evaluation, the plan is
reviewed and revised. Plan revisions are correspondingly made in the implementation.
The iteration continues until the plan is declared as successfully completed.
Generally, planning is important for enterprises, institutions as well as for
the destinations as a whole: most successful organisations achieve their industry
positions by some means of planning. Nowadays, a destination doesn’t have the
luxury of not having a detailed plan. (SusTEn Mechanism), (2011)
The traditional strategic planning model is derived from a SWOT analysis
(analysis of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats).It is base of the belief
that the “heart” of strategy formulation involves defining the “fit” between internal and
external factors so the strategy is developed subsequently to identifying the:
1) Threats and opportunities arising from external, uncontrollable environment and
2) Strengths and weaknesses of the destination. (SusTEn Mechanism), (2011)
2.8.2 Key components:
The key components of 'strategic planning' include an understanding of an entity's
vision, mission, values and strategies. (In the commercial world a "Vision Statement"
and/or a "Mission Statement" may encapsulate the vision and mission).
Vision: Outlines what the organization wants to be, or how it wants the world in
which it operates to be (an "idealized" view of the world). It is a long-term view and
concentrates on the future. It can be emotive and is a source of inspiration. For example,
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a charity working with the poor might have a vision statement which reads "A World
without Poverty."
Mission: Defines the fundamental purpose of an organization or an enterprise,
succinctly describing why it exists and what it does to achieve its vision. For example,
the charity above might have a mission statement as "providing jobs for the homeless
and unemployed".
Values: Beliefs that are shared among the stakeholders of an organization. Values
drive an organization's culture and priorities and provide a framework in which
decisions are made. For example, "Knowledge and skills are the keys to success" or
"give man bread and feed him for a day, but teach him to farm and feed him for life".
These example maxims may set the priorities of self-sufficiency over shelter.
Strategy: Strategy, narrowly defined, means "the art of the general". - a
combination of the ends (goals) for which the firm is striving and the means (policies)
by which it is seeking to get there. A strategy is sometimes called a roadmap - which is
the path chosen to plow towards the end vision. The most important part of
implementing the strategy is ensuring the company is going in the right direction -
defined as towards the end vision.
Organizations sometimes summarize goals and objectives into a mission statement
and/or a vision statement. Others begin with a vision and mission and use them to
formulate goals and objectives. A newly emerging approach is to use a visual strategic
plan such as is used within planning approaches based on outcomes theory. When using
this approach, the first step is to build a visual outcomes model of the high-level
outcomes being sought and all of the steps which it is believed are needed to get to
them. The vision and mission are then just the top layers of the visual model.
Many people mistake the vision statement for the mission statement, and
sometimes one is simply used as a longer term version of the other. However they are
distinct; with the vision being a descriptive picture of a desired future state; and the
mission being a statement of a rationale, applicable now as well as in the future. The
mission is therefore the means of successfully achieving the vision. This may be in the
business world or the military.
For an organization's vision and mission to be effective, they must become
assimilated into the organization's culture. They should also be assessed internally and
externally. The internal assessment should focus on how members inside the
organization interpret their mission statement. The external assessment — which
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includes all of the businesses stakeholders — is valuable since it offers a different

perspective. These discrepancies between these two assessments can provide insight
into their effectiveness.
2.9 Impacts of Travel and Tourism

The tourism industry is able to guaranty substantial economic benefits to both host
countries and tourists' home countries. Especially in developing countries, one of the
primary motivations for a region to promote itself as a tourism destination is the
expected economic improvement. As with other impacts, this influential economic
development brings along both positive and negative consequences.
2.9.1 Negative Impacts
① Infrastructure Cost
The investment on infrastructure represents a gain for local populations, especially
when it is needed. The tourism can enable governmental institutions to support
infrastructure improvement. Although this can be seen as a negative effect if local’s
governments don’t be aware that the money spent on these projects could be better used
in other areas of interest, like education, or social welfare.
② Increase on Prices
Tourism development and related rise in real state demand may drastically increase
the building costs and land values. This increase can make it more difficult for locals
especially in lagging regions. Thus it can result in decreasing economical power by
local population, while raise of dominance by outsiders.
The increase on demand on basic services and goods from tourist can also affect
the prices causing a disempowering of residents. For instance in the Algarve region the
prices of houses in the last decade have risen more than in the rest of the country, due to
a increase on demand by foreigners that want to acquire second house residences (villas
and flats) in the region. The effect of this is increasing demand in residence areas far
away from the touristic areas, by locals who can’t afford to pay such values. On the
other hand this situation led to an additional pressure by some stakeholders towards new
urbanizations construction, increasing the offer of villas and flats expecting a decrease
on prices, which can also benefits for locals.
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③ Economic Dependence of the Local Communities on Tourism

The economical development of a region is an important aspect for local
populations. However, if a region or even a country depends too much on tourism
industry that is characterized by seasonal employment alternatives to this are essential.
For instance in Gambia, 30% of the workforce depends directly or indirectly on tourism.
In small island developing states, percentages can range from 83% in the Maldives to
21% in the Seychelles and 34% in Jamaica, according to the (WTO).Thus high levels of
dependence on tourism carries significant risks. According to United Nations
Environment Program (UNEP 2006):
“Economic recession and the impacts of natural disasters such as tropical storms
and cyclones as well as changing tourism patterns can have a devastating effect on the
local tourism sector”.
④ Seasonal Character of Jobs
The seasonal character of the industry is one of the problems of employment.
Despite this some regions don’t suffering these problems mainly due to strong tourist
income during all the seasons. These factors can be explained by the type of tourism
practiced. Also climacteric characteristics can make some regions appraisable and
attractive. Ex: countries that are localized around equator tropic.
Though these specificities the main picture of employment seasonality is in fact a
real problem that only can be tackled by providing extra activities to employees during
the quiet periods. According to (UNEP) United Nations Environment considers that are
in some regions are:
“Difficulties in getting training, employment-tourism related medical benefits and
recognition of their experience, and unsatisfactory housing and working conditions”.
⑤ Environmental Degradation
Tourism can cause the same forms of environmental impacts as any other
industries: air emissions, noise, solid waste and littering, releases of sewage, oil and
chemicals, even architectural/visual pollution. Tourism activities can have negative
impacts if not properly planned. In other words the effects of such activities should be
measured and forecasted and managed. Such impacts can have effects on important land
resources include minerals, fossil fuels, fertile soil, forests, wetland and wildlife.
Increased construction of tourism and recreational facilities has increased the pressure
on these resources and on scenic landscapes.
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Direct impact on natural resources, both renewable and nonrenewable, in the

provision of tourist facilities can be caused by the use of land for accommodation and
other infrastructures. Furthermore alteration of ecosystems by tourist activities habitats
can be degraded by tourism leisure activities. For example, wildlife viewing can bring
about stress for the animals and alter their natural behavior when tourists come too
close. Safaris and wildlife watching activities have a degrading effect on habitat as they
often are accompanied by the noise and commotion created by tourists. This puts high
pressure on animal habits and behaviors and tends to bring about behavioral changes.
2.9.2 Positive Impacts
① Employment Generation
The tourism industry is able to promote employment creation in several tourism
based sectors, such as hotels, restaurants, nightclubs, taxis, recreation. Also can foster
spillover effects over indirect activities closely related with tourism such as supply of
goods and services, as an example cited in (UNEP) United Nations Environment
Program. “(…) the hotel accommodation sector alone provided around 11.3 million jobs
worldwide in 1995(…)”.
② Stimulation of Infrastructure Investment
If regional and local governments support tourism as framework for sustainable
regional development it can enable improvements on existent infrastructure and build
up new tourism sport infrastructure for recreational and logistic tourism infrastructure
support. Benefits for local inhabitants are growing up quality of life through
infrastructure such water and sewage systems, roads, electricity, telephone, internet,
public transport and so forth.
In lagging regions these investments have special meaning for local populations,
functioning for several times, as stimulation. Population renovations in areas that have a
deficit of inhabitants are due especially to these lacks of infrastructure support described
above.
③ Environmental Gains
Rural areas use to be places where strong activities like production and forest
usage for heating and agricultural based activities are based. Many of these areas are
today considered abandoned due to demographics factors as aging population and
migration to urban areas seeking for education and employment.
Tourism can play and important role for revitalizing these areas, through fostering
biological agriculture, forest activities, empowerment of historical monuments, heritage,
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and preserving rural housing. In this way rural areas have though much to earn with a
strategic vision. In tourism development in such areas are reliable and economically
sustainable, that in my opinion represents a big challenge.
2.9.3 Other Impacts
Improvement of the conditions of life/habitability
Participation of the local population and agents in multiple innovations
Training/Informing of the Community
Fixation of the Population and contribute in the re-establishment of family
structure.
Create awareness to the valorization and preservation of traditional architecture
and cultural patrimony.
Cultural renovation, regression and strengthening of self-esteem
Demonstrating the alternatives available with Rural Development
2.9.4 The Main Impacts and Challenges in Mediterranean
All tourism forms and activities rely on the use of environmental resources. Even if
it is considered as a “soft” industry, tourism has a major environmental impact in many
coastal areas, which are particularly vulnerable to pressures associated with its growth.
The relationship existing between tourism and environment is best qualified as a
relation of mutual dependence: not only tourism is highly dependent on
environmental quality but environmental quality is also highly vulnerable to tourism
development.
An overview of the impacts of tourism on coastal areas, which can be both positive
and negative, is given by Coccossis and Mexa (Coccossis H. e Mexa A: The Challenge
of Tourism Carrying Capacity Measurement: Theory and Practice; Ashgate Publishing
Limited, England) (2004). Coastal communities certainly benefit from tourism through
the creation of employment opportunities, the raising of revenue, the development of
infrastructure, improvements in health and safety conditions, enhancements of
aesthetic standards, etc. Raising the coastal populations’ awareness of the value of
their coasts under the influence of visitors and the subsequent investment in
environmental protection are additional positive outcomes of tourism development.
On the other and, together with urbanisation, mass tourism is accused of being
one of the main causes of the littoralisation phenomenon (ribbon development) and
severe ecological losses in coastal areas. Large tourism developments have dramatically
altered not only the visual aspect of many territories around the world but also the
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natural dynamics of respective ecosystems. Land-grab and demand for resources are
at the root of severe erosion phenomena, loss of valuable habitats (such as sand dunes,
coral reefs, wetlands and mangrove forests), the irreversible destruction of pristine
areas, and the loss of rare animal and vegetal species. Tourism is a huge consumer of
natural resources which are used to supply tourists with a variety of goods and services:
drinking water - an extremely scarce resource in many coastal areas; food -
sometimes causing pressure on local production, especially of seafood, and leading
to over-fishing; electric power and cooling/heating facilities - making tourism a
massive consumer of energy.
Moreover, the environmental effects of coastal tourism extend to marine and
freshwater pollution through the discharge of sewage, in many cases directly into
water without any treatment, and the disposal of considerable quantities of wastes
generated by tourism establishments. Similarly, Gossling (Gossling, S. (2002), Global
Environmental Consequences of Tourism, Global Environmental Change,
Vol. 12, No. 4, pp. 283-302) (2002) names the following global environmental
consequences of tourism:
① changes in land cover and land use.
② energy use.
③ biotic exchange and extinction of wild species.
④ exchange and dispersion of diseases.
⑤ changes in the perception and understanding of the environment and
⑥ water use.
Marine pollution may also result from the discharges from tourist yachts, excursion
boats, car ferries and, particularly, cruise ships. These “floating towns”, with a capacity
of up to 4,000 passengers, are considered “a major source of marine pollution through
the dumping of rubbish and untreated sewage at sea, and the release of other shipping-
related pollutants” (WWF (accessed in September 2010), Problems: Tourism & coastal
development, World Wide Fund for Nature, Available at: http://www.panda.org/, 2007).
Besides ecological damages, tourism may impact negatively on the local society.
The impact of tourism on traditional lifestyle and local customs, the erosion of
traditional socio-cultural values and the loss of identity of the local population, and the
devaluation of property values due to overbuilding are some of these negative impacts.
Finally, even if tourism in Mediterranean is typically concentrated in a narrow
coastal zone, its impact can be felt over a much greater area. The infrastructure needed
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to support coastal tourism can extend over a wider region as it includes road and rail
networks, airports, housing development for employees, large shopping centers, etc.
The main challenges for sustainable tourism in participating regions revolve
around extending tourism development from narrow coastal area to the hinterland and,
thus, reducing the existing imbalance between communities living in these adjacent
areas; reducing the seasonality of demand; providing for a more rational use of
resources, especially water and energy and reducing the pollution of coastal and marine
environments, as well as threats to wildlife and habitats.
2.10 Tourism Carrying Capacity Assessment
Although the concept of Tourism Carrying Capacity Assessment emerged before
the Rio Conference in 1992, it contributed greatly since by sharing the same key
principles with those of Agenda 21:
Concept of integrated local development;
Visualisation of alternative future scenarios;
Importance of using indicators for assessing sustainability and local life quality;
Importance of establishing partnerships with the private sector;
Importance of citizens´ participation;
Objective of achieving a whole series of action programs in the short, medium and
long term. (SusTEn Mechanism), (2011)
Mainly, the tourism carrying capacity of a destination can be focused on
three components or basic dimensions: physical-ecological-environmental, socio
demographic and economic-political. These dimensions also reflect the range of issues
considered in practice. It is a process that is defined by:
1) a descriptive phase, which provides the knowledge on the studied territorial
system;
2) an evaluation phase, which describes the possible modes of management
and acceptable levels of impact for the destination; and
3) a strategic phase that leads to defining the optimum capacity and to the
formulation of a strategy for the sustainable tourism development of the destination.
2.11 Conventional planning Vs. Strategic Planning
We are already aware of the conventional planning approaches. However, a
strategic approach should:
1) provide for course correction, contingency and tactical maneuverability,
2) clarify options,
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3) assess and allow for risks,

4) provide coherence for decision making,
5) identify control points and leverage,
6) integrate decision across levels and functions,
7) provide opportunities for more systematic organisational and community
development,
8) highlight the need for managing performance.
In contrast to the traditional tourism “master” planning, the strategic approach
should
1) focus more on alternatives or options;
2) recognize planning as a subset of management;
3) raise capacity to act in crisis situations or meeting new challenges;
4) place more emphasis on key decisions and choices;
5) insist that people on key roles pay attention to the main agenda;
6) concentrate on issues that bring a commitment to develop a game plan;
7) identify stakeholders and ensure their involvement, and
8) create a change process and management orientation.
What should be obvious is that tourism and tourism development have always been
prone to fluctuations, randomness and unpredictability. This is tourism’s natural state
and like any other business there is throat competition. It can though take a more
predictable form, but this requires the presence of guiding visions, strong values and
rules.
Figure 2.9 The three environments of the tourism system - Source: Liu (1994)
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2.12 Literature review Summary

Regional tourism should be included in the three phases of the strategic plan;
① Regional tourism is an essential element which cannot be separated from the
strategic planning phases.
② And if regional tourism ignored from the strategic plan phases the result will be
an unplanned and random development which will threat any possibility of future
planned development by which affects regional tourism negatively.
③ Strategic planning could make from a region a successful or unsuccessful
regional tourism destination, as will be shown later through the strategic planning of
Syrian coast region and Hainan province.
Meanwhile, the methodological framework to establish the process of strategic

planning for sustainable tourism development in coastal areas, as proposed here,
includes the following steps:
1) Decision to begin the Strategic Planning Process;
2) Consensus on the Vision Statement;
3) Initial Analysis of the Destination;
4) Tourism Carrying Capacity Assessment;
5) Definition of a Baseline Scenario;
6) Preparation of alternative scenarios for tourism development and definition of
the Sustainable Scenario (SS);
7) Preparation and adoption of the Strategy for Sustainable Tourism;
8) Formulation of the Strategic Action Plan;
9) Implementation of the Strategic Action Plan;
10) Monitoring;
11) Review.
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Figure 2.10 The iterative process of Strategic Planning for Sustainable Tourism Development in coastal
areas Source: United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
While the above steps appear sequential, the process is an iterative one, with
feedback loops connecting the various steps. It is also important to note that this is a
recommended process - each destination may need to tailor this process to suit its own
requirements, norms and values.
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3.1 Syrian Coast Region

Coastal region include the following governorates:
Lattakia area /2,300km².
Tartous area /1,900km².
Figure 3.1 Syrian provinces Figure 3.2 The Syrian Coastal Area and Pilot Areas map
Source: http://www-personal.umich.edu Source: U NEP - Project funded by the European
Commission Life Third Countries- November 2004
Syrian coastal region has 190 km of coastline, covers 2.5% of the national territory,
accounts for 13% of the population, and contributes with 11% to the GNP. The region is
composed of three markedly different areas: coastal plain, abundant with water and fertile
soil; the hilly zone with limited water resources and lower quality agricultural land; and the
mountains. The area accounts for 35% of the national energy production, 38% of cement
production, 50% of petroleum refining; the predominant part of the national export is
shipped through the port of Latakia and Tartous. Due to abundance of freshwater and
fertile soil, the area is distinguished by a rich and productive agriculture of the
Mediterranean type, with 16% of cultivated land under irrigation.
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3.1.1 Transportation
Figure 3.3 Latakia Transportation Figure 3.4 Syria Coastal Area map
Source Map Pictures map of latakia -23 - November – 2012 Source: GLCSC - 24/02/2012
A major highway linked Latakia with Aleppo and the Euphrates valley in 1968 and
was supplemented by the completion of a railway line to Homs.
Much of the city is accessible by taxi and other forms of public transportation. Buses
transport people to various Syrian, Lebanese, and Turkish cities. The "luxury" Garagat
Pullman Bus Station is located on Abdel Qader al-Husseini Street.
Latakia's train station is located on al-Yaman Square. Chemins de Fer Syriens
operated services, including two daily runs to Aleppo and one weekly run to Damascus via
Tartous. In 2005, approximately 512,167 passengers departed from Latakia's train station.
Bassel Al-Assad International Airport is located 25 kilometers (16 mi) south of
Latakia and serves as a national and regional airport with regular flights to Sharjah , Jeddah
Riyadh and Cairo.The Port of Latakia is also a link in six organized cruises between
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Alexandria, Izmir and Beirut. In addition, there are irregular ferry services to Cyprus. In
2005, approximately 27,939 passengers used the port.
Tartous has a well-developed road network and highways. The Chemins de Fer
Syriens operated railway network connects Tartous to major cities in Syria, although only
the Latakia-Tartous passenger connection is in service.
3.1.2 Land Use/Land Cover Patterns
According to evidence coming from field survey, from previously existing thematic
maps and from satellite data interpretation, it can be stated that the coastal areas of Syria
show, besides a quite high variety of morphological characteristics, some dominant
patterns of land use types characterised by specific erosion risk classes.
The next map shows the land use/land cover map (the relevant legend has been
simplified, with respect to the original data set, for a better small-scale thematic
representation). The pattern drawn by the mix of this land cover with olive plantations is,
in most cases, below the minimum mapping unit size and therefore it is not map able at the
reconnaissance scale. At lower altitudes, on the coastal plain, land use is characterised by
tree plantations (especially citrus), intensive farming and field crops.
Figure 3.5 Land use/ land cover map of Figure 3.6 Erosion risk map of
the coastal areas of Syria the Syrian coastal areas
Source: U NEP - Project funded by the Source: U NEP - Project funded by the
European Commission Life European Commission Life
Third Countries- November 2004 Third Countries- November 2004
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3.1.3 Major problems and issues

The rapid urban and industrial development and absence of pollution abatement and
treatment facilities resulted in:
① Uncontrolled ribbon development along the shoreline;
② Sprawl of uncontrolled low-density housing development;
③ High pollution of the coastal and marine environment;
④ Chemical pollution and bacteriological contamination of freshwater sources due to
the uncontrolled disposal of untreated urban solid and liquid waste, waste from villages
and farms, agricultural practices, industry and transports; and
⑤ Destruction of wetlands and dunes (due to sand extraction).
3.1.4 Overview on Latakia
Latakia, or Latakiyah is the principal port city of Syria, as well as the capital of the
Latakia Governorate. In addition to serving as a port, the city is a manufacturing center for
surrounding agricultural towns and villages. According to the 2011 official census, the
population is 1,008,000. It is the 5th largest city in Syria after Aleppo, Damascus, Homs
and Hama, and it borders Tartous to the south, Hama to the east, and Idlib to the north.
Latakia Governorate
Latakia Governorate is one of the fourteen governorates (provinces) of Syria. It is
situated in western Syria, bordering Turkey. Its reported area varies in different sources
from 2,297 km² to 2,437 km². The Governorate has a population of 991,000 (2010
estimate). The capital is Latakia.
Districts
The governorate is divided into four districts (manatiq):
① Al-Haffah
② Jableh
③ Latakia
④ Qardaha
These are further divided into boroughs
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Figure 3.7 Political map of Syria where Latakia is highlighted Figure 3.8 Latakia Province Map
Source http://www.123rf.com Source http://www.mapsofworld.com
History:
The location of Latakia, the Ras Ziyarah promontory, has a long history of occupation.
The Phoenician city of Ramitha was located here, known to the Greeks as Leukê Aktê, "white
headland". Ramitha dates at least to the second millennium BC and was a part of the kingdom
of Ugarit a short distance north. As Ugarit declined at the end of the second millennium BC,
the better natural harbor facilities at Ramitha increased its importance.
Greco-Roman and Byzantine:
The location of Latakia, the Ras Ziyarah promontory, has a long history of occupation.
The Phoenician city of Ramitha was located here, known to the Greeks as Leukê Aktê, "white
headland". Ramitha dates at least to the second millennium BC and was a part of the kingdom
of Ugarit a short distance north. As Ugarit declined at the end of the second millennium BC,
the better natural harbor facilities at Ramitha increased its importance.
It is a city most beautifully built, has a good harbour, and has territory which, besides its
other good crops, abounds in wine. Now this city furnishes the most of the wine to the
Alexandreians, since the whole of the mountain that lies above the city and is possessed by it is
covered with vines almost as far as the summits. And while the summits are at a considerable
distance from Laodicea, sloping up gently and gradually from it, they tower above Apameia,
extending up to a perpendicular height.
In AD 193, Septimius Severus endowed Laodicea with four colonnaded streets that
divided the city into a series of rectangles. Roman Laodicea, based on the foundations of the
Seleucid grid, was laid out along a vertical axis stretching for 1.5-2 kilometers from north to
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south, linking the center of the town with the northern road to Antioch, and forming the cardus
maximus (main Commercial Street). The east-west axis consisted of three main streets: the
first linked the port to the citadel, the second linked the port to the Apamea road, and the third
linked the port to a monumental four-way arch, or tetrapyle, which was erected at the point of
intersection with the north-south colonnaded avenue. Septimius also built baths, a theatre, a
hippodrome, numerous sanctuaries and other public buildings in the city. Rome regarded
Laodicea as a key strategic seaport in the prized province of Syria.
In 494, the town was damaged by the first of a long series of earthquakes. In 528,
Emperor Justinian I created the new province of Theodorias out of the coastal belt around
Laodicea, which was rebuilt and fortified against the increasing Persian threat. In 555, another
earthquake devastated Latakia.
Islamic:
Laodicea fell to the Rashidun army in 638, under general Abu Ubaida, who reportedly
had trenches dug around the town so that even horsemen could advance unobserved.
Crusader, Ayyubid, Mamluk and Ottoman rule:
The first crusades reached Syria in 1097, and on August 19, 1097, twenty-eight ships
from Cyprus under Guynemer of Boulogne penetrated Latakia's harbor, sacking the town and
making it part of the Principality of Antioch. During the crusade, the southern ports of Latakia
and Baniyas were handed over to Byzantine officials by Robert of Normandy and Raymond of
St. Gills.
On July 21, 1188, Saladin arrived before the walls of Latakia and forced the capitulation
of the Crusaders two days later. By then, it had become a well-fortified and wealthy city.
Following the fall of the Principality of Antioch in 1268 to the Mamluks under Sultan
Baibars, in 1287, an earthquake devastated the town and caused widespread damage to the
fortifications, destroying the Pigeon Tower, the Pier Tower and the lighthouse.
Latakia came under Ottoman control after 1516 and was part of Ottoman Syria. The city
continued to decline.
French Mandate period:
In the beginning of the twentieth century, Latakia was a small town with a population of
7,000, ruled from Beirut. After the defeat of the Ottoman Empire in World War I, the town fell
under the French mandate. The French quickly set about restoring the port facilities by
rebuilding the north and south moles and deepening the harbor from two to six meters. By
1931, the population of Latakia had grown to 20,000. In 1932, a plan for a new deep-water
harbor was proposed.
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Economy:
The Port of Latakia is the main route in Syria for containers, though it also handles a large
amount of metals, machinery, chemicals and foodstuffs. In 2004, 5.1 million tonnes were
unloaded, and one million tonnes were loaded from Latakia port. New quay investments are
underway in the port. The port is managed by a semi-autonomous state company. Latakia has
an extensive agricultural hinterland. Exports include bitumen and asphalt, cereals,cotton,
fruits, eggs, vegetable oil, pottery, and tobacco. Cotton ginning, vegetable-oil processing,
tanning, and sponge fishing serve as local industries for the city.
The Cote d'Azur Beach of Latakia is Syria's premier coastal resort, and activities
undertaken there include water skiing, jet skiing, and windsurfing. The city contains eight
hotels, two of which have five-star ratings; both the Cote d'Azur de Cham Hotel and Lé
Merdien Lattiquie Hotel are located 6 kilometres (3.7 mi) north of the city, at Cote d'Azur. The
latter hotel has 274 rooms and is the only international hotel in the city.
Compared to other Syrian cities, window shopping and evening strolls in the markets is
considered a favorite pastime in Latakia. Numerous designer-label stores line 8 Azar Street,
and the heart of the city's shopping area is the series of blocks enclosed by 8 Azar Street,
Yarmouk Street, and Saad Zaghloul Street in the city center. Cinemas in Latakia include
Ugarit Cinema, al-Kindi, and a smaller theater off al-Moutanabbi Street.
Geography:
Latakia is located 348 kilometres (216 mi) north-west of Damascus, 186 kilometres (116
mi) south-west from Aleppo, 186 kilometres (116 mi) north-west of Homs, and 90 kilometres
(56 mi) north of Tartus. Nearby towns and villages include Kasab to the north, Al-Haffah,
Deirmama, Slinfah and Qardaha to the east in the al-Ansariyah mountain range, and Jableh and
Baniyas to the south.
Latakia is the capital of the Latakia Governorate, in western Syria, bordering Turkey to
the north. The governorate has a reported area of either 2,297 square kilometres (887 sq mi) or
2,437 square kilometres (941 sq mi). Latakia city is located in the Latakia District in the
northern portion of Latakia governorate.
Landmarks:
The modern city still exhibits faint traces of its former importance, notwithstanding the
frequent earthquakes with which it has been visited. The marina is built upon foundations of
ancient columns, and there are in the town an old gateway and other antiquities, as also
sarcophagi and sepulchral caves in the neighborhood. This gateway is a remarkable triumphal
arch at the southeast corner of the town, almost entire: it is built with four entrances, like the
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Forum Jani at Rome. It is conjectured that this arch was built in honor of Lucius Verus, or of
Septimius Severus. Fragments of Greek and Latin inscriptions are dispersed all over the ruins,
but entirely defaced.
Notable points of interest in the nearby area include the massive
① Saladin's Castle and
② The ruins of Ugarit, where some of the earliest alphabetic writings have been
found.
③ Several popular beaches.
④ The 13th-century Great Mosque.
⑤ The 18th-century Jadid Mosque constructed by Suleiman Pasha Azem.
⑥ Latakia is a home city of consulate generals of Finland, France, and honorary
consulates of Greece and Romania.
Festivals
Latakia is home to a major annual festival, Al-Mahaba Festival. The festival is held
between August 2–12 and includes cultural events, sports competitions and musical concerts.
The festival is held in the Latakia Sports City complex and is a landmark of the city.
Source: http://www.bahharshipping.com/ToolsPorts.html
Latakia Port
Latakia Port is run by the coalition of the French CMA CGM, a worldwide leading
container shipping group and Terminal Link, an offshoot of CMA CGM, and Syria
Holding Company.
Latakia is located approx 40km south of the Turkish border and is Syria's principal
port.
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Handled by the port is diversified and facilities exist to accommodate tankers, Ro-
Ros, container ships, general cargo and bulk vessels. Approximately 3,000,000 tons of
cargo is handled annually. The main channel for the Port of Latakia is 3166 meters long
and 14.5 meters deep, and the port covers 150 hectares of land and 135 hectares of water
surface, and it contains 23 piers with a total length of 4280 meters with alongside depths
from 3.5 to 13.3 meters.
The port has 9 cranes and 33 locomotive engines with metal ways of 34 KM Length,
and slipway of 900 tons capacity.
The Port of Latakia has ample handling and storage capacity. Its grain silos can
accommodate 35 thousand tons, and it has a refrigeration warehouse with capacity for 1500
tons of cargo. The Port of Latakia contains 14 open yards covering a total area of 50 hectares,
and it offers 23 closed stores with total area of 12.8 hectares. Handling area for general cargoes
covers about 185 thousand square meters, and the container terminal covers 430 thousand
square meters with capacity for from 15 to 17 thousand containers. The Ports has an electric
station, passenger stations for passengers and customs and security transaction and an
infirmary.
Today, the Port of Latakia is undergoing a modernization program to improve the port's
performance by adding updated equipment, streamlining work processes, and training port
personnel in the latest cargo-handling and port management practices. The project includes
building new silos and rehabilitating old ones, expanding the port through a three-phased
process, establish a new maritime training center, and secure container-management services.
Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tartus http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tartus_Governorate
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3.1.5 Overview on Tartous

Tartous is a city on the Mediterranean coast of Syria. Tartous is the second largest
port city in Syria (after Latakia), and the largest city in Tartous Governorate. The
population is 797,000 (2011 census). In the summer it is a vacation spot for many Syrians.
Many vacation compounds are located in the region with some top quality resorts.
Tartous Governorate
Tartous Governorate is one of the fourteen governorates (provinces) of Syria. It is
situated in western Syria, bordering Lebanon to the south, the Mediterranean Sea to the
west, Latakia Governorate to the north, and Homs and Hama Governorates to the east.
Sources list the area as 1,890 km² or 1,892 km².The governorate has a population of
785,000 (2010 estimate). The capital is Tartous.
Districts
The governorate is divided into five districts (manatiq):
① Ash-Shaykh Badr
② Baniyas
③ Duraykish
④ Safita
⑤ Tartous
These are further divided into 27 sub-districts (nawahi).
Figure 3.9 Political map of Syria where Tartous is highlighted Figure 3.10 Tartous Province Map
Source: http://www.123rf.com Source: http://www.mapsofworld.com
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History:
The History of Tartous goes back to the 2nd millennium BC when it was founded as a
Phoenician colony of Aradus. The colony was known as Antaradus (from Greek "Anti-
Arados → Antarados", Anti-Aradus, meaning "The town facing Arwad"). Not much
remains of the Phoenician Antaradus, the mainland settlement that was linked to the more
important and larger settlements of Aradus, off the shore of Tartous, and the nearby site of
Amrit.
Greco-Roman and Byzantine:
The city was called Antaradus in classical Latin. The city was favored by Emperor
Constantine for its devotion to the cult of the Virgin Mary. The first chapel to be dedicated
to the Virgin is said to have been built here in the 3rd century.
Islamic:
Muslim armies conquered Tartous under the leadership of Ayyan bin al-Samet al-
Ansary in 636.
Crusader, Ayyubid, Mamluk and Ottoman rule:
The Crusaders called the city Antartus, and also Tortosa. First captured by Raymond
of Saint-Gilles, it was left in 1105 to his son Alfonso Jordan and was known as Tortosa. In
1123 the Crusaders built the semi-fortified Cathedral of Our Lady of Tortosa over a
Byzantine church that was popular with pilgrims. Tortosa was the last outpost of the
Templars on the Syrian mainland, after which they retreated to a garrison on the nearby
island of Arwad, which they kept for another decade The Cathedral itself was used as a
mosque after the Muslim reconquest of the city, then as a barracks by the Ottomans.
French Mandate period:
It was renovated under the French and is now the city museum, containing antiquities
recovered from Amrit and many other sites in the region. Nur ad-Din Zangi retrieved
Tartous from the Crusaders for a brief time before he lost it again.
Economy:
Tartous is an important trade center in Syria and has one of the two main ports of the
country on the Mediterranean. The city port is experiencing major expansion as a lot of
Iraqi imports come through the port of Tartous to aid reconstruction efforts in Iraq.
Tartous is a popular destination for tourists. The city offers good sandy beaches and
several resorts. The city enjoyed major investments in the last few years, the largest being
Antaradus and Porto waterfront development.
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Geography:
The city lies on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea bordered by the
Mountains to the east. Arwad, the only inhabited island on the Syrian coast, is located a
few kilometers off the shore of Tartous.It is almost exactly like a typical beach town in
Greece.
Tartous occupies most of smooth areas, surrounded to the east by mountains
composed mainly of limestone and, in certain places around the town of Souda, basalt.
Landmarks:
The historic center of Tartous consists of more recent buildings built on and inside the
walls of the Crusader-era Templar fortress, whose moat still separates this old town from
the modern city on its northern and eastern sides. Outside the fortress few historic remains
can be seen, with the exception of the former cathedral of Notre-Dame of Tartus (Our Lady
of Tortosa), from the 12th century. The church is now the site of a museum. Former
President Hafez Assad and his predominantly Islamic administration had promised to
return the site to the Christians as a symbol of deep Christianity in Syria; however he died
before this promise was executed. Assad's son, President Bashar Assad, has claimed to
honor his father's promise.
Tartous and the surrounding area are rich in antiquities and archeological sites.
Various important and well known sites are located within a 30-minute drive from Tartous.
These attractions include:
① The old city of Tartous.
② Marqab Castle, north of the city.
③ The historic Town of Safita.
④ Arwad island and castle.
⑤ The ancient cathedral of Our Lady of Tortosa, now used as the city museum.
⑥ Beit el-Baik Palace.
⑦ Hosn Suleiman Temple.
⑧ Mashta Al Helou resort.
⑨ Drekish town-resort.
The outlying town of Al Hamidiyah just south of Tartous is notable for having a
Greek-speaking population of about 3,000 who are Muslims in their religion. Their
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ancestors moved there in the late 19th century from Crete. Since the start of the Iraqi War,
a few thousands Iraqi nationals now reside in Tartous.
Tartous Port
The Port of Tartous lies on Syria's western shores on the Mediterranean Sea about 80
kilometers by land south of the Port of Lattakia. The Port of Tartous is one of Syria’s two
major ports.
Source: http://www.bahharshipping.com/ToolsPorts.html
3.2 Hainan Province

3.2.1 Overview on Hainan
Hainan (Chinese: 海南; Mandarin Pinyin: Hǎinán (help·info); Jyutping: Hoi Naam4;
Peh-ōe-jī: Hái-lâm; literally "South of the Sea [Qiongzhou Strait]") is the smallest and
southernmost province of the People's Republic of China (PRC). The name "Hainan" also
refers to Hainan Island (海南岛, Hǎinán Dǎo), the main island of the province. Hainan is
located in the South China Sea, separated from Guangdong's Leizhou Peninsula to the
north by the shallow and narrow Qiongzhou Strait.
Hainan Province is the largest Special Economic Zone laid out by Chinese leader
Deng Xiaoping in the late 1980s.
There are a total of eight major cities and ten counties in Hainan Province. Haikou on
the northern coast of Hainan Island is the capital whilst Sanya is a well-known tourist
destination on the south coast. The other major cities are Wenchang, Qionghai, Wanning,
Wuzhishan Dongfang and Danzhou.
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Figure 3.11 Political map of China Hainan is highlighted Figure 3.12 Hainan Island map
Source: Source: http://www.123rf.com Source: http://www.sanyatravelguide.com
History:
Hainan Island first entered written Chinese history in 110 BC, when the Han Dynasty
established a military garrison there following the arrival of General Lu Bode (路博德). In
46 BC the Han court decided that the conquest was too expensive and abandoned the
island. Around that time, Han people together with military personnel and officials began
to migrate to Hainan Island from mainland China. Among them were the offspring of those
who were banished to Hainan for political reasons. Most of them arrived in Hainan Island
from the southern provinces of Guangdong, Fujian and Guangxi.
Li people are the original inhabitants of Hainan. They are believed to be the
descendants of the ancient Yue tribes of China, who settled on the island between 7 and 27
thousand years ago.
During the Three Kingdoms Period (184−280), Hainan was the Zhuya Commander (
珠崖郡) under the control of Eastern Wu.
At the time of the Song Dynasty (980−1279), Hainan became part of Guangxi, and for
the first time large numbers of Han Chinese arrived, settling mostly in the north. Under the
Yuan Dynasty (1206–1368) the island became an independent province then in 1370 was
placed under the administration of Guangdong by the ruling Ming Dynasty. In the
sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, large numbers of Han Chinese from Fujian and
Guangdong began migrating to Hainan. In the eighteenth century, the Li rebelled against
the Qing government, which responded by bringing in mercenaries from the Miao people
regions of Guizhou.
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In 1906, the Chinese Republican leader Sun Yat-sen proposed that Hainan should
become a separate province although this did not happen until 1988.
Hainan was historically part of Guangdong and Guangxi Provinces and as such was
the Ch'iung-yai or Qiongya Circuit (瓊崖道) under the 1912 establishment of the Republic
of China. In 1921, it was planned to become a Special Administrative Region (瓊崖特別行
政區 ); in 1944, it became Hainan Special Administrative Region with 16 counties
containing the South China Sea Islands.
In 1988, when the island was made a separate province, it was designated a Special
Economic Zone in an effort to increase investment.
The central government funds were deemed insufficient by the Hainan authorities for
the construction of the island's other infrastructures (water works, power stations,
telecommunications, etc.) and had taken a very liberal interpretation of the economic and
trade regulations for Hainan and thirteen coastal cities; the regulations did not mention on
prohibiting the re-selling of second-hand goods. Some of the proceeds, from unsold units,
were later retrieved by the central government to re-finance the special district.
Economy:
Hainan's economy is predominantly agricultural, and more than a half of the island's
exports are agricultural products. Hainan's elevation to province-level status (1988),
however, was accompanied by its designation as China's largest "special economic zone",
the intent being to hasten the development of the island's plentiful resources.
Prior to this, the province had a reputation for being a "Wild West" area, largely
untouched by industrialization; even today there are relatively few factories in the
province. Tourism plays an important part of Hainan's economy, thanks largely to its
tropical beaches and lush forests.
The central government has encouraged foreign investment in Hainan and has
allowed the island to rely to a large extent on market forces.
Its nominal GDP for 2011 was 251.5 billion yuan (US$39.9 billion), making it the 4th
smallest in all of the PRC and contributes just 0.53% to the entire country's economy. At
that time, its GDP per capita was 19,166 yuan (US$2,805).
By the first quarter of 2010, Hainan had the highest increase in GDP of any province
in China, with a year-on-year increase of 25.1%. The GDP of Hainan's Qionghai city grew
58.7%.
In December 2009, the government of China announced that it plans to establish
Hainan as an "international tourist destination" by 2020. This announcement contributed to
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a surge in the province's economy, with a year-on-year increase in investment of 136.9% in

the first three months of 2010. Hainan's real estate sector accounted for more than one third
of the province's economic growth.
Geography:
Hainan, separated by the Qiongzhou Strait from the Leizhou Peninsula of Guangdong,
is the largest island administered by the People's Republic of China. The area of Hainan
Island (32,900 km2 (12,700 sq mi), 97% of the province) is similar to that of Belgium. To
the west of Hainan Island is the Gulf of Tonkin. Wuzhi Mountain (1,840 m) is the highest
mountain on the island. Hainan Island measures 155 km (96 mi) long and 169 km (105
mi) wide.
Figure 3.13 Hainan Map & Geography

Source: http://www.chinamaps.info/images/Province/Hainan.jpg
Landmarks:
Haikou is the province's capital and contains interesting historic sites. Also known as
Coconut City, Haikou is a major port. The Five Officials Temple (Chinese: 五公祠;
pinyin: Wŭgōng. Consists of five traditional temples and halls that were built in honor of
five officials of the Tang (618-907) and Song (960-1279) dynasties.
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Xiuying Fort Barbette was built in 1891 to defend the southeastern corner of China
during the Sino-French War. The Xiuying Fort Barbette covers about a third of an acre. Its
five large cannons are still intact and viewable at the site.
The Tomb of Hai Rui built after his death to commemorate his great works.
Construction of the tomb began in 1589.
The Yangpu Ancient Salt Field is a heritage site in Yantian village on Yangpu
Peninsula. The area comprises more than 1,000 stones, cut flat on top, used to dry seawater
to produce salt.
Other attractions and destinations:
Hainan Island has a number of beaches, hot springs and other attractions. Some top
scenic sites include Yalong bay National Resort; Dadonghai Tourist Resort; Qizhi Shan
(Seven Finger Mountain), Nuilin mountain tropical botanical reserve in Lingshui county,
Guantang Hot Spring Resort, Shishan Volcanic Garden; the Wanquan River, Baishi Ridge
Scenic Zone and Baihua Ridge.
Other attractions in Hainan include:
① Phoenix Island, an artificial archipelago currently under construction in Sanya
Bay.
② Xiangshui Bay Scenic Area, 48 kilometres (30 mi) from Sanya Tiandu.
③ Monkey Island, near the well-known perfume bay or Xiangshui Wan, a popular
tourist destination located in Lingshui County, is a state-protected nature reserve for
macaques.
④ Yalong Bay (Crescent Dragon Bay or Yalong Wan), a 7 kilometres (4.3 mi) long
beach east of Sanya City.
⑤ Luobi Cave, 15 kilometres (9.3 mi) north of Sanya City.
⑥ Nanshan Temple, a Buddhist cultural area west of Sanya featuring a 108 metres
(354 ft) Statue of Guanyin, Buddist Goddess of Mercy.
⑦ Yanoda is a rainforest area. It is open to visitors with guided walking tours.
Transportation:
Before 1950 there were practically no transportation links with the interior of the island.
The first roads were built in the early 20th century, but no major road construction was
undertaken in the mountains until the 1950s. Parallel north–south roads along the east and west
coasts and through the interior of the island constitute most of Hainan's road network.
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Today's Hainan is ringed by standard-gauge railways. From the ferry terminal, located
near Haikou Railway Station (west of Haikou), freight and passenger trains arriving from the
mainland can proceed on the Hainan Western Ring Railway along the island's west coast, via
Dongfang to Sanya. This railway line has been developed over several decades, starting with a
few short narrow gauge lines constructed during the Japanese occupation in the early 1940s.
The Hainan Eastern Ring High-Speed Railway links Haikou and Sanya along the island's
east coast. The total length of Hainan Eastern Ring High-Speed Railway is 308.11 km.The in-
between railway stations include Haikou East, Changliu, Xiuying, Meilan Airport, Wenchang,
Qionghai, Bo'ao, Wanning, Shenzhou, Sun and Moon Bay, Lingshui and Tiandu.
The first train run started on 30 December 2010 at the price of 114 RMB for first-class
seat and 95 RMB for a second-class seat for a full journey between Haikou and Sanya.
Figure 3.14 Hainan Transportation

Source: http://www.chinaspree.com/china-travel-guide/china-guangdong-hainan-tours.html
Another high-speed railway will be built on the west coast of Hainan, roughly
paralleling the existing Hainan Western Ring Railway. The future 345 km Hainan Western
Ring High-Speed Railway will link up with the Hainan Eastern Ring Railway at both ends,
thus forming a high-speed railway ring around the island.
Hainan Province has two international airports, both on Hainan Island: the Haikou
Meilan International Airport and Sanya Phoenix International Airport.
Seaports:
① Haikou Xiuying Port (海口秀英港) serves as the main passenger and cargo center.
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② Haikou New Port (海口新港) opened June 1, 2005

③ Macun Port (马村港) located in Chengmai County; opened June 1, 2005
④ Hainan Strait Port
⑤Basuo Port in Dongfang City is a small port on the west coast of Hainan. One of its
main cargos is iron ore from the Shilu Mine.
Hainan received 11,000 tons of products via ports November 2010, up 90.1 percent
month-on-month. Between January and November 2010, 102,000 tons of products were
exported via Hainan, 34,000 tons of which were exported to the US, and 14,000 tons sent
to the EU.
3.2.2 Tourism-led land-use and environment changes in Hainan province
Tourism has been often considered as an effective way to promote economic growth
for coastal areas in developing countries. As the most important tourist destination and the
largest Special Economic Zone in China, Hainan chose tourism-led development and
achieved rapid economic growth. This paper analyzes land-use changes driven by tourism-
led development and their environmental effects during a period of time from 1991 to 2007
in Sanya City, southern coastal region of Hainan Island. High-resolution remote sensing
and detailed socioeconomic data were used in the study. Based on a combination of remote
sensing and geographic information systems methods, a matrix of land-use change was
constructed to identify land-use changes between 1991 and 2007.
The outcomes indicate that the changes from farmland to construction land and from
forestland to orchard are the main transformation types. From 1991 to 2007, farmland and
forestland decreased by 15% and 29% respectively; on the contrary, construction land and
orchard increased by 242% and 258%. The transformation from farmland to construction
land mainly occurred in plains along the coastline, while the changes from forestland to
orchard mainly occurred in middle platform areas. Booming tourism not only led to the
increased demand for tourism infrastructure and rapid urban expansion, but also boosted
the demand for tropical fruit products quickly.
However, rapid increases of tourism infrastructures occupied large fertile farmland,
urban expansion caused construction land increase and farmland loss, and forest was
converted to orchard, driven by the high speed of market demand of fruit products.
Tourism-led development restructured the land-use pattern dramatically, which brought
about landscape fragmentation, vegetation degeneration, and coastal erosion. Irrational
tourism and land development have destroyed Sanya's tourism resources and dissipated its
initial advantage to some extent, which will hinder the sustainable development of tourism.
Finally, some suggestions are given to coordinate the tourism-led land development in
coastal regions.
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Figure 3.15 Geologic map of Hainan Island (after Atlas of Hainan Province, 1996)
Source: http://www.uoguelph.ca/geology/hainan/english/G/G05_L.htm
3.3 Tourism, Tourism Development, Urban Development and

Strategic Plans in Syrian Coast Region
3.3.1 Tourism
The Syrian coast consists of long beach’s up to 180 km, consists of green mountains
and foothills with Pine and oak trees. There are also many capes and bays along the coast
from the border with Turkey and to the border with Lebanon such as Al Bassit Cape. In the
western slope of the mountains of Latakia scattered villages and places of summer tourism
frequented by people for recreation like Slenfeh, Kassab, Salmah, Wadi Al Oyoon and
Safita.
Tourism growth
With improvement of land transport and services infrastructure, the coastal region in
general and its coastal cities and seafront in particular, became an attractive destination for
beach and mountain summer recreation, either for inland Syrians, Syrian expatriates
tourists or for car summer vacationers from other Arab countries. In addition to European
tourist groups most interested in visiting the archaeological sites.
In terms of spent tourist nights, national statistics shows that the governorate of
Latakia, the northern governorate of the two coastal ones in Syria, representing only 1.2%
of the whole national land area, is a major tourism and summering destination in the
country with a share of 10.2% of the total tourist nights reported in the year 2006.
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Beach tourist compounds already occupy long stretches of coastline south and north
of Tartous, north of Latakia, and at Ras El-Bassit far north of the coast, causing increasing
direct and indirect pressures on the marine and coastal environment. Mountain tourism is
contributing in forest clearance for building and services.
Natural factors:
① Climate
The wind: Western damp wind in the spring, summer and autumn deviated northeast
in late autumn and then northwesterly in late winter.
Temperature: Generally moderate in the Syrian coast, ranging from / 8 to33 /.
Humidity: Rise in the rate of relative humidity in the coastal region, in the winter is
60-70%, while the summer ranges from 70-80%.
Rain: The rain in this region is very heavy, up an average annual (1000 mm) and for
this reason, the territory is fertile and suitable for agriculture, and agriculture Winter does
not need watering, therefore that area exists the springs in abundance both permanent and
seasonal.
② Topography
Syrian coast region rise from the sea about / 200 m / located in the North Western
corner of the Syrian Arab Republic. It administratively divided into 9 regions: Al-Haffah -
Jableh - Latakia - Qardaha - mountainous area - Region Qardahah - Quilts area - Ash-
Shaykh Badr - Baniyas - Duraykish - Safita - Tartous.
③ Vegetation and Animals
Area is famous for the cultivation of citrus in the coastal flat, and Apples, cherries,
peaches, pomegranates and other fruits in the mountains. Kassab is famous for laurel and
pine forests, In Slenfeh oak forests and Cedar.
④ The spread of wild animals
They are also a variety such as: hyena, wolf, fox, mongoose, mole and hedgehog, wild
cat, Rabbit and the tortoise. They are also a variety of birds we can see: punishment,
Bashiq, partridge, blackbird, Alguenbr, league, nightingale, swallow, margarine, and
goldfinch.
⑤ Water surfaces
Latakia Governorate:
There are several lakes in the governorate of Latakia, including:
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Lakes:
1) Blloran Lake: Lake is surrounded by pine forests and their banks a range of
restaurants that offer popular dishes.
2) 16 October Lake: Located in about 15 km to the east of the city of Latakia on
Aleppo street in the northern big river In a natural site is surrounded by mountains and
high plateaus and a range of restaurants that provide services to the visitors.
3) The Thawra Lake: Located 25 km north east of Latakia on the road to the village of
Hara- Ein Tinah, beautiful natural site. These another lakes, but these more important,
visited by tourists to enjoy the beauty of the scene and spend the most enjoyable times in
the beautiful nature and its fresh air.
Rivers:
North Grand River- Kandeel River - Kubah Tash River - Sallour River – Kashkash
River - Madeeq River – Al Russ River - Ramlah River – Al Zurood River – Al Sin River-
Al Sanouber River- Al Jabalati River.
Dams:
Basil al-Assad Dam- Thawra Dam- Blloran Dam- Chrisana Dam- Jawziaa Dam-
Alhoiz Dam- Alqngerh Dam- House short- Salahuddin Dam- Quilts Dam- Kafr Dibble
Dam - Beit Rihan Dam- Khalifa Dam- Bhamra Dam- October 16 Dam.
There is a very important spring in the governorate of Latakia is Sinn Spring.
Tartus Governorate:
There is in the governorate of Tartous several lakes including:
Lakes:
1) Al Bassel Lake.
2) Surani Lake.
Rivers:
Al Balouta River- Al Abrash River –Al Ghamkah River-Al Arous River, Ein Sarkis,
Al Deron springs – Al Ghamkah spring.
There are also several springs:
Khalifa spring- Jouret Al Hussayen spring- Joeit spring- Sheikh Badr spring- Bnmrh
spring- Al Surani spring.
⑥ Unusual Natural Monuments
1) Lattakia Governorate:
Dalk Bash Cave- Yelfna Cave- Ein Alghara.
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2) Tartous Governorate:
Aldwayat Cave: Located 1700 m northeast of the town Mashta Elhelow, it’s name is
belong to the existence of light holes in the roof allows sunlight to seep, which give with
stalagmites and stalactites a wonderful picture inside the cave. It extends for a distance 250
m. The cave invested by Mashta Elhelow municipality.
Beit Alwadi Cave: Located in the town of Dwyer Raslan 18 km from Aldirikish
within of natural green area, where abounds, rivers and springs famous for cave balsed,
and chaos. The existence of a prolific spring and the large extension and is currently a
Lightening for a distance of 500 m and is characterized by the presence of large spaces and
spaces within reach to 3000 km².
3) Types of tourism:
a- Cultural tourism (tourist attractions and archaeological, historical and
civilization in the region):
Archaeological hills, sites and ancient cities:
4) Lattakia Governorate:
Old City: - Sheikh Dahir neighborhood :( This neighborhood reported in a document
dating back to 1116 AH corresponding to 1704 AD )- Alwiena neighborhood- Al Qalaah
neighborhood- Assabagheen neighborhood- Ashrafieh neighborhood- Saliba
neighborhood.
Latakia’s Khans: Khan Addukhan - Khan Albazaar – Khan Alhunta - Khan AlSham -
Khan Alkabeer – Khan Aljadeed – Khan Alsabagha - Khan Mohammad Abdullah Esreb.
Old markets: Souk Aldalalien- Souk Alhadadien- Souk Alattarien- Souk
Almubaydien - Souk Albazar - Souk Alswekah- Souk Altaweel- Souk Annabh- Souk
AlSagha- Souk Beit Aldaya.
Lattakia old Baths: Alkobba Bath (The oldest bath where dating back to Mamluk
period) – Alawafee Bath (Disappeared before the 1866 census)- Alkashani Bath- Alhaj
Khasem Bath- Alanaba Bath.
Old Tkaya and corners of Latakia: Al Fatahi Corner (Dating back to 690 AH turned
into a mosque in 1360 AH) - Sheikh Salem corner- Al Tekkia Al Moulowia.
Archaeological Jableh Stadium: Built in Roman period early the second century AD,
on flat ground in a circular shape, Its vault carry 35 rows of seats. The stadium absorbs
about / 7000 / spectators and it’s diameter about 90 m.
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Ugarit: This city is situated on important archaeological location far 15 km northen of

Latakia city. This area included of the second millennium BC around / 1300 / square miles.
This kingdom was known at the height of the throttle a great civilian expansion of where
the Canaanite people form the most important element among its inhabitants. Its period
back to the 14 century and 13 century BC.The hill wich Ugarit was built in known” Rass
Shimra”. The city of Ugarit is an active tourist’s places because of its historical
importance.
The most important sections that appear from Kingdom:
The remains of the castle on the west surface
Big Palace: area 10000 m², with ninety rooms.
Small Palace
Neighborhood of luxury housing, wide houses and breakthrough the streets
Southern District: a neighborhood of traders, professionals and craftsmen.
The north-western district: was one of the most important archaeological discoveries
in Ras Shimra.
Salah Al Din Castel: The castle consists of square and huge round towers rising from
the sea / 340 /m. This castle is a strategic castle because its location on a rocky cliff
surrounded by a natural trench of the three sides. Salah Al Din Castel located on the east of
the city of Latakia / 33 / km, and to the south-east of the city of Haffeh city / 3 / km.
Almneqa Castle: Located in Wadi Alqale village, far from Latakia city / 63 / km and /
37 / km from Jableh city. And there are still ruins of the fence from the southern and
eastern sides, and includes a Byzantine buildings, Occidental and Islamic. There are still
even today: (main tower - watch tower - a water tank and ladders - horse stables on the
ground floor - Soldiers rooms - well of blood) The length of the base of the castle / 41 / m
and thickness of walls / 220 / cm, the general surrounding / 489 / m. It is similar method
construction to Salah Al Din Castel.
Bani Qahtan Castle: Located on/ 20 / km to the east of Jableh city. It was built by
Byzantines approximately / 1030 AD / then occupied by the Crusaders in / 1111 AD / and
they constructed some fortifications, and stayed in it about twenty years. Then seized by
the inhabitants of the mountain and declared their submission to Salah Al Din. The castle
based on a hill rising from the sea / 360 / m.
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Syano: Syano Kingdom located (the remaining monuments) to the east of the Jableh
city about / 8 / km. This site is higher of the sea surface / 27 / m. The archaeological finds
indicate an active human activity since the sixth century BC.
Tel Sukas: Located on / 6 / km to the south of Jableh city, near the beachfront.
Tartous Governorate:
Amrit: Archaeological city located on / 7 / km in the southeast coastal of Tartous city,
and 700 meters away from the beach. Phoenician city dating back to the Middle Bronze
Age, and the amoryon named it Amrit. Arwad residents constructed Amrit against their
island when they ruled the coast. The most important monuments: the temple, the stadium
and the hill and the cemetery, spinners and slugs tower, its cemeteries that dedicated to the
kings of Arwad and Amrit and senior rich considered as rare evidence belong to the Syrian
coast.
Al Marqab Castle: Distinguished from other castles impregnable location and coastal
road controlled (Lattakia - Tartous). Rises from sea level / 370 / m, based on a high slope
while there in the east a deep valley constitutes as an impregnable barrier and natural
protector, the castle is surrounded by external wall which is defensive by provider towers.
Old City: Old Tartous is characterized by its wall and old water front, and many of the
traditional houses and Khans.
Arwad Island and its Castle: Arwad is the only inhabited island on the Syrian coast.
One of the most important monuments is the central castle dating back to the Crusades and
coastal castle known as the Ayoubiad tower, Othmanian bath which is located in the area
of the caves.
Yahmoor Castle: Known the Red Palace. It is a fortified tower surrounded by
rectangular wall. It was found on some of the coffins dating back to the Roman period.
Safita Tower: It is part of the Safita castle which built dates back to the Byzantine
period and rises /419/419/ m above sea level called the White Tower rises /28/m. It
consists of three floors, the first floor is a Church exercised religious rituals until now. This
building is characterized by the thickness wall /3-4/m.
Suliman Fortress: It is an archaeological fortress, first built back to Arwadain time
where it was expressing for them. There are evidences refer to its existence in the
Hellenistic period, then it is shifted to the temple of the god Zeus in the Roman period,
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current built back to the second and third centuries AD, and characterized by huge black
stones. In the north there are ruins of a church from the Byzantine period.
Banyas: Qadmous towards Misyaf (Aliqua Castle - Qadmous Castle – natural views) -
Cave Castle- Surani Dam- Shaykh Badr (Alderon - Joeit) towards Wadi Al Oyoun and Al
Duraykish.
b- Religious Shrines:
Lattakia Governorate:
1 - Islamic religious tourism:
Mosque of Sultan Ibrahim Ibn Adham / Jableh: Located in middle of Jableh. It is the
impact of historical and architectural heritage authentic. There is an old bath in the mosque
built after the mosque.
Al Batarni mosque- Al Kabeer mosque- Bazar mosque- Khashkash mosque- Al
Jadeed mosque- Mougrabi mosque- Al Rayes mosque- Al Ajjan mosque- Al kubah
mosque- Al Suliba mosque- Al Auaynah mosque Hamadeh Al Tunisy mosque.
1 - Islamic religious tourism:
Al Markeb mosque-Al Maowla Hassan shrine -Al Shaykh Hassan Al Badr shrine -
Maqam Al Sheikh Musa AlHakim –Badr Al Ghafeer Al Andalousey shrine - AL Nabi
Saleh shrine - Maqam Al Sheikh Mahmoud Al Qaseer- Maqam Tallet Al Khudr.
2 - Christian religious tourism:
Cave of Miriam Virgin: This cave dates back to the year 100 BC. It is named Al
Sayeda because Miriam appeared on one of the monks who were serving in this cave. It is
drilled in the rock. There are a lot of diggings on its surface were filled with water to serve
the monks to drink water. The cave located in /200/ m of Tartous Highway - Lattakia in the
Al Udima
Mar Elias shrine –Al Cicinia Church - Tartous Cathedral (museum) - Mar Elias Al
Reeh shrine- Mar Elias Aharhi shrine - Deir Alfaros - St. Nicholas Church - St. Georgios
Church – Allat Church.
c- Museums:
Latakia Museum: Located in the western city center opposite of commercial port
separated from it by Batarney garden. It was built by Othmanian late seventeenth century
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and early eighteenth century. It was used as headquarters for conservation and as a head
quarter and sale tobacco, called smoke Khan. Then it became property of Mr. Elias Murqus
Consul of Russia until 1870. In 1904, Mr. Ibrahim Nasri bought it. Then Othmanian
authorities seized it and made it the seat of the Othmanian declinable.
In 1918, the French government seized and converted residence of the French
Governor, in 1936, after the Syrian-French Treaty it became as envoy building. In 1980,
record such as archaeological building and became a museum in 1983, ground floor
consists of a group of cross decade halls to display artifacts. These halls include [Ugarit
Hall - Ibn Hani Hall - Classic - Islamic Art - Modern Art]. The second floor is French, it
consists of rooms and halls with special wooden ceilings and its square up to / 600 / m 2
Tartous Museum: This museum was built in the cathedral which was renewed in 1105
AD. It was a sacred church destroyed by an earthquake in 387 AD, and then re-created in
the twelfth century back to the Crusader period. It is a building with three entrances to four
vaulted corridors and two rectangular towers, includes an archaeological dating back to
various historical Periods, which passed through this area.
d- Beach and mountain tourism:
Ras Ibn Hani: To the north of the Latakia city, after ten kilometers located Ras Ibn
Hani, who go into the sea in the west to form a beautiful trail that has two beaches one of
them is a rocky and another is a sandy. Ibn Hani head had several names including Avo,
Ugarit sea, Perotti and Ibn Hani. The findings considered of this site universal value, it also
deepened our knowledge about Ugarit and its statehood and gave a perception
archaeological and historical for Canaanite civilization and Mediterranean region.
Ras Al Baseet: It was an important Canaanite port, the last discovered of money back
to the Hellenistic period and a little before the Islamic Arab conquest. this site displaced in
1268 m after the Crusader invasion, Ras Al Baseet now is a wonderful tourist site.
There are a group of islands submerged around Al Abbas Island (four islands) and a
depth of no more than 2.5 m, can establish tourism projects attached to them.
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Figure 3.16 The current situation of the tourism sector

Source: The touristic study of regional planning project of LATTAKIA
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Figure 3.17 Latakia Top Tourist Attractions

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e- Ecotourism (Nature Reserves):

Latakia Governorate:
There are many natural reserves:
Fir and Cedar reserve: Slenfeh street / 1350 ha / scientific nature with tourist and the
possibility of exploitation for the purposes of scientific research and Ecotourism.
Frenlq reserve: Highway Latakia, lands of great river is bordered to the east, and
south the lands of the green village / 1500 ha / scientific nature and tourist forest.
Uam Al Toyour Protected: It is bordered on the north and east by the lighthouse, on
the south by Issawiyya land, and Mediterranean see from the west, its area about / 1000 /
ha. An environmental forestry protected.
Ras Al Baseet reserve: Agricultural land of Deflah village from the north, the
lighthouse from the south, its area / 3000 he /, a purely scientific nature of some sites.
In the province, there are many lakes, dams and rivers where normal life, animal and
plant exist, including:
Mashkita: Syriac word meaning irrigated land, famous for heavily springs that
emanate from inside the ground to the nearby slopes of the village. The nearby residents to
the time dependent on those springs for drinking and irrigating plantings, which are many,
including: Ein beer - Alnbuah, Ein Al Ghaseel some of them are still being used for
agriculture and it has a good taste. Mashkita is located on the northeast of Latakia on a flat
land, risen 253 m above sea level, and about 23 km away via Kassab highway.
Al Safsaf: Is located on the western bank of 16 October Lake, and lies about 22 km
from the Latakia city. It is accessible from Mashkita tourist route witch linked with Latakia
– Kassab Street. The area has wizard beauty and distinctive properties in terms of
panoramic, direction and reflection on the surface water of the lake, in addition to the
simple rural elements and traditions and habits witch essential in this area and still
maintained in it.
Thawra Lake: Beautiful natural site located from / 25 / km north-east of Latakia on
the road of Al Hara Ein Al Tinah village.
There are many natural reserves:
Al Nabi Mattah Forest – Forest of Mashta Mountain- Al Sharaa -Tallah Forest-Al
Surani Forest - Ouja Forest -Kfarieh Forest- Joeit Forest.
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f- Leisure tourism:
There are many important touristic sites, including:
Burj Islam Beach: Is a Special marine site famous for its beauty white rocks and the
beautiful beach- Ras Al Baseet- Ras Ibn Hani- Uam Al Toyour Beach- Al Sanouber
Beach- Bassa Beach- The Blue Beach.
Golaen Sand Beach- The Sail Beach...
3.3.2 Tourism Development
The Syrian coastal aspiration
① Tourism sector has been ranked as a top priority in the Syrian developmental
policies and plans. The tenth five‐year development plan for the years 2006‐2010 has
reflected this trend through emphasizing on various goals including the following:
② Syria is to be a tourist destination with international and regional sustainable
developing position.
③ Tourism to contribute as a strategic industry in improving the general competitive
advantages of the national economy, and to realize a balanced regional development.
④ The social, economical and environmental effects of tourism development process
are to be improved.
⑤ Tourism is to be functioned as an actuator for achieving balanced regional
development and upgrading living standards in the less developed regions in the country
which possess tourism resources.
⑥ The function of natural and cultural constituents of tourism is to be magnified
towards a planned tourist product that integrates its components (historical and natural
sites, etc.) with tourism infrastructure, adding various tourist activities.
⑦ Arab investments in tourism projects that serve Arab tourists are to be promoted.
1) Increasingly of late, and in line with the tourism and economic strategy, the
seafront of the Syrian coastal region is attracting native and Arab real estate and tourism
investments, either within or outside the administrative boarders of cities and localities.
These investments may negatively affect the natural attractiveness of the coast through loss
of open space, open coastline and green lands, in favor of built construction, changing the
type and nature of seafronts and spoiling the harmony of natural and socio‐cultural
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traditional environments. This contradiction needs to be addressed from a sustainable

development perspective.
2) Therefore, although it is of extreme importance to further promote coastal tourism,
a sustainable approach must be supported. Innovation in services and products is an
important element for moving in this direction.
3) In this connection there is a need to promote and support developments related to
marine and coastal heritage (natural, cultural, historical) with a focus on generating
products, services and information that are fit (in content and format) to enhance the role of
environmental tourism and to improve the competitiveness of the coastal zone. This by
turn requires an integration of economic, social and marine policies. Here lies a challenge
in adequately translating natural and cultural heritage into tourist products that are
supported by scientifically sound data and information and that can be managed within the
social and environmental carrying capacity of Syria's coastal zone.
4) Tourism development constitutes an additional pressure on the environment in
those sectors of the Syrian coast that are already in use for ports, harbors, commercial
fisheries, and urban expansion such as the city of Latakia and its surrounds. Furthermore,
the tendency of a tourism developer to seek out new unspoiled sites, away from already
congested beaches and towns, contributes to the trend leading towards urbanization of the
entire coastline.
5) However, efforts for an integrated approach in coastal tourism policy should be
extended to support sustainable tourism development, including, but not limited to, the
development of criteria and guidelines for eco‐tourism, support mechanisms to promote
the labeling of quality for tourist accommodation, products and services (e.g. ISO14001),
local development schemes on the ground and providing support (expertise, data, etc.) for
sustainable tourism development.
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Figure 3.18 Tourism potential in Latakia

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① Most important current and target tourism products:

1) Beach tourism (the beaches of the Mediterranean Sea in Latakia and Tartous)
2) Tourism in the summer Mashta Al Helow - Kassab – Aum Al Toyuor - Mashqita -
Banias...
3) A tour to the archaeological coastal areas.
4) Visit museums in Tartous and Latakia.
5) Agro-tourism in the coastal orchards and orchards.
6) Tourism caves in the Beit Al Wadi and Aldwayat caves.
7) Horse riding, animals and bicycles tourism in the mountainous areas and coastal
forests.
② Operational plan of the Ministry of Tourism to develop the tourism product
in the coastal region:
1) Focusing to the efforts of official promotional and marketing within all marketing and
promotional tools that available to support the monitoring of the target with the necessary
funds for that.
2) Considered the untapped beaches areas such as an integrated tourism development.
3) Supporting the legislation and regulations to establish tourism products and activities (
Tourism boats and floating restaurants on the beach- Various marine sports ( Diving, yacht,
Sailing )- explore tours the forests and natural reserves- Establishment presentations and art
concerts in archaeological sites- Establishment connection between coastal and mountain areas
by cable car- Mountain sports ).
4) Activate and support domestic tourism ( where the working to encourage the
establishment of apartments hotels and the hotels of grades that suit this kind of tourism and
qualifying furnished apartments and chalets ).
3.3.3 Urban development
The maritime setback where construction is not allowed shall be extended from 75
meters currently to not less than 100 meters from the highest winter waterline, and to be
further extended according to specific coastal topographic studies in areas likely to be
directly and negatively affected by climate change and natural risks. This setback may be
properly adapted for some projects of public interest that could not be erected behind, or
for some coastal sectors having particular geographical or other local constraints.
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Figure 3.19 Orientations of maritime transport

Source: The Directorate of regional planning in Syria
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① Transport and infrastructure

1) Apart from the protected areas, open areas in which urban development and other
activities are restricted or where necessary prohibited, shall be identified and delimitated
within coastal governorates' spatial plans.
2) The linear extension of urban development and the creation of new land transport
infrastructure along the coast shall be avoided where possible.
3) Urban and transport development plans will respect environmentally sensitive
corridors between the coast and its hinterland (such as watercourses, wetland and
landscape).
4) The integrity of urban settlements will be protected by identifying areas of open
landscape between urban areas to be protected from development.
5) Appropriate land on the inland side of existing urban areas to accommodate the
forecast growth will be identified.
6) The protection of the coastal zone in general and the coastline in particular, shall be
an essential component of municipalities' mandate that should be identified within the
relevant master plans.
7) A high level of protection of the environment in the selection of location and the
operation of agricultural and industrial activities and services facilities (including
wastewater treatment plants) shall be guaranteed so as to preserve coastal ecosystems and
landscapes and prevent pollution of the sea, water, air and soil.
② Environmental Compensation
1) Appropriate environmental measures in the form new or restored wetlands,
protected marine and land areas etc. will be required to compensate for the loss of natural
features from unavoidable development.
2) Infrastructure, energy facilities, ports and maritime works and structures shall be
subjected to strict environmental authorization and control so that their negative impact on
coastal ecosystems, landscape and geomorphology is minimized.
③ Protecting the integrity of coastal landscapes
1) Development shall not block access to the coast or restrict coastal views.
2) The historic and cultural identity of the coast shall be respected in the style and
scale of new development.
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④ Protecting Coastal Economic Assets and Potential

1) He coast will be protected from development that might prejudice the ability of
essential economic activities requiring a waterfront location uses to expand or adapt (these
include ports, marine industries, fisheries etc.).
2) Adaptation of the coastal and maritime economy to the fragile nature of the coastal
zone and protection of marine and coastal resources from pollution shall be ensured.
3) Codes of good practice among public authorities, economic actors and social
organizations shall be promoted e.g. encouraging major economic actors to obtain ISO
14001 under which organizations will:
a. implement, maintain and improve an environmental management system;
b. assure conformance with their own stated environmental policy ;
c. demonstrate conformance;
d. ensure compliance with environmental laws and regulations;
e. seek certification of its environmental management system by an external third
party organization.
4) Maritime economic activities shall be conducted in such a manner that ensures the
fullest possible preservation of marine and coastal ecosystems in conformity with the rules,
standards and procedures of the relevant international conventions. Specific attention shall
be accorded to full integration of the stipulations of relevant regional and international
instruments and strategies into the national legislative and regulatory frameworks, with
upgrading the implementing institutional set‐ups.
⑤ Access
1) The right of free access by the public to the sea and along the shore, except of
strictly protected sites for safety, security, or the protection of natural and cultural
resources, shall be respected.
2) The movement and parking of land vehicles, as well as the movement and
anchoring of marine vessels, in fragile natural areas on land or at sea, including beaches
and dunes, shall be restricted or, where necessary, prohibited. These areas shall be
identified by authorized scientific and technical bodies.
3.3.4 Strategic plans
① Current tourists and Targeted tourists
1) Current tourists:
About 868.830 tourists visit the region annually, constitute almost 16% of tourists in
Syria, according to the statistics in 2008, except for domestic tourism, where the Syrian coast
visited by a large number of tourists from all Syrian governorates.
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2) Targeted tourists:
Ministry of Tourism aims to increase the number of tourists to the double during the next
five years to become the 1,600,000 tourists, and support investments which covers the size of
the expected demand, compared to an average increase of tourists amounting to 15% per
annum right now as well as increased tourism activity days by offering employment programs
ensure the working out of touristic seasons.
② The Syrian vision statement towards coastal future
“The future of Syria's coast is visualized as healthy, clean, safe and attractive coast that
sustains the best possible quality of life for current and future generations; where people can
enjoy economic prosperity that also secures good social, cultural, environmental and health
care standard conditions for all people.”
1) The future of Syria's coastal zone can be visualized as one which is:
a. Healthy – free from pollution; air and soil pollution, solid wastes and coastal litters,
surface and ground waters pollution, marine pollution either from maritime sources or land‐
based sources, providing a healthy environment for residents, visitors, fishery resources and
wildlife.
b. Attractive – attractive to visitors, investors and to local people to promote a self‐
sustaining cycle of development, growth and job creation.
c. Resilient – resilient to the future uncertainties of climate change including sea level
rise, warming and drought, resilient to natural processes; extremes of storms, earthquakes,
Stalinization, erosion and desertification, resilient to human processes including the pressures
of tourism, industry, transportation and urban development.
d. Productive – productive financially, in traditional, modern and future economic sectors,
supporting the national economy, supporting the economic aspirations of the coastal
community, competitive, high in value, increasing GDP, alleviating poverty.
e. Diverse – diverse in ecological terms; rich mosaic of marine and terrestrial ecosystems,
diverse in experiential terms; blue and green, wild, rural and urban landscapes, traditional and
modern lifestyles.
f. Distinctive – distinctive culturally as a Levantine coast; in architecture, traditions and
landscapes recognizing the Mediterranean as the "cradle of civilization", distinctive in
marketing; widely providing specific images when mentioned.
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Fifure 3.20 Tourism Strategy

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Figure 3.21 Eight touristic axes in Tartus

Source: Tourism Directorate in Tartus
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③ National And Sub-National Plans, Projects And Studies Related To (ICZM)

And (CAMP).
In the context of Integrated Coastal Zone Management in Syria, the following actions
are relevant:
ICZM Policy Brief ‘Towards a Strategy for Syria’s coast’ (2008).
CAMP ‘Syrian Coastal Region’ (1988 – 2004);
a/ ICZM Policy Brief ‘Towards a Strategy for Syria’s coast’ (2008)
In 2008 an ICZM Policy Brief ‘Towards a Strategy for Syria’s coast’ was developed
in the framework of the SMAP program as a first step to achieve a sustainable
development strategy for Syria’s coast called “Coast 2025”.
b/ CAMP ‘Syrian Coastal Region’ (1988 – 2004)
The high degree of coastal and marine pollution resulting from urban and industrial
development led to the development of a Coastal Area Management Program (CAMP) for
Syria in 1988. This attempt for an integrated management of the coastal region, supported
by UNEP-MAP and Syrian authorities, was mainly focused on the inland coastal strip. The
program ended in 1994. This table presents an overview of the main results.
④ Potential ICZM project areas

Local areas under the most intensive competitive pressures from development,
recreation and other uses will be identified and management program implemented to
reconcile these pressures in cooperation with local communities.
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⑤ Tourism
Sustainable coastal tourism, sporting and recreational activities that preserves coastal
ecosystems, natural resources, landscape, cultural heritage, and respects the local traditions
shall be encouraged, including the promotion of specific forms of coastal tourism such as
cultural, rural and ecotourism, and regulating or, where necessary, prohibiting the practice
of damaging sporting and recreational activities.
⑥ The main conclusions of the tourism policy brief are:
A strategic integrated approach to spatial planning of the coastal area is still absent;
lack of scientific data, reliable statistics along with inadequate identification or diagnosis
of problems weakens planning in general and in tourism planning as a special;
low level of environmental awareness of tourism by both the public and the
administrations, although the country faces a high degree of pollution; undervaluation of
the coastal zone; Low degree of public participation in policy making, including social and
academic sensitivity to coastal tourism issues.
⑦ Administrative arrangements, duties and responsibilities
1) National
a. The current ICZM Inter‐Ministerial Committee shall continue its functions until
the formation of the proposed National Steering Board that shall lead and monitor the
whole ICZM process.
b. The Ministry of State for Environmental Affairs shall centralize all ICZM
executive and coordination roles until the set‐up of the proposed supreme body which
will undertake the coastal functions stipulated in the proposed coastal law.
2) Regional
a. At regional (coastal) level, ICZM executive coordination between terrestrial and
maritime authorities shall be established through a three‐party committee composed of
high level representatives from Latakia governorate, Tartous governorate, and the General
Directorate of Ports.
b. The committee shall keep the Ministry of State for Environmental Affairs, as well
as the IMC, informed, on regular basis, on the progress in discharging its functions.
3) Local
a. Reporting to the Governor, an ICZM extended committee shall be established in
each of Latakia and Tartous governorates, involving local stakeholders in coastal planning,
decision making, controlling and implementation monitoring functions.
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b. The governors of the two coastal governorates shall keep the Ministry of State for
Environmental Affairs, as well as the IMC, informed, on regular basis, on the progress in
ICZM at the local level.
4) Experience
Success and failure experiences shall be duly considered by the legal technical
committee that shall draft the proposed coastal law, in order to formulate the long term
most efficient ICZM administrative functions and institutional setups.
⑧ Towards ICZM in Syria
The Government of the Syrian Arab Republic is determined to initiate and actuate a
process that translates the Syrian ICZM vision into definite targets. These targets are to be
methodically achieved by developing the national policy according to (and in adaptation
with) the new orientations that support fulfillment of the obligations incurred from Syria's
signatory on January 2008 to the 7th Protocol of Barcelona Convention on Integrated
Coastal Zone Management.
In this context, the targets could be classified into:
a. Short term goals, and;
b. Strategic goals
⑨ Short-term goals (2 years)
1) To introduce the ICZM concept and requirements into the 11th Five year National
Development Plan for the years 2011‐2015, the preparation for which has just been
initiated, so as to involve ICZM rules and policies into the sectorial plans for each
concerned Ministry or public body, with a harmonizing role to be played in this process
jointly by State Planning Commission and the Ministry of State for Environmental Affairs.
2) To hold a well prepared National Coastal Conference that will outline coherent
policies for coastal environmental protection and sustainable development, discuss and
adopt the national policy, strategy, and goals for ICZM. A subcommittee reporting to the
Minister of State for Environmental Affairs to be established for conference preparations.
3) To establish an extended National Steering Board, entrusted with necessary power
by the Council for Environment Protection and Sustainable Development headed by the
Prime‐Minister that shall lead and monitor the whole ICZM process, composed of high
level representatives from:
Central bodies:
a. Ministry of State for Environmental Affairs;
b. Ministry of Local Administration;
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c. State Planning Commission;

d. Ministry of Transport;
e. Ministry of Housing and Construction;
f. Ministry of Irrigation;
g. Ministry of Agriculture and Agrarian Reform;
h. Ministry of Industry;
i. Ministry of Oil and Mineral Resources;
j. Ministry of Tourism;
k. Ministry of Culture;
l. Ministry of Economy and Commerce;
m. Ministry of Electricity.
Coastal local bodies:
a. The 2 coastal governorates (Latakia and Tartous);
b. The 2 Environmental Directorates in the coastal governorates;
c. General Directorate of Ports;
d. City councils of the 4 major coastal cities (Latakia, Jableh, Banias and Tartous)
e. Academic and research institutions: (Tishreen University, General Commission for
Remote Sensing).
Private Sector:
f. Chambers of Commerce and Industry in the two coastal governorates;
g. Coastal region's Chamber of Tourism.
Civil Society:
h. Environment protection societies in the coastal region;
i. General Union of Peasants;
j. Fishermen societies.
4) Under the direction of this national steering board, set a long term comprehensive
national strategy with a panoramic coastal vision to harmonize sectoral activities, as well
as national and sectorial plans for sound integrated coastal zone management accompanied
by performance indicators.
5) To properly consider ICZM rules and policies during the current preparation of the
regional plans for the two coastal governorates, as a necessary step towards a long‐term
spatial planning for land and seafront uses in the coastal zone, with consideration of its
economic, social and environmental interactions with the hinterland, and with the whole
country, cross‐borders and overseas. The Regional Planning office of the Ministry of
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Local Administration to raise quarterly reports on progress and achievements to the

national steering board.
⑩ Strategic goals
To enact a coastal law which shall identify the geographic parameters of the coastal
zone, outline the protective and upgrading stipulations to be applied, define a supreme
body that will oversee the management of this zone, and delimitate competencies between
the different central and local authorities and administrations. A legal technical drafting
committee, reporting to ICZM national steering board, shall be established for this
purpose. (Estimated timeframe for achievement: 2012)
To set‐up the supreme body (mentioned in the preceding paragraph 19.7) and build
‐ up its capacity of human and financial resources as appropriates to discharge its
functions as stipulated in the proposed coastal law. (Estimated timeframe for achievement:
2012)
To set ‐ up mechanisms for following ‐ up, monitoring, reporting to the ICZM
national steering board and the Council for Environment Protection and Sustainable
Development headed by the Prime‐Minister. (Estimated timeframe for achievement:
2012)
The Syrian government shall enforce in the coastal region the anti ‐ pollution
measures adopted in various strategies and action plans, particularly the National
Environmental Strategy and Action Plan (2003) and the National Action Plan and Sectoral
Plans for the Reduction of Pollutants Releases from Land Based Sources in the Coastal
Region (2005), which have been adopted by the Council for Environment Protection and
Sustainable Development in the year 2008. (Estimated timeframe for achievement: as
specified in each plan; 2010 - 2025)
To promote regional and international cooperation in marine and coastal issues within
the framework of Barcelona Convention and its Protocols and other relevant frameworks,
(Estimated timeframe for achievement: continuous process).
At this stage, the above goals are of a flexible indicative nature and will be subject to
wider and deeper discussions with other decision‐makers and stakeholders within the
proposed coastal conference to be held as an essential activity within the aforementioned
short term goals.
However, the conclusion of the IMC meetings had introduced ambitious, but realistic,
vision and policy, that could positively affect the future of the economic, social and
environmental situation not only in the coastal zone itself but countrywide as well.
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The Syrian inputs in this regard will also form an important contribution to joint
efforts of the Mediterranean countries for protecting the future of their common sea;
enabling Syria to better fulfill its obligations stemming from the Barcelona Convention and
its Protocols, including the necessary preparations to meet at national level the provisions
and requirements of the 7th Protocol on Integrated Coastal Zone Management.
3.3.5 Conclusion
While, projects were only included in the strategic plans in Syrian Coastal Region
while the in between plans were only an extension and continuation of the projects,
objectives and ideas. Meanwhile, the projects introduced worked as the foundations for the
objectives that should be achieved by the strategic lines, objectives and sub-objectives.
Also, the assessment policy which is followed to stand up to the new problems and
challenges, and keep the strategic lines in the correct path without deviation from the main
objectives, is essential and successful. This assessment was missing in the Syrian case
which may cause random development and strategies which sometimes define new
objectives deviated away from the main aims.
3.4 Tourism, Tourism Development, Urban Development and

Strategic Plans in Hainan province
3.4.1 Tourism
Hainan is a popular tourist destination in China, known as "the Oriental Hawaii". It is
located at similar latitude to other established tropical tourism resort destinations such as
Hawaii, Miami in Southern Florida and Porto Rico, and with natural qualities similar to
these locations. Haikou, the capital city of Hainan, is located in the northern part of the
Island. It is the political, economic, and cultural and transportation centers of the province.
Sanya, located in the southernmost part of the Island, has established itself to be the most
popular tropical tourist city in China in light of its high concentration of international brand
resort hotels.
① Tourism growth
In December 2009, China’s state council announced ambitious plans for Hainan – the
largest special economic zone (SEZ) in China and its only tropical island province – to
elevate it into a world-class international tourism destination by 2020.
Despite the challenging economic environment, Hainan is well on track to achieve
this goal. WTTC’s economic impact research, conducted in association with Oxford
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Economics, indicates that progress – in terms of Travel & Tourism’s contribution to

economic growth– has been extremely impressive over the past few years. And our
forecasts suggest the growth is set to continue.
With 12.6% average annual growth in tourism expenditure (visitor exports) expected
over the 10-year period 2011 to 2021 (or 16.4% in nominal terms), Hainan is predicted to
outperform all the world’s national economies by this measure, with visitor spending
reaching Rmb110.8 billion (79.9%) by 2021. This rapid growth would propel Hainan into
first place in WTTC’s League Table rankings – in terms of 10-year annual real growth.
The main driver of this growth will be Travel & Tourism investment, which is already
estimated to have reached Rmb76.3 billion, or 50.9% of total capital investment, in 2011.
This should rise by 9.5% per annum to reach Rmb189.1 billion – or 53.2% of total
investment – by 2021. This massive investment in infrastructure, hotels and resorts, as well
as in product development, coupled with a commitment by the Hainan Provincial
Government to focus on Travel & Tourism as a strategic priority, should continue to drive
leisure and business travel demand, firmly establishing Hainan at the centre of the world
tourism stage.
Nevertheless, there is no room for complacency, especially given the continuing
economic uncertainties in many of the world’s leading Travel & Tourism source markets.
While the Hainan Provincial Government clearly recognizes Travel & Tourism’s strategic
importance, every effort must be made to nurture the industry to ensure it develops
sustainably. As detailed in this report, it will require careful monitoring and control on the
part of the government, not to mention close collaboration with the municipal authorities
and the private sector.
WTTC stands ready to work with you to help you achieve your vision – for the
benefit of all Hainanese, as well as for your province’s Travel & Tourism industry and the
many millions of tourists who flock to your shores.
On behalf of WTTC’s Members, many of whom are already becoming key
stakeholders in Hainan’s Travel & Tourism, I congratulate you on your achievements so
far and wish you every success for the future.
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② Hainan’s Attractions
1) China’s smallest and southernmost province
Hainan is the smallest province of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) in terms of
land mass, but the largest including its marine territory, which comprises some 200 islands
scattered among three archipelagos off the southern coast, extending to the Paracel (Xisha)
and southern Spratly Islands, and other (disputed) marine islands. Nevertheless, 97% of its
land mass is Hainan Island (Hainan Dao), from which the province takes its name.
Separated from Guangdong’s Leizhou Peninsula to the north by the shallow and
narrow Qiongzhou Strait, China’s southernmost province covers an area of 33,920 square
kilometers and has a population of some 8.8 million. Hainan Island includes eight major
cities and ten counties. Haikou, on the northern coast, is the capital (population 830,000)
while Sanya (around 580,000) is the most popular tourism destination, located on the south
coast. The other major cities are Wenchang, Qionghai, Wanning, Wuzhishan, Dongfang,
Danzhou and Boao.
2) More than just sun and beaches
Sandy beaches make up about 50-60% of Hainan Island’s 1,528-kilometre coastline,
with the majority up to hundreds or thousands of meters wide, stretching gently into the
ocean. Located alongside an unruffled sea, with crystal-clear water at temperatures of
between 18˚C and 30˚C, in bright and abundant sunlight, most of its beaches are ideal for
year-round swimming, sunbathing and water- and beach-based sports and other activities.
Among these is surfing, which is excellent on the east coast at Riyue Beach and
Shimei Bay, Wanning, 112 kilometers north of Sanya and 139 kilometers south of Haikou
on the east coast of the island. This whole area is considered to be such an ideal surfing
spot, in fact, that it was selected to be the host this year of China’s first ever world-
sanctioned professional surfing event, organized by the Regional Association of Surfing
Professionals (ASP).
Along the eastern coast there are also mangroves and coral reefs unique to tropical
coastal regions, which attract divers from around the region and, increasingly, long-haul
markets.
3) Hainan boasts a rich variety of natural resources and attractions
But Hainan Island is much more than just sun, beaches and water sports. The island is
also noted
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For its singularly shaped volcanic mountains, many of which are tourist attractions
themselves, as well as summer resorts. The mountains are covered in dense tropical
primeval forests, such as the four best-known virgin forest regions of Mount Jianfeng in
the country of Ledong County, Mount Bawang in Changjiang, Mount Diaoluo in Lingshui
and Mount Wuzhi in Qiongzhong.
Hainan Island is criss-crossed by limpid rivers. Winding streams, deep pools, stunning
waterfalls and mirror-like reservoirs dotted in the mountains and virgin forests enhance the
landscape and provide major attractions for tourists. Past volcanic eruptions have left many
craters on the island, two of which are located on Mount Shuangling with an elevation of
over 200 meters in Shishan, Qiongshan City. The nearby craters of Leihuling and
Luojingpan are also well preserved. In addition, there are a number of ‘karst’ caves, such
as the wellknown Luobi (Pen-dropping) Cave in Sanya, Qianlong (Thousand Dragon)
Cave in Baoting County and Huangdi (Emperor) Cave in Changjiang.
Hot springs can also be found across the island. Due to their low mineralisation, high
temperatures, large flows and consistent quality, many of the hot-spring waters have
curative properties. Moreover, they are all located in places with attractive landscapes,
providing excellent conditions for developing holiday resorts for combined
tourism/sightseeing and medical or wellness treatments.
Figure 3.22 Top Tourist Attractions Map of Hainan

Source: http://www.chinatouristmaps.com/travel/hainan/province/hainnan-top-sites.html
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4) Including wildlife, flora and fauna

To protect rare birds and animals, several wildlife reserves have been established in
Hainan, including the Bawangling Black-crested Gibbon Reserves in Changjiang County,
the Datian Slope Deer Reserve in Dongfang, the Dazhou Isle Esculent Swift Reserve in
Wanning City, and the Macaque Reserve on the Nanwan Peninsula in Lingshui County,
known as Nanwan Monkey Island.
Established in 1965, Monkey Island is now home to more than 2,000 macaques. Its
popularity is due to its namesake primates – and it is China’s largest area for raising and
training monkeys – although 100 other species of animals and several hundred species of
native plants make the island more than just a tourist trap. Monkey Island also has the
longest over-water cable car in China, spanning 2,138 meters.
5) A rich historical and cultural heritage
The island has many interesting historical – and historic –sites, such as the Wugong
(Five Revered Officials) Temple in memory of five renowned court officials of the Tang
(960-1279) and Song (618-907) Dynasties who were relegated to Hainan Island. Before
Hainan became a province in its own right, it was a naval base and strictly off limits. And
in days of yore, it was a place of exile for criminals and disgraced officials who dared
criticize the emperor.
Changsha Town, Wenchang, was the birthplace of Charles Soong who rose to become
one of the most prominent people in China during the early Republic of China era (1912-
1949). He was also the father of three daughters who all achieved international fame. The
eldest, Soong Ai Ling, married Confucian descendant HH King, the richest man in China
at the time and a minister in the Republican Government in the 1940s.
One of her sisters, Soong Ching Ling, married the Sun Yat Sen, the first President of
China following the Xinhai Revolution of 1911. And the third, Soong Mei Ling – perhaps
the most famous of all outside China –married Chiang Kai-shek, one of the most renowned
political and military leaders of 20th Century China.
Another extremely popular cultural attraction is Nanshan Culture Tourism Zone,
located on the coast 40 kilometers southwest of Sanya City. Visitors flock to the area,
drawn by the beauty of Nanshan Mountain, but also to see the imposing three-sided Kuan-
yin Bodhisattva Buddha statue, completed in 2005, and which is 16 meters taller than New
York’s Statue of Liberty. The cultural zone also features three theme parks with
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ornamental gardens and temples: Buddhism Culture Park, Blessing and Longevity Park,
and Hainan Custom Culture Park.
6) Dongzhai Harbour Mangrove Nature Reserve
The Dongzhai Harbour Mangrove Natural Reserve is a new tourist attraction
showcasing some 159 bird species, including many rare migratory birds. It is not only a
national mangrove reserve, but is also a wetland of international importance especially as a
waterfowl habitat. During the winter, the best season for bird watching in Dongzhai
Harbour, tens of thousands of birds turn the area into a wonderland. Because of the
nourishment the mangroves provide to the swamp, marine animals prefer to spawn and
raise their infants here, enjoying the abundant fish, shrimp and shellfish.
The harbour also boasts another natural wonder: villages under the sea. According to
historical documents, there was a severe earthquake in 1605 which resulted in 72 villages
subsiding into the sea. These have become an amazing underwater sight for divers and
even snorkelers.
3.4.2 Tourism Development
① Current Developments
The full list of projects planned for the 12th Five-year Plan (2011-2015) in Hainan
Province is provided in Appendix III. They cover infrastructure and resort superstructure to
shopping centers, cultural tourism projects and tourism attractions and facilities, including
an artificial ski slope/centre and an underwater sea world. Many of these projects will not
be completed before the end of the five-year period but the majority should be open and/or
be operational by 2020 – assuming they all go ahead. The total combined cost of the 64
projects is Rmb372.5 billion.
During the 12th Five-year Plan period itself, some 15 key tourism resort zones and 63
five-star and higher-category hotels are due to be completed. Current tourism trends,
coupled with the growing demand from investors and developers, suggest that the target
may well be exceeded.
Among the 15 resort areas, three will include theme parks, respectively for aviation
(at the Wenchang Space Centre), the oceans and movies (both in Haitang Bay). In addition
to Haitang Bay, the main areas for resort development are: Yalong Bay, Lingshui Qingshui
(Clearwater) Bay, Wanning Shenzhou Peninsula, Ledong Longmu Bay, Changjiang Qizi
Bay, Wenchang Tongguling, Wanning Shimei Bay, Lingshui Xiangshui Bay, the Boao
Forum for Asia permanent site, Haikou Meilisha and the west coast, and Haikou Longwan.
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With regard to the 63 five-star and higher-category hotels, 20 are due to be developed
in Haitang Bay National Coastal Tourist Resort, nine in Changjiang Qizi Bay Tourist
Resort on the west coast of Hainan), six in Qingshui Bay Tourist Resort, five in both
Tongguling Ecotourism Resort and Longmu Bay Tourist Resort, and the rest elsewhere. By
the end of the five-year period, in 2015, Hainan Island will have more than 100 five-star-
plus hotels– making it one of the most upscale tourism-intensive resorts in the world.
There are currently 36 official ‘scenic spots’ on Hainan Island rated at A level or
above, including two AAAAA, 13 AAAA and 15 AAA sites. A further eight to ten
AAAAA statelevel scenic areas and sightseeing spots will reportedly be completed by
2015. Two of the most high-profile developments are:
1) Hainan’s Space Theme Park and Launch Centre, Wenchang
In order to maximise the tourism potential of the development of China’s fourth space
launch site being developed in Hainan, the government is also building a Space Theme
Park five times larger than the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The park, in Wenchang
City, on Hainan’s northeast coast, will be the first space tourism attraction in China,
offering visitors the chance to experience the wonders of space.
The site will include a 4D Motion Theatre, IMAX Dome Theatre, Firing Simulator,
Aerospace museum, Moon Golf Course, lunar exploration theatre, astronaut spaceship and
the Mars Red Adventure Centre. This will also be an important academy for the next
generation of space explorers with key training centers to be established on this site. The
park is likely to be fully operational by 2015 and is expected to cost a total of some Rmb12
billion by completion.
Wenchang, surrounded by coconut forests, is connected to Hainan Haikou by a 60-
kilometre expressway, as well as by the East Ring Intercity Rail Link, which also serves
Sanya and the new resorts on the east coast. It boasts six scenic areas, so is already a
popular tourist spot, with 130 existing hotels (not necessarily of international standard) and
5,000 rooms. Le Méridien (Starwood Hotels & Resorts) has reportedly signed a Letter of
Intent to manage a hotel in Wenchang at the Space Centre, but further details are
unavailable.
2) Yanoda Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone
A 45-square kilometre tropical garden less than an hour’s drive from Sanya, Yanoda
Rainforest Cultural Tourism Zone includes all the five famous rainforests on the island. It
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was designed to preserve and showcase native flora and fauna, bird and wildlife species, as
well as indigenous cultures of the province, providing at the same time an enjoyable,
relaxing tourism experience for locals (60% of the clientele) and tourists. Among the
attractions already completed within the zone are Rainforest Valley and Dream world
Valley, and a Li village show is presented several times a day. But a whole host of other
attractions are planned– primarily for Chinese tourists and locals including Pharmacists’
Canyon, Chinese Zodiac Square, Pa Lu Di Wild Training, Ya Ya Ya Rain Forest Orchard
and Da Se Li Miao Exhibit, as well as accommodation to cater to 4,000.
The total cost of the Yanoda Cultural Zone is expected to be Rmb3.9 billion over ten
years. So far, some Rmb300 million have been spent and the attraction soft-opened in
2008.
② Natural, Social and Cultural Environments
A rich heritage worthy of protection and preservation
Hainan has a major advantage over many of its direct competitors: its natural and
cultural environment is relatively unspoilt and offers huge potential for sustainable tourism
development.
Conveying environmentally and culturally friendly policies, promoting voluntary
accreditation schemes for the industry, and outlining best practice in tourism development,
are all important steps that need to be taken to protect the country’s main resources from
over-development and exploitation.
At the same time, the Hainan Provincial Government and the operating sector can
influence the development of new tourism infrastructure and products to protect and
promote the character of the local environment, developing authentic tourism products that
are unique to the country and its culture.
③ Realizing Hainan’s Tourism Potential
Long-term, co-ordinate planning is critical – especially in terms of HR needs
In order to achieve, or perhaps even surpass the baseline forecasts – which point to an
annual average growth of 9.5% in terms of Travel & Tourism investment and 12.6% in
visitor ‘exports’ (in Hainan’s case, non-resident visitor expenditure including fares) from
2011 to 2021 – certain key factors need to be assured.
Most importantly, these include a well-planned, co-ordinate, and carefully
implemented sustainable tourism development strategy, significant investment in
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education and training to provide the human resources critical to coping with the growth in
demand, sustained and effective marketing and promotions, and in-depth market research
to achieve optimum product and market diversification.
Additional measures suggested in this report are intended to set the stage to help
ensure the larger rewards that Travel & Tourism can bring to Hainan Province over the
short, medium and longer term. The following provides a summary of WTTC’s main
conclusions and recommendations.
Figure 3.23 Forest distribution map of Hainan Island (from Atlas of Hainan Province,1996)
Source: http://www.uoguelph.ca/geology/hainan/english/G/G12_L.htm
④ Travel And Tourism Investment

Hainan Provincial Government is responsible for all Travel and Tourism
infrastructure development on the island, although some projects also involve the central
government authorities. Investment for the actual hotels and resorts has come from a wide
range of sources, primarily Chinese state-owned enterprises. With regard to private sector
involvement, there is little foreign direct investment (FDI) –until now, at least.
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Exceptions include the Kuok Group’s equity in establishing its ShangriLa brand in the
province, Mission Hills Group’s golf complex in Haikou, and Hong Kong’s Agile Property
investment in Qingshui (Clearwater) Bay, in which Morgan Stanley is also involved.
Caesars has reportedly also put up a not insignificant share of the capital required for the
Jiangsu Guoxin Investment Group’s Longmu Bay development – a deal-clincher as
competition from international management groups was intense.
3.4.3 Urban development
There are several Hong Kong listed developers that have a footprint in Hainan due to
its unique natural endowment and the huge growth potential. There are also a lot of
unlisted local developers in Hainan, among which Hainan Airlines Real Estate has the
largest land reserve in the province.
Since the reform and opening-up, especially since the establishment of the province
and of its special economic zone, Hainan has gained great progress in economic and social
development, and profound changes in urban and rural areas, and significant improvement
in people's living standards, marking the province’s new stage of rapid development.
① Overview Of Recent Trends And Developments
1) A new tropical destination with enormous potential
For centuries Hainan was part of Guangdong Province, but was designated a province
in its own right on 26 April 1988. Subsequently, no doubt in recognition of its potential for
economic growth through tourism, this resource-rich tropical island was declared a Special
Economic Zone (SEZ) by Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping – the largest SEZ in China –
benefiting from preferential development policies, as well as incentives for businesses
investing in the island.
Hainan has often been called the ‘Hawaii of the Far East’, or the ‘Chinese Hawaii’. It
is indeed China’s only tropical beach location, lying at the same latitude (18°N) as the
Hawaiian Islands. But it only really started to focus in earnest on developing tourism in the
mid-1990s. This was probably due to the fact that, before then, the Chinese themselves
were not avid travelers – let alone sun & beach enthusiasts.
Indeed, there was little awareness internationally of Hainan’s potential as a tourism
destination until it hosted the Miss World competition for the first time in 1997, at the
newly opened Sheraton Sanya – the first internationally branded hotel in the province.
Hainan had traditionally been almost 100% dependent on agriculture, with its main
resources being fish, fruit and pearls.
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2) First Master Plan completed in 2002

The first Tourism Development Master Plan was completed in 2002, with the support
of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). Tourism development on the island
appeared to be relatively slow, if steady, through most of the first decade of the century.
Tourism investment and demand picked up considerable steam after China’s State Council
declared, in December 2009, that Hainan Island was to be elevated into an international
resort island destination.
By this time, the Government of Hainan Province of the People’s Republic of China
(hereafter referred to as the Hainan Provincial Government) had updated the Master Plan
(in 2008), had completed much of the necessary infrastructure for the first major new
resorts, and had attracted a number of big investors in the island’s tourism – many of
whom, in turn, had secured partnership agreements with international hotel groups for the
operation of hotels and resorts.
3) The staggering pace of development
Over the last few years, the pace of development has been staggering – whether in
terms of hotels/resorts, attractions or infrastructure projects like the island’s high-speed
East Ring Intercity Rail Link – and this is not expected to ease for at least a decade. Hainan
is now firmly on the world tourism map.
② Major development zones
In 1988, Hainan was transformed into a special economic zone, which entitled it to
special economic policies as well as flexible governmental measures. Under this direction,
Hainan became the last and largest special economic zone within the country. Major
development zones in Hainan include the Yangpu Economic Development (YPEDZ) Zone,
Haikou High-Tech Park, as well as the Haikou Free Trade Zone.
Situated in Yangpu in the northwestern part of Hainan province, YPEDZ is a state-
level economic and development zone that was approved by the State Council in March
1992. Spanning a land area of 31 square kilometers, the development zone is entitled to the
preferential policies of a special economic zone. It is rich in resources such as natural gas,
rubber and iron ore, and therefore suitable for the development of gas chemical industries,
building materials production and export processing, rubber processing, as well as paper
pulp processing.
Haikou High-Tech Park (HKHTP) was established as a state-level high-tech park in
1992. Key industries operating in this tech-park include pharmaceuticals, rubber
manufacturing, as well as food processing. In the same year, Haikou Free Trade Zone
(HKFTZ) was approved by the State Council. This free trade zone has a sound
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transportation infrastructure network. Major industries within the zone include export-
oriented manufacturing and international trade.
③ Hainan unveils 20-year development plan
A Hainan committee of experts on February 7 approved a comprehensive economic
and social development plan for the tropical island province. It is in line with the Chinese
government's strategic decision, more than a decade ago, to develop the country's major
beach holiday destination as Hainan International Tourism Island.
Figure 3.24-25 Hainan unveils 20-year development plan

Source: http://en.hainan.gov.cn/englishgov/TopNews/201002/t20100212_42651.html
The committee said the plan maps out a "strategy for integrated urban and rural
development over a period of 20 or more years," and offers a "new model of national urban
and rural integrated development."
The plan divides Hainan into four principle regions; the coastal region, the central
highlands, agricultural terraced region and the maritime region. It also designates four
urban and 21 rural planning areas.
The overall aim of the plan is to create a "harmonious Hainan" based on urban and
rural modernization, economic renewal, and welfare provision and improving the
environment.
1) Tourism and services, key to development
The plan names two key industries – tourism and modern services – as key to the
island's development. They will be supplemented by three supporting pillars of modernized
tropical agriculture, energy and resources, and manufacturing. One of the key aspects of
the island's tourism development plan is to offer visa-free travel to overseas visitors.
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2) Equalizing public services

A key aim of the development plan will be to equalize access to basic public services
across urban and rural areas. Twenty-one rural development zones centered on county
towns have been designated. Within the zones, road transport infrastructure, housing,
leisure, education and medical facilities will be boosted to enhance the quality of life of
residents. Commuting time within the rural development zones will be cut to 30-40
minutes.
3) Rapid Transit Systems
One of the key aspects of the plan is the modernization of the island's transport
system. The plan calls for rapid transit systems (RTS) to be built in four areas of the island;
the main beach resort, Sanya, provincial capital Haikou, Qionghai and Danzhou. The RTS
will be designed to meet the "high-end service demands of international tourists,"
according to the website of the Boao International Tourism Forum.
④ Infrastructure Development
According to a public statement issued early last year, the Hainan Provincial
Government made a total investment in land and transport infrastructure for the island’s
Travel & Tourism equivalent to US$10.83 billion in 2011. The total excluded direct
investments in tourism infrastructure, such as hotels and resorts, as well as other private
investment.
This significant level of public funding reflects the provincial government’s
commitment to the overall goal of developing Hainan into the world’s largest tourism
resort destination by 2020. The program of investment is based on the following:
Co-financing projects for the modernisation of all Hainan Island’s basic land and
transport infrastructure with public funds and funds from corporate sources;
1) Development of various forms of public-private partnerships in Hainan Province,
with the use of public funds in order to reduce investment risks; and
2) Open selection of projects for the construction of land and road infrastructure in
Hainan Province.
Individual infrastructure projects include new roads necessary for access to, and
circulation within, the resorts under development; the new West Ring Intercity Rail Link;
the development of solar power; a new airport in Qionghai to serve Boao; the construction
of ring-road junctions; and expansion of the road network in Sanya City.
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Transport
Highway: Total mileage for highways in the Island of Hainan is over 17,000
kilometres including a national level highway along the island’s coast,connecting every
harbour and major city in Hainan. Currently 318 towns, villages and attractions scattered
over the island are accessible through provincial level highways. There is alsoa
circumferential freeway around the island, with a journey time of 3 hours from Haikou to
Sanya by east-line freeway, and 4 hours by west line freeway. The 12th Five-Year plan
introduced construction of a 400-km highway costing RMB60 billion, of which the main
project is a national level highway directly connecting the island’s west and east.
Figure 3.26 Hainan Transport

Source: http://www.chinaspree.com/china-travel-guide/china-guangdong-hainan-tours.html
Railway: There are five railway routes, connecting Hainan with Xi’an (north-west),
Shanghai (east coast), Beijing (north), Chengdu (south-west), Changsha (central), all of
which are amongst the nation’s largest transportation hubs. The high-speed train from
Haikou to other cities started operations in 2011. The journey from Haikou to Sanya is
308km and takes 2hrs. Other stations include Haikou East, Meilan Airport, Wenchang,
Qionghai, Boao, Wanning, Lingshui and Yalongwan.
Qiongzhou Strait Bridge: As of now, all vehicles and trains travelling from the
mainland to Hainan enter by ferry across the Qiongzhou Strait. The trip takes over 90
minutes each way. Plans to construct a bridge across the strait were introduced in the 12th
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Five-Year Plan. The project is still in planning stage due to be initiated in 2015 and
completed by 2020.Once finished it will cut the crossing time down to 20 minutes and 10
minutes for vehicles and trains to reach the other side.
Waterway: The island has 24 ports, among which Haikou, Sanya, Basuo and Yangpu
are the largest. Total port throughput has increased significantly and local government
plans show a focus on ports at Yangpu, Haikou, Basuo and Sanya. Sanya port will be for
cruise ships.
Air travel: Haikou Melan Airport and Sanya Phoenix Airport, the only two airports in
Hainan province, are expanding their capacity from annual combined throughput of 20
million passengers to 50 million annually. Both airports are operating at over 100%
designed capacity. Haikou and Sanya are expected to complete airport expansion projects
by the end of 2017 and 2013, respectively. Boao International Airport is expected to begin
operation by the end of 2015 with passenger throughput at 0.5 million annually and cargo
throughput around 1,400MT. Danzhou Airport, located at western part of the island is now
in early investigation stage.
⑤ Development planning outline
On December 2009, the Opinions of the State Council on Promoting the Construction
and Development of Hainan International Tourism Destination (hereinafter called
Opinions) were officially issued, marking the campaign of building Hainan into an
International Tourism Destination has been upgraded as a national strategy, which brings
historic opportunity to the development of Hainan. To fully implement the guidelines of
the Opinions, Hainan Provincial Committee of the CPC and Hainan Provincial
Government organized the compilation of the Outline of the Plan for the Development and
Construction of Hainan International Tourism Destination. In accordance with the specific
guidelines, strategic positioning, development objectives and key tasks, and based on the
comprehensive analysis of the internal and external conditions for the construction and
development of Hainan International Tourism Destination, the Outline proposes specific
work arrangements as to spatial layout, infrastructure, industrial development, guarantee
measures, recent action plans and other aspects.
According to the outline plan, reform and opening up should continue as should
progressive institutional innovation with policy support mechanisms for international
tourism in Hainan including construction safeguards. The international tourism island will
continue with infrastructure construction, ecological construction. The required investment
will come from the central government investment budget and other central government
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special investment funds for the implementation of the development policy for the west
part of the island. Vigorous and innovative investment and financing will be encouraged
with the establishment of an international tourism island development fund and special
funds for the development of a Hainan tourism investment and financing platform along
with implementation of preferential tax and land policies.
The outline plan stresses the importance of improving both town and country dwellers
standards of living and an equitable division of infrastructure and services between urban
and rural areas.
Development should ensure that for each family that is unemployed displaced or
without land or any family that lives in poverty that there is a job for at least one member
of the family.
In total the outline details action plans for ten major items further divided into forty
separate projects. These include the general public choosing a logo and mascot for Hainan
International Tourism Island, the selection of tourism evangelists, a complete
transformation of tourist toilet facilities as well as reforms to the tourism administration
systems.
3.4.4 Strategic plans
① Hainan’s strategic position
1) International tourism island and shopping center
In accordance with the “State Development’s Opinion Regarding the Developing
Hainan into an International Tourism Island 2010” (“The Plan”), the Island of Hainan is
being positioned to become an international tourism hotspot by 2020, due to its pleasant
climate and natural scenery. The Plan focuses on building an internationally popular travel
destination through accelerated progress of Hainan’s tourism sector and the overall service
industry. At the same time, the Plan called for environmental protection and preservation,
as well as balanced growth during the process.
2) Building on tourism infrastructure
According to The Plan, by 2020, the Island of Hainan is to have a sophisticated
modern service industry; an upgraded international reputation as a desirable travel
destination; complete infrastructure for fast and convenient travel between attractions and
cities; further opening up of the tourism sector including visa exemption and free flow of
capital and resources; optimized attractions with diversity and quality; introduction of
tourism management and modernized sales and marketing from corporations with
internationally well-known hotel management groups and travel agencies.
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3) International shopping hub

In March 2011, Hainan started the implementation of an off-shore duty free shopping
policy as an effort to boost retail revenue from domestic consumers. The policy took
reference from similar policies implemented at Okinawa of Japan and Jeju of South Korea,
two tourism islands very similar to Hainan. The most recent policy allows non-local
travelers, either Chinese or foreign, who intend to leave the island but travel within China,
to purchase duty-free items twice a year with aggregate value no more than RMB8,000 per
visit per person.
4) Comments
Since the launch of the duty free shopping policies, total tourist arrivals have recorded
stable growth between quarters. There does not appear to have been growth in foreign
tourist arrivals, which we believe is mainly due to the sluggish recovery of developed
economies (Exhibit 7). Retail revenue in Hainan has seen double-digit growth despite the
volatile external environment (Exhibit 8). We expect to see the growth rate pick up in the
coming years as it takes some time for Hainan to build up its reputation as a shopping
center and for the duty-free policy to take effect as well.
5) Harbour Centre
Hainan also targets to become a shipping center given its favorable geographical
location. Waterways provide major channels of transportation in Hainan because of the
Qiongzhou Strait and lack of cargo capacity at airports. The island has 24 ports, among
which Haikou, Sanya, Basuo and Yangpu are the largest. Hainan's ports are booming due
to the increase in large construction projects on the island, increasing demand for the
island’s agricultural products from Mainland China and the interaction with Southeast
Asian countries. The total volume of freight increased at 10-year CAGR of 18.6% from
2000 to 2011, up 10ppts from the previous decade (CAGR of 8.7% from 1990-2000) and
waterway passenger traffic grew at 10-year CAGR of 10.6% from 2000 to 2011 (CAGR
1.9% from 1999-2000) Local government plans show that the development focus at the
biggest five ports and Sanya port will be for cruise ships.
6) Ecological centre
Hainan aims to become a leading ecological community in China. The project
highlights that as ecological health is the foundation of Hainan’s development;
environmental protection is a basic necessity. However, infrastructure development
(including enhancement of the transportation system) and oil and gas exploration may
conflict with the process. There will be challenges for the Hainan’s government in
balancing economic growth and environmental protection.
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② Map of six function groups in Hainan
Figure 3.27 Six function groups Map of Hainan

Source: Hainan Provincial Government
Northern Group: Centered around Haikou, the northern group will focus developing
effort on sectors such as cultural and media, conferences and exhibitions, commercial
retailing, financial and insurance, education and training, real estate, auto manufacturing,
pharmaceuticals, and food processing.
Eastern Group: Qionghai and Wanning should expand coast tourism, tropical
agriculture, processing and fishing. Bo’ao has become a desired destination for
international conferences.
Southern Group: Centered around Sanya, the southern group focuses on hospitality,
entertainment, rehabilitation, commerical retailing. Further build Sanya as a scenic
attraction and ultimately make Sanya a world famous coast tropical resort.
Western Group: The western part of the island should rely on Yangpu economic
development zone and develop harbour industry and technology intensive industries. Build
Danzhou into the central city in western part of the island.
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Central Group: While balancing economic development and environment

preservation, develop tropical agriculture, forestry, ecology tourism and ethnic culture
tourism.
Ocean Group: The ocean group is comprised of Xisha, Nansha and Zhongsha
islands. The region should solidify position in fishing and transportation; expand
exploring, extraction and processing of off-shore oil and gas resources.
③ Tourism’s Strategic Importance
Travel & Tourism is forecast to become Hainan’s leading export sector, generating
the highest share of foreign exchange revenues. It has the potential to diversify Hainan’s
economy, stimulate entrepreneurship particularly among small and medium-sized
enterprises to catalyse investment, and create large numbers of sustainable jobs. In
addition, although so widely recognised, is its ability to help social development in local
communities, including alleviating poverty.
The Government of Hainan Province of the People’s Republic of China (henceforth
referred to as the Hainan Provincial Government) clearly recognises Travel & Tourism’s
strategic importance, both in terms of economic growth and social development, as well as
the need to nurture the industry to ensure it develops sustainably – for the benefit of local
communities as well as for the province’s economic growth.
The only concern is whether all the other different stakeholders support the
government’s view. There is some evidence to suggest that this may not be the case, and
that this could lead to a lack of co-ordination in terms of planning and policy development.
1) Factor Travel & Tourism into mainstream government policies
Travel & Tourism’s strategic importance should be communicated to all levels of
government, industry and local communities and, after allowing for due consultation with
the many different stakeholders, it should be factored into mainstream policies for
employment, trade, investment, education and environmental protection.
2) Promote tourism’s economic and social importance
All stakeholders should be made aware of Travel & Tourism’s full impact across the
national economy – not just on hotels, restaurants and retail outlets, but also on
construction, real estate and other sectors. Even more importantly, they should be informed
on a regular basis, through image campaigns, about the sector’s untapped potential and the
spin-off social benefits of tourism that filter down through different levels of the
community.
3) Implement economic impact analysis on an annual basis
Travel & Tourism needs to be effectively measured in order to understand its full
impact throughout the economy. As a relatively new industry, it is not clearly identified in
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charts of national or provincial accounts as its component parts are scattered throughout
these accounts. As a result, public sector analysis and related policies tend to overlook, or
understate, the impact of the industry, or deal with its individual components, such as air
transport.
Economic impact analysis developed by WTTC and Oxford Economics for Hainan
Province’s Travel & Tourism could be a significant tool for planning and policy
development, as long as the Hainan Provincial Government encourages the adoption of the
technical know-how for such analysis. WTTC recommends that the government update
this on an annual basis to ensure that adequate statistical trends are available to factor
Travel & Tourism into economic, employment and other public sector policies and
strategies.
④ Long Term Planning
Hainan Province has successfully embraced the central government’s ‘Opening-up’
policy, with its export-oriented economy growing rapidly since the Special Economic Zone
(SEZ) was established 23 years ago. During the 11th Five-year Plan period (2006-2010),
the balance between major imported and exported products was optimised. High-tech
enterprises settled in Hainan, with petrochemical and natural gas as the pillars, boosting the
export of industrial products. Crude oil, replacing mechanical and electronic products,
stood out as the province’s leading import, while refined oil products became the top
export replacing natural gas. The government also eased restrictions on the right to operate
foreign trade companies in Hainan.
Figure 3.28 Local Resorts

Source: http://www.swagroup.com/project/longmu-bay-master-plan.html
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The government now has plans to stimulate Hainan’s economy further by

encouraging local companies to raise funds in the capital market to boost the province’s
development into an international tourism resort – a decision announced by China’s State
Council in December 2009. Significant funding has been allocated by the central and
provincial governments to help achieve this goal.
Undertake regular reviews of long-term plans
The Hainan Provincial Government has already put in place a long-term tourism
development strategy and related policies. However, this strategy needs to be reviewed and
updated on a regular basis in the light of new developments and marketplace changes, and
the government should ensure that it includes certain basic, but critical elements:
a. Clearly defined goals, objectives and responsibilities;
b. Indications of best practice in tourism development;
c. Measures to support existing industry, as well as for the promotion of new
developments;
d. An articulated strategy for product diversification;
e. long-term strategy for tourism marketing and promotion in line with the strategy’s
long-term goals and objectives; and
f. Clear branding that reinforces the basic vision for Hainan’s Travel & Tourism
development.
⑤ Competitor Analysis
1) A sharp rise in Travel & Tourism’s direct and total contribution to GDP
a. The direct contribution of Hainan’s Travel & Tourism is estimated at Rmb19.0 bn
for 2011 (fiscal 2010/11), or 8.5% of GDP, and it is forecast to rise by 13.6% a year to
Rmb68.2 bn (12.4%) in 2021 (fiscal 2020/21), in constant 2011 prices.
b. Travel & Tourism’s total contribution to GDP – including its indirect and induced
impacts – is projected to increase by 12.7% per annum, from Rmb77.5 bn (34.8% of GDP)
in 2011 to Rmb255.1 bn (46.2%) by 2021.
c. If it were a country, this growth in Travel & Tourism’s total contribution to GDP
would propel Hainan up the WTTC League Table ranking – from 54th position in 2011 to
13th in 2021.
d. As reflected in the League Table Rankings in Appendix I, Hainan’s closest country
competitors (apart from China itself), in terms of the growth in Travel & Tourism’s
contribution to GDP over the current decade, will be Thailand, India and Vietnam.
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2) As well as to overall employment

a. In 2011, Hainan’s Travel & Tourism directly supported an estimated 438,000 jobs
(9.9% of total employment), and these are forecast to rise by 8.4% per annum to 983,000
jobs (28.6%) by 2021.
b. The total contribution of Travel & Tourism to employment, including jobs
indirectly supported by the industry, is forecast to increase by 7.4% a year from 1.3 mn
jobs (28.6% of total employment) in 2011 to 2.6 mn (47.6%) in 2021.
c. As a result of this growth, Hainan will likely rise from 30th to 19th place in the
Employment League Table ranking.
d. In 2011, Hainan outranked both Hong Kong SAR and Macau SAR in terms of
number of jobs supported by Travel & Tourism but, given their respective sizes, the
province ranked behind leading Asian resort destination countries such as Indonesia,
Thailand, Vietnam and Malaysia.
e. No data is available to compare Hainan province with individual states or islands in
the respective countries.
3) Already a leading world Travel & Tourism economy in terms of visitor
spending
a. If Hainan Province were a country, it would already have ranked 8th in the world in
terms of Travel & Tourism’s relative contribution to total exports (59.2%) in 2011,
outranked only by a small handful of island groups, such as the Maldives and Macau SAR
(in 3rd and 4th positions) and a few Caribbean states.
b. Nevertheless, ‘visitor exports’ (non-resident visitor expenditure including airfares)
in absolute terms were expected to total just Rmb33.9 bn (US$5.25 bn) of the total value of
the outflow of goods and services in 2011.
4) Climbing to number one position, in terms of growth, by 2021
a. With 12.6% average annual growth forecast over the 10-year period 2011 to 2021
(or 16.4% in nominal terms), Hainan is expected to outperform all the world’s national
economies by this measure, with visitor spending reaching Rmb110.8 bn (79.9%) in 2021.
b. This rapid growth would result in a further rise up the World League Table ranking,
propelling Hainan into first place – in terms of 10-year real growth per annum.
c. Close contenders in the Asian region are expected to be Thailand, Vietnam and
Japan.
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d. China’s visitor exports, by contrast, are forecast to grow by a more modest 4.9%
per annum.
5) Growth driven primarily by massive investment in Travel & Tourism
a. Travel & Tourism investment in Hainan Province is estimated to have reached
Rmb76.3 bn, or 50.9% of total capital investment, in 2011. And this should rise by 9.5%
per annum to reach Rmb189.1 bn (or 53.2%) of total investment by 2021.
b. In terms of the relative contribution of Travel & Tourism investment to total capital
investment, Hainan would already have ranked 15th among all world national economies
in 2011, but the phenomenal growth forecast will fast-track Hainan into the world’s top
slot (in terms of average annual growth) by 2021.
c. By comparison, China was ranked in 8th position in 2011, with forecast growth
over the 10-year period 2011-2021 of 8.5%.
d. Other leading economies, in terms of Travel & Tourism investment growth, are
expected to be Thailand, India, Malaysia, Macau SAR, Vietnam and Indonesia.
Figure 3.29 Hainan Map, Hainan Sightseeing Map

Source: http://www.sanyaweb.com/map_hainan_maps.html
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6) Importance of Travel & Tourism’s indirect contribution

a. The composition of Hainan’s total Travel & Tourism contribution is relatively
unique in terms of the scale of the indirect contribution, relative to Travel & Tourism’s
direct contribution.
b. The two main components of the large indirect contribution are the high level of
Travel & Tourism investment and the rising level of supply-chain spending within Hainan
associated with internal Travel & Tourism consumption.
⑥ 2010-2020 Hainan international tourism island development planning outline
By 2015, deregulation of tourism management, marketing, service and development,
introduce market-driven practices and increase level of internationalisation. By 2020,
management and service standards of tourism facilities should be the same as global
standard, finishing the initial stage in making Hainan a world class island resort and
tourism hotspot.
By 2015, the target is for tourism and service industry to account for more than 8%
and 47% of provincial GDP respectively. The target figures for 2020 are 12% and 60%.
Increase effort on developing modern service industry including media, logistics,
tourism real estate, tourism insurance and off-shore finance service.
Strictly enforce environmental protection laws and regulations; aggressively push for
energy saving and emission reduction; and improve pollution prevention and treatment.
Develop modern tropical agriculture specialty including tropical fruits, flowers,
plants, and seafood. Establish organic production example base and strengthen corporation
with Taiwan.
Accelerate urban-rural integration progress. Establish various functional area of cities
and optimise area planning. Improve cities’ comprehensive service capability to attract
businesses and populations and improve cities’ overall strength.
Increase infrastructure construction in transportation, renewable technology and
internet equipment.
Develop industries in Hainan such as auto, luxury good manufacturing, medical
research, information technology and marine economy with focus on minimum
environmental impact.
Finland, Denmark, Norway, Ukraine and Kazakhstan were added to Visa-free policy
so that tourists from 26 countries do not need a visa to go to Hainan.
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Figure 3.30 Execution of Strategy- Closing the Chasm Between Strategy and Execution-
Source: http://venitism.blogspot.com/2013/08/execution-of-strategy.html
by: VENITISM - Thursday, August 22, 2013
3.4.5 Conclusion
Even if the previous mentioned strategic plans and the tourism plan for Hainan did not
use the expression “Regional Tourism” that much but everything was serving this idea by
all the potentials that Hainan Province has. No one can regret that the government
attention benefits that opened a whole province to experience and discover its urban
and regional potentials, also the infrastructure and investments done was huge.
The strategic plans seem to be more practical and objective starting from the main
plan objective passing through the sub-objectives ending by the measures. The structure
was clear, organized which represents the long experience gained by dealing with the
notion of urban and regional tourism. Meanwhile, the importance of Hainan as a Southeast
Asia destination was clear in the hierarchy of location, on the local, national, Asia and
international levels.
As a final conclusion for both region, Syrian Coast and Hainan have the
characteristics that mentioned by Blank in the literature review, characteristics which allow
both cities to be a regional tourism destination:
- Location of high populations, which attract high numbers of tourists who are
visiting friends and relatives.
- Major travel nodes that serve as gateways or transfer points to other destinations.
- Focal points for commerce, industry and finance.
- Harbour concentrations of people services such as education, administration center,
health and others.
- Places that offer a wide variety of cultural, artistic and recreational experiences.
Syrian Coastal Region and Hainan Province enjoy these characteristics. Syrian Coast
is trying to establish a successful regional tourism experience which allows it to compete in
the international tourism market.
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4 Regional Analysis Results
4.1 Introduction
This chapter will deal with the analysis results which have been done through the
different stages of the research with the data and information that was available during the
research period.
4.1.1 Location analysis
Figure 4.1 Geographical location for Syrian

Source: Google image
Table 4.1 SWOT Analysis for the geographical location for Syrian Costal and Hainan
SWOT Region Geographical location
• Proximity to Europe and Arab countries
• Strategic location on the Mediterranean
• The long lasting summer that begins in the end of May and lasts in the
beginning of October with a very mild winter
Syrian Coast
• Long coastline, special cuisine of seafood which grow only in this area of
the Mediterranean sea
Strengths
• The mountains with beautiful views to the Mediterranean sea
• Proximity to Damascus
• Proximity to Vietnam in the west, Indonesia and the Philippines in the
Hainan south
• The Islands of Sansha and South China Sea, is located at China’s
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SWOT Region Geographical location

southernmost point
• Temperatures range from 17-29°C during the year because of the tropical
monsoon climate, and the coast line spans 1,528 km.
• The Island is separated from mainland China by the Qiongzhou Strait
• The combination of climate and ocean views makes the island an ideal
place for tourism
• The central part of the island is rather mountainous with 81 mountain
peaks above 1,000m in altitude
• The island has five national nature reserve areas and over 20 provincial
reserve areas
• The combination of climate and ocean views makes the island an ideal
place for tourism.
• Sometimes hot weather because of the humidity specialty in July and
Syrian Coast
August.
Weaknesses
Hainan • Difficult connection with mainland China
• Connection between3different continents Africa, Asia and Europe
Syrian Coast
• Commercial & tourism opportunities
Opportunities
Hainan • The relationship with the Southeast Asia countries & China
• Degradation of the natural environment
Syrian Coast
• Change of the coastline due to waves of erosion and sedimentation
Threats • Lack of consideration of sustainability issues with some projects
Hainan
• Increasing decentralization which threat the separation of the region
Figure 4.2 Geographical location for China

Source: Google image
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4.1.2 Economic and Industrial analysis
Table 4.2 SWOT Analysis for the economic capital
SWOT Region Economic and Industrial capital
• After centuries of stagnation and isolation, the short seafront of Syria has
witnessed during the 3rd quarter of the last century the establishment of 4
large and modern maritime facilities. These are successively; Banias oil
terminal, the modern commercial seaport of Latakia, the commercial
seaport of Tartous and Tartous oil terminal
Syrian Coast • These examples clearly underscore how central is the coastal zone to
the economy of the country
• The coastal zone therefore provides important tourism, economic,
transport, residential and recreational functions, all of which depend on its
physical characteristics; appealing landscape, cultural heritage, natural
resources, and rich marine and terrestrial biodiversity
• Hainan has remained susceptible to periodic booms and busts ever since
it became a province in 1988. In 1989 it was granted the status of special
economic zone (SEZ), becoming the fifth SEZ in China
Strengths
• The central government has subsequently strengthened its grip on the
island with each boom-bust cycle
• Hainan and its surrounding seas are rich in oil and gas resources and its
total reserve of natural gas ranks second in China, only next to Xinjinag.
5.52 billion MT of oil
• The economics of Hainan has a significant increase every year, the GDP
Hainan
has increased about 100% from 2003-2008. Since year 2000, numbers of
international companies invested in Hainan province and most of the
investors invested in real estate and retail sector
• Hainan has a flourishing agricultural industry, accounting for nearly a
quarter of its GDP. Because of Hainan’s warm climate, the island has over
120 types of fruits, over 4,000 tropical plant species, over 2,500 different
herbs and over 800 types of trees suitable for commercial use. Crops with
wide plantation area and the highest economic value are rubber, coconut,
oil palm, pepper, lemongrass and cocoa
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• Powerful economic pressures exist in the coastal region, and particularly

in the narrow coastal zone. Amongst these economic pressures are Syria’s
two commercial seaports, its two oil terminals, its largest oil refinery,
power plant and cement factory, the third largest airport, the first region for
citrus, greenhouse vegetables and tobacco farming and processing, and the
Syrian Coast second region for olive farming and olive oil production, the heaviest
concentration of steel bars industry and beverages production, and,
naturally, the major source of fresh marine food
• Unfortunately, there is no sign that inappropriate uses of the coastal zone
Weaknesses
are becoming less frequent. In fact, with increasing population, visitors and
economic activities, the pressures are increasing
• GDP growth eased significantly to 9% in 2012 as growth in fixed-asset

investment (FAI) decelerates particularly into property and expansion in
foreign investment slows
Hainan • After the separation of Hainan Province, land transfer was allowed while
the corresponding regulations were not there
• Speculators flooded into Hainan and invested heavily in the real estate
market
• This importance includes national security, leisure use by national, Arab

and foreign tourists, an increasing percentage of economic activities, and as
Syrian Coast a main passageway for the Syrian trade
• This resource base is thus the foundation for the well ‐ being and
economic viability of present and future generations of its residents
Opportunities • 12 trillion cubic meters of natural gas have been discovered in the three
Cenozoic sedimentary basins around the Island of Hainan
• The provincial government plans to transform the island into China's
Hainan
largest manufacturing hub for photovoltaic solar cells by 2015
• Development in the energy and renewable-energy sectors is helping to
stimulate the development of Hainan's secondary sector
• Direct environmental consequences(such as coastline alteration and

Syrian Coast
Threats ship/facility generated marine and coastline pollution, hydrocarbons
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leakage and spills from the large tank farms of the two oil terminal)
• Further indirect consequences result from the socio-economic changes
brought about by those facilities; these include further coastal urbanization,
the intensification of land transport and other service-sector or associated
projects
• The average selling price of properties surged by more than 5 times in 3

Hainan years as speculators tried to change hands as quickly as possible before the
music ended
4.1.3 Social analysis
Table 4.3 SWOT Analysis for the social capital

SWOT Region Social capital
• The increasing socio-cultural changes and the decline of traditional and
Syrian Coast
ecologically compatible activities and small industries
• The Hainan Development Strategy, which was prepared by the Chinese

Academy of Social Sciences, set as its goal for the 20-year period from
1988 to 2007 an annual growth rate of 13.5% and made the development of
energy, transportation and telecommunication sectors an important priority
Strengths
Hainan issue
• 4.5922 million People were employed in 2011, increased by 4.45% than
the previous year. The registered urban unemployment rate was 1.73%.
The average wage of staff and workers in urban areas was 36,716 Yuan in
2011, up 18.3%.
• Population growth continuing, against a background of decreasing job

Syrian Coast
opportunities
• Per capita disposable income for Hainan has been lower than the national
average for the past 5 years, but a higher YoY growth rate has been
Weaknesses
Hainan observed since 2010.
• As a result, the disposable income gap between urban households in
Hainan and first tier cities has narrowed
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SWOT Region Social capital

• Maximizing quality of life in the coastal region
• Given the coast’s critical value and its potential, these problems must be
Syrian Coast
addressed. And, as many of the problems of the coastal zone, the response
must include some action at both national level and local level
• Employment promotion: the number of employees is increasing at a
Opportunities
steady pace in the two industrial categories (hotel and transportation)
Hainan • Promotion of Rural Economy: the improvements made in the rural
economy are explained by the effects of the impressive increase in the
volume of goods distributed in Hainan island
• The new generations in the coastal cities are suffering of increasing
unemployment
• Unemployment and social instability resulting from the decline of
traditional resources or environmentally‐compatible sectors
• Unemployment, emigration, and social instability. Either through
dwindling stocks or technological changes, many traditional sources of
Syrian Coast
income, like farming, handicrafts and coastal fishing, have become
unprofitable, causing social and economic problems
• Lost opportunities for durable employment, as resources are degraded
Threats
• Marginalization and emigration
• This population density, combined with its strategic and economic
importance, places disproportionate pressures on the coastal zone
• Hainan used to be a haven for smuggling, prostitution and gambling, but
the police force has been strengthened in order to block these illegal
Hainan industries and enhance social security in Hainan
• Gambling has been linked with murders, kidnappings and suicides in the
province
4.1.4 Climate Encompasses

Syrian coastal region features a hot-summer Mediterranean climate (Csa) with hot, dry
summers and mild, wet winters. The coast region’s wettest months are December and January,
where average precipitation is around 175 mm. The city's driest month, July, only sees on average
about 1 mm of rain. Average temperatures in the city range from around 8 degrees Celsius in
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January to around 30 degrees Celsius in August. Syrian coastal region on average receives around
850 mm of rainfall annually.
Diagram 4.1 Climate Data For Syrian Coast Region & Hainan Province
Hainan has a tropical moist monsoonal climate. Its annual temperature change is less
than 15°C. The coldest months are January and February when the temperatures drop to 16
to 21 °C; the hottest months are July and August, and the temperatures are 25 to 29 °C.
The summer in the north is hot and, for more than 20 days in a year, the temperature can be
higher than 35 °C. The average annual precipitation is 1,500 to 2,000 millimeters and can
be as high as 2,400 millimeters in central and eastern areas, and as low as 900 millimeters
in the coastal areas of the southwest. The eastern part of Hainan lies in the path of
typhoons, and 70% of the annual precipitation is derived from typhoons and the summer
rainy season. Major flooding occurs due to the typhoons and they can cause many
problems for the local residents.
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Diagram 4.2 Percipitation (mm) in Syrian Coast Region & Hainan Province
4.1.5 Demographics
At the beginning of the 20th century, Syrian coastal region had a population of
roughly 10,000 inhabitants; however, the Journal of the Society of Arts recorded a
population of 40,000 in 1905. In a 1990 estimate, Syrian coastal region had a population of
1,200.000 rising to 1,400.000 in the 1997 census. The city's population continued to rise,
reaching an estimated 1,600.000 residents in 2004. However those numbers are subject to
definitional issues about where the city begins and ends. Under one definition, in year 2011
the Syrian coastal region metropolitan area had a population of 1,800.000.
In the 1990 fourth national population census, the population of Hainan province
counted 6,550.000, accounting for 0.85% of the national total and ranking 27th among the
provinces of China. Population density was 193 persons per square kilometers, which
ranks the 16th in the country. The increase of population density is more rapid in Hainan
Province than in the country as a whole. 80% of the population are rural residents in 1997
reach to 7,250.000 ; population density is higher in urban than the rural areas; the northern
and eastern parts are more populous, while the central mountainous areas are sparsely
populated. In 2004 Hainan had 7,980.000 residents. The population is increasingly to
9,070.000 in year 2011 distributed from the central mountainous areas to the coastal areas.
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Diagram 4.3 Population in Syrian Coast Region & Hainan Province
4.1.6 Number of Tourists

The next figure shows the number of tourists visited Syrian coastal region and Hainan
province from 1995 till 2010. In Syrian coastal region the number of tourists never
exceeded the 1.6 million tourists, which points a big question mark to the expectations of
the strategic plans of the region to double this number by the year 2015(before the war)
how?. Meanwhile the number of tourists visited Hainan were increasing till reached the
peak in 2007about 18.5 million tourists and due to the crises the number increased to reach
22.5 million in 2009, but started to recover again and reached 25.9 million in 2010 which
maybe according to the successful policies that the region followed to recover quickly
from the crises.
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Diagram 4.4 Number of Tourists in Syrian Coast Region & Hainan Province
4.1.7 Seasonality
A breakdown of 2010 arrivals in Hainan by month confirms that Hainan does not
suffer the sharp peaks and troughs that are characteristic in most of the world’s major
tourism hotspots. But demand is highest from December through March. Interestingly,
however, there does not appear to be a sharp peak during official public holidays – the
Golden Weeks of the Spring Festival (at Chinese New Year) and in May (commemorating
Labour Day) and October (including National Day). For Sanya, February, June and
September attracted the lowest demand in 2010.
From the tourism activities in the recent years in the Syrian coastal region and
analysis of the data available at the Directorate of Tourism in Syrian coastal region and
relevant facilities in addition to the survey data and survey by the method of random
sampling that shows the tourism activity in the region is seasonality in general. The
statements appeared the preference for Arab tourists and the Syrians for tourism in the
summer months the preference for foreign tourism in the spring and autumn.
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Diagram 4.5 Seasonality of foreign arrivals in Syrian Coast Region & Hainan Province
4.1.8 Origin of Tourists

The next figure shows the number of tourists according to their origins, as the tourists
were divided according to three origins, Nationals (means the visitors with the country’s
nationality) Sub-nationals (means the visitors from Arab world in the case of Syrian coast
and Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan in the case of Hainan) and internationals (means the
visitors from the rest of the world).
In Hainan, the figure shows that it mainly depending on nationals who represent more
than 56% of the number of tourists visiting the province, while the international tourists
represent more than 33% and the sub-nationals represents only 11.
In Syrian coast is the same situation of Hainan, tourism rely on national and
international tourists than tourists sub-national as they represent 63%, 8% and 29%
respectively of the number of tourists, which may refer to the proximity of Syrian coast’s
tourism.
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Diagram 4.6 Tourists By Origin in Syrian Coast Region & Hainan Province
4.1.9 Purpose of Visit

The next figure shows the purpose of visit to Syrian coastal region. During the period
from 2000 till 2010, the coastline represented the half dependency of tourism while the
internal strip and lakes surrounding represented the quarter of them. Also it was mentioned
in the interviews as it will be indicated later, that the Barcelona From the figure we can
notice that there is no balance between the number of tourism in coastline and the other
areas. Meanwhile this data was not available for Hainan province as it probably considered
as a main vacation and leisure tourism destination.
Diagram 4.7 Proportions of visited locations in Syrian Coast Region
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4.1.10 Hainan’s Airport

In 2010, Sanya Phoenix Airport recorded 9.3 million passengers, up 17% – thereby
overtaking Haikou Meilan (8.8 million) to become the 17th most important airport, in
terms of passenger throughout, in China (up from 18th in 2009). Haikou, meanwhile,
dropped to 19th place (down from 17th the previous year). Preliminary data suggests that
Sanya’s passenger throughput exceed 10 million in 2011.
The faster growth at the island’s southern coast airport is due to the huge increase in
hotel room and real-estate capacity, which has stimulated demand –from foreign and
Overseas Chinese markets as well from Mainland Chinese tourists. This is despite the fact
that most international flights to Hainan Island currently operate to Haikou Meilan. Traffic
through Haikou can be expected to grow more rapidly in future, thanks to increased
capacity as a result of the new airport terminal.
Passenger traffic throughput at Hainan’s Haikou

Meilan and Sanya Phoenix airports (2008-2010)
10,000,000
0
2008
2009
2010
Haikou Sanya
Diagram 4.8 Passenger traffic throughput at Hainan’s Haikou Meilan and Sanya
Phoenix airports (2008-2010)
4.1.11 Star-Rated Hotels

According to the Hainan Statistics Year Book 2007, there were 14 hotels in Lingshui,
including 3 star rating hotels, 51 hotels in Wanning, including 45 star rating hotels, 145
hotels in Sanya, including 88 star rating hotels and Haikou 103 hotels, including 76 star
rating hotels.
According to the statistic report released by Directorate of Tourism in Latakia and
Tartous, there were 53 hotels in Latakia, including 16 star rating hotels and 30 hotels in
Tartous including 14 star rating hotels.
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Diagram 4.9 Major Tourism City Hotel Market Comparision in Syrian

Coast Region & Hainan Province (2007)
4.1.12 Hotel Room and Bed Capacity

The next figure shows the differences between the number of hotels in Hainan
province and Syrian Coastal Region. In Syrian Coastal the number of hotels decreased
during the last decade to reach till 4563 rooms and 9847 beds in 2007, with the increase in
rooms and beds Capacity. While in Hainan the case is totally different as the number of
rooms and beds increased to 57000 rooms and 105000 beds in 2007, with the increasing
and sometimes stable number of tourists who spend more than one day in Hainan with its
breaks and holidays.
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Hotel room and bed capacity (2007)

120000
100000
80000
60000 Rooms
Beds
40000
20000
0
Syrian Coast Region Hainan Province
Diagram 4.10 Hotel room and bed capacity in Syrian Coast Region & Hainan Province (2007)
4.1.13 Share of Arrivals in Star-rate Hotels

The number of hotel guests in Latakia by the year 2007 of all nationalities such as
Arabs, foreigners and Syrians 173934 Guest. While in Tartous Hotels, the number of
guests in the same year reaches to 93657 that increase in the number of guests about 20.7
% from the previous year where the percentage increased to 102.7 % in May higher than
last year. Represents a growing proportion of foreign guests a positive indicator and
provides greater stability for tourism because of the sensitivity of tourist demand towards
external variables, as it contributes increasing state budget in hard currency
The number of hotel guests in Latakia by the year 2008 in all grades Hotels 179152
guests. About Tartous hotels reach to 96466 guest growth from the previous year of 3%
and the ratio of guests Arabs 22% and foreigners 19%. Has reached the rate of increase in
the growth of foreign guests from 10% - 19% this reflects the growing of foreign tourists to
stay at hotel establishments in the Syrian coast. Seen as an increasing number of Arab
guests in those hotels as a result of increased of economic activity in the field of business
tourism.
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Diagram 4.11 Share of arrivals in star-rated hotels in Syrian Coast Region
Although one can expect to see a much broader spread of tourists across Hainan
Island in the coming years, as new developments spring up in different locations, the two
most important destinations for tourism in Hainan Province until now have been Haikou,
the capital, and Sanya, the leading holiday resort. Until late 2010, there were anyway few
alternatives with regard to international standard hotel accommodation, despite the flurry
of construction activity through 2010 along the east coast.
Diagram 4.12 Share of arrivals in star-rated hotels in Hainan Province
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4.2 Strategic planning

4.2.1 Some of Urban Projects’ Plans in Hainan Province
① Sanya Bay Phoenix Waterside Town
EKISTICS developed the urban design for the Sanya Bay Phoenix Waterside Town, a
new town development located in the western edge of Sanya city proper and on the upper
reaches of the Sanya River. This 210 ha site is tidal marsh land with three river courses
passing through it; 50 ha are located within the river flood plain.
Figure 4.3 Sanya Bay Phoenix Waterside Town

Source: http://ekistics.com/project/sanya-bay-phoenix-waterside-town/
The project is envisioned as a first class landmark real estate development project that
will reinforce the world class destination resort and recreation focus of Sanya.

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The site is strategically important to the future development of the City of Sanya as it
forms the western edge of the downtown core and is located at the confluence of the two
rivers that forms the harbour in the center of the city.
The development will feature 2.1 million m² of building area at 1.0 FSR with a
comprehensive mix of land uses which, when built out, will form a complete community
comprised of residential, hotel, commercial, restaurant, retail, school, and recreational
amenity land uses.
The existing river corridor and its associated setbacks form a green spine extending
through the development and creating a green transition area between the distinct
neighborhoods. A golf course sports park is located along the river corridor, transforming
the non-developable setback area into a recreation and visual amenity for the residential
neighborhoods.

Organized around a network of canals, five residential neighborhoods feature a mix of

townhouse, garden apartment and apartments each sited to maximize frontage onto open
space and the Sanya River. High-rise apartment buildings are located fronting onto Jie
Fang Road to maximize the southern ocean views.
A mixed-use commercial village is located at the southeastern edge of the site where
the river flows under the Jin Ji Ling Bridge. This area features commercial, retail,
restaurant, entertainment, hotel and residential uses focusing on an inner water basin. This
commercial village is outward-focusing and welcomes residents and visitors in Sanya to
enter and experience Phoenix Waterside Town.
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② Phoenix Island, Sanya

The phoenix island is located in Sanya center "sunshine coast" core zone, is the sea of
filling out blow saved man-made, span 1,250 m, width 365 meters, covers an area of about
36.5 million square meters, through 394 meter long sightseeing cross-sea bridge and
connected to Sanya center. After completion of the phoenix island will set international
cruise port, seven-star hotels (international conference center), international health
vacation center, business center, international yacht club, Marine tropical business street,
fire phoenix Olympic theme square at an organic whole, 50 million total planning will
meters.
Figure 4.6 Phoenix Island, Sanya

Source: http://www.lednews.org/phoenix-island-luxury-resort-sanya/
More than 10 billion capital investment, top international planning design, beautiful
island sceneries, scarce ecological resources, in the near future, Sanya phoenix island will
be comparable with the world-class ZongLvDao Bali resort in Dubai flagship, the real
Marine wonders, paradise on earth.

Source: http://www.whatsonsanya.com/travel_images/8e6448fdca931c88_Phoenix%20Island-5.jpg
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May 4, 2009 from Sanya Phoenix Island will usher in the Olympic flame, and open
flame in the first preached the first great city. Sanya is the Olympic torch relay in the
whole 30 kilometers, lasted nearly 11 hours, the launching ceremony was held in the
phoenix island via the home "miss world beauty crown", and finally arrived in Tianya-
haijiao scenic area. 208 bearers will through the beach running, conventional running and
three bicycle form, transfer the Olympic flame. The masses will through the people along
the bamboo dance, thousand Taijiquan and other forms for the Olympic torch relay cheers.
The end of 2006, the phoenix island all seven projects started. The phoenix island
international conference center will be built into China's first "seven star hotel";
International health vacation center will be built into China's most luxurious 360-degree
seascape holiday center; International yacht club will hit Southeast Asia's most active the
largest caused yacht club. Mall will become inter tropical amorous feelings of Southeast
Asia's most costly offshore shopping paradise... These beautiful buildings will build into
the skyline of China.

The phoenix island have built China's first can be docked 10 tons of luxurious
passenger liner, is the present China special terminal of the most complete facilities special
cruise ports in the world. Otherwise a 5 tons and 20 tons international cruise ship wharves
and constructing, is completed, it will become the biggest and the most luxurious
international cruise mother port. Global top three royal Caribbean and carnival, the star
cruises the luxury cruise corp. have been parked the phoenix island, and will the phoenix
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island selected for long-term stop port points. In the future, there will be the Europe, USA,
Southeast Asia international high-end tourists gathered land.

Phoenix Island project construction land urban plan was originally based on
Sanya’s overall urban plans for land utilization, and Sanya city overall urban plan
had been approved by the upper level government Hainan Province, and the total Hainan
Province overall urban plan had been approved by central governments.
Urban areas reflect the dynamics of capital accumulation, providing the conditions for
the concentration of capital and labour for continued future accumulation.
Overall Plans for Land Utilization “People's governments at all levels shall
draw up overall plans for land utilization on the basis of the requirements of the plans for
national economic and social development.” “The overall plans for land utilization shall
be examined for approval at different levels. The overall plans for land utilization drawn
up by provinces, autonomous regions and municipalities directly under the Central
Government shall be submitted to the State Council for approval. The overall plans
for land utilization drawn up by cities, where people's governments of provinces or
autonomous regions are located and where the population is over one million, and cities
earmarked by the State Council shall be examined for consent by people's governments of
the provinces or autonomous regions, before they are submitted to the State Council for
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approval. The overall plans for land utilization other than the ones mentioned in the second
and third paragraph of this Article shall be submitted for approval level by level up to the
people’s governments of provinces, autonomous regions and municipalities directly under
the Central Government.
Figure 4.10 Sanya City urban planning 1999-2010

Source: Sanya sunshine coastline urban planning guildlines-Pheonix island
In Sanya , the city urban planning principle is to “with clear awareness of

human-oriented principles in the sustainable development of city, Sanya government put
top priority on the protection of ecological environment, emphasizing the harmonious
balance between the development of the city and the protection of the environment to make
Sanya a city with its unique features and glamour”. The main urban district of scenery
shall be developed various urban tourism projects by utilizing various resources along the
Sanya Bay. Sanya Bay is a typical urban coast area for the leisure recreation of local
people and tourists. Sanya wan Road will be the axis of the urban tourism zone.
Phoenix Island is just outside the Sanya Bay, Sanya City government named the
surround area the “sunshine coast”, the center of the sunshine coast is Phoenix Island. The
original name of Phoenix island is called “happy island”, and the key points from authority
for the urban planning is “High density in the south, low density in the north; High western
part and low eastern part; with the water system going through”(see the drawings below)
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Figure 4.11 Project， Happy island urban planning key point

Source: Sanya sunshine coast urban planning guildlines -Phoenix island
Based on this Phoenix island urban planning policy, the shareholders invited the
urban planning consultant company and Architecture Company, to let them specify
urban planning in details and the land functions in details under their own wishes. Then
they must send in the adjustment application to the city urban planning bureau and the city
government, after the city government approved, then the urban planning was set.
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Figure 4.12 The original phoenix island land usage urban plan
Figure 4.13 Traffic system analysis- new land usage urban plan after adjustment
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Figure 4.14 Fire truck traffic system analysis

③ Hainan Man-Made Island

Haikou, Hainan, and PRC: The new island’s master plan is based upon five distinct
layers of meaning, symbolism and philosophy of Hainan Culture and Tibetan Buddhism.
One of major design goals is also to create a clear brand identity for Hainan Island and
region. The architectural designs of the buildings serve a fundamental mission in defining
the island’s visual identity utilizing Hainan cultural-based themes.
Figure 4.15 Hainan Man-Made Island

Source: http://www.mcmgroup.com/practices/leisure-tourism/hainan-man-made-island-haikou-hainan-prc/
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SWOT Analysis
Table 4.4, SWOT Analysis for Urban development, utilities, services &
Infrastructure of Syrian Costal and Hainan
SWOT Region Urban development, utilities, services & infrastructure
• The coastal zone of Syria is of critical importance to the country and a
strategic access to the world
• In the latter part of the last century the coast witnessed the development of
large maritime facilities including; Banias oil terminal, the commercial
seaport of Latakia and the commercial seaport and oil terminal of Tartous.
Syrian Coast
These provide vital economic outlets to the Mediterranean. The coastal zone
is naturally the base of shipping and maritime services and the resulting
direct and indirect employment source for workers in marine services
• Increasing urban and economic growth, including cities and tourism
Strengths
projects
• In the 7th Five-Year National Development Plan (1986–1990) was
implemented, and therefore the development of basic transportation
infrastructure was also adopted as a priority issue domestically, with a
Hainan particular urgency being attached to road development for fundamental
transportation
• In 2011 the province started the construction of 112,200 units of affordable
housing and completed 48,500 units, according to a government report
• Lack of spatial and cross-sectoral planning
• Spatial planning, particularly beyond the administrative boarders of
localities. Such planning is at best an ameliorative measure on the
unplanned status quo
• This matter is closely related to the weakness in coordination between
potentially conflicting sectors (housing, tourism, industry, transportation
etc...)
Syrian Coast
Weaknesses • At coastal zone level, these shortages are exacerbated by the absence of an
integrated coastal zone concept, whether in the legal framework, or at
planning and administrative functional levels
• Underlying problems related to lack of knowledge, inappropriate and
uncoordinated laws, failure to involve stakeholders, and lack of coordination
between the relevant administrative bodies
• So far, almost one third of the whole length of Syria's coastline has been
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SWOT Region Urban development, utilities, services & infrastructure

altered to man‐made constructions such as restaurants, hotels and cabanas,
commercial ports, oil terminals, industrial facilities (e.g. Banias power
plant, located just on the coastline), extended cornices at the seafronts of the
4 coastal cities (Latakia, Jableh, Banias and Tartous) and other uses
• Residents have complained about being priced out of the local property
Hainan
market, as prices have been inflated by purchases made by non-residents
• The vision towards Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) in Syria
has looked at many inter-related biological, physical and human problems
presently facing this zone
Syrian Coast • Balancing development of the coastal zone and the hinterland
• Given the coast’s critical value and its potential, these problems must be
addressed, the response must include some action at both national level and
local level
Opportunities
• The local government is committed to ensuring that affordable housing
coverage will reach 38% by 2015, higher than the national target of 20% by
2020
Hainan
• Hainan Grid, a subsidiary of China Southern Power Grid, has plans to
invest Rmb23bn (US$3.7bn) in building a comprehensive grid network on
the island
• The rapid population growth, in a mountainous area with limited arable
land, led to high rates of rural-to-urban migration
• This urbanization process has resulted in urban sprawl over the coastal
strip and near-shore illegal construction
• The dynamic expansion and development of urban, tourism and transport
infrastructures during the last few decades increasingly threatens natural
Syrian Coast
heritage sites in the coastal zone including forests and beaches
• Urban expansion and sprawl, economic and infrastructure projects, and
Threats
superficial "modernization" processes are threatening the long ‐ term
preservation of this rich coastal cultural heritage
• In addition, the coastline is threatened in some parts by coastal erosion
resulting from development projects and engineering works
• Due to the lack of infrastructure and pillar industries, there was no real
Hainan demand for real estate in Hainan, which finally led to the burst of the bubble
in the property market
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4.2.2 Some of Tourism Projects’ Plans in Syrian Coastal Region and

Hainan Province
A- Syrian Coastal Region
① South Latakia area - Sanowber /major and integrated tourist area development
The goal of the project
Establishment a major tourist area development at the site south of Latakia, including
various forms of accommodations (hotels and tourist villages and apartments ...) at various
levels, cities and entertainment events and services, sports and golf courses .....
Figure 4.16 Land use zone

Source: DUMEZ-GTM
Figure 4.17 Land use zone

Source: Tourism Directorate in Latakia
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1) Park 36 hectares
2) General leisure Park 112 hectares
3) Tourist housing 55 hectares
4) Tourist housing 108 hectares
5) 55 hectares reserve area
6) Reserve area - golf
7) Four-star Hotel 18 denims - 720 beds
8) Four-star Hotel 18 denims - 720 beds
9) 9- golf holes course
10) Touristic villas 20 denims - 800 beds
11) 9- golf holes course
12) Five-star hotel 5 denims - 600 beds
13) Five-star hotel 18 denims - 720 beds
14) Restaurants - ski - open theatre open
15) Tourist apartment’s hotel 50 house - 200 beds
The ministry has prepared a new planning and indicative study to the area, and
prepared a primary master plan, where was reached to divide the area into four sectors of
tourism and identify indicators of planning for each of them, the distribution of hotel beds
targeted by forms of various tourist accommodation and forms of varied tourism activity
witch associated with available tourism potential and the added values in each of the four
areas with the total number of beds around 32500 beds.
Figure 4.18 First zone: the southern sector site / 1 / - Southern of Sanowber - Latakia / major tourist
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With observation the following considerations:

a. The limits of the four sectors should be represented by natural forests and trees with
linking the areas together and connect the whole area to the superhighway.
b. Developing a plan for infrastructure, roads and wastewater treatment plants for
each area separately.
c. Develop treatment plant for each tourist facility for the whole area and doing the
studying of technical and economic the treatment plants and also the studying of the
possibility of using treated wastewater in agriculture.
d. Identification the bike and horse roads, golf courses and office buildings for each
area separately, with the need for a special service in the green areas and forests within the
site.
e. Maintain the background area of the Sanowber River and neighboring the first
sector without any tourist activities for keeping the local community with the rehabilitation
process includes comprehensive training and awareness.
f. Reliance on renewable energy (refinery waste - wind energy - solar energy) to take
advantage of them.
Figure 4.19 Second zone: the northern sector site / 4 / - Sanowber - Latakia / integrated tourist
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Figure 4.20 Ground plan for the area of the port and marina
Source: DUMEZ-GTM
Figure 4.21 perspective surround the port

Source: DUMEZ-GTM
139
Figure 4.22 Perspective surround the islands on the lake

Source: DUMEZ-GTM
Figure 4.23 Intention plan for project zone

Source: DUMEZ-GTM
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Figure 4.24 Aerial view for project zone

Source: DUMEZ-GTM
② Afamia Rotana - Latakia

Located on one of the finest shores of Syria, Lattakia city is 4 hours’ drive from
Damascus city and hotel is 30 minutes (approximately 23.2 kilometres) from Lattakia
international airport.
Afamia Rotana Resort is located at the crossroad of the Near East, the property is on a
peninsula, 2 km from the Latakia city centre and has an exceptional beach front, which
makes it an ideal destination for leisure and business travelers alike.
Afamia Rotana Resort Latakia is located on the beach in Latakia's midtown area and
local attractions include Ugarit Ruins.
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Figure 4.25 Afamia Rotana - Latakia

Source: Google images
The all-new 5 star Afamia Rotana Resort is at the forefront of all leisure activities in
the city and Syria’s historical sites. With 246 rooms, suites and villas, massage rooms, five
restaurants and lounges, a conference hall and meeting rooms, a private sandy beach with a
marina and two swimming pools, there’s enough space here to do as your heart desires.

Afamia Rotana is a large hotel featuring two swimming pools and a private, manmade
beach. The rooms are fresh, modern and comfortable and all have balconies overlooking
the coast line.
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Afamia Rotana Resort Latakia combines comfort and high standards for Latakia
accommodation. Secretarial services and Business centre are available for business needs.
When it is time to relax, this Latakia hotel offers Fitness centre and Sauna. The 190 rooms
and 4-star accommodation have Central views. Other hotel services include Currency
exchange and Babysitting or child care. Facilities found in each guestroom include
Refrigerator and Mini bar.

143
One of the best international standards , all rooms all nicely decorated and furnished
and all are medium to large in size and some of them has the view of the Mediterranean
Hotels serves the best international cuisine in the city Resort type surrounded with Palm
trees Large in size with a marble floor and large seats spread around , tea garden in the
corner and dark color reception desk This is the best and latest resort opened in Syria with
a fantastic facilities and service very recommended for Group ,Individual and Business
travelers RD02/10

This beach hotel comprises a total of 246 guest rooms including 1, 2 and 3-bedroom
suites with stunning views of the beach, as well as 14 beach cabins. It truly is an ideal
destination for leisure and business travelers alike. Facilities on offer to guests at this air-
conditioned establishment include a lobby area with a 24-hour reception and check-out
service, a hotel safe, a currency exchange facility and lift access. There is a hairdressing
salon, a cafe, a pub and a restaurant as well as conference facilities and WLAN Internet
access. Guests can also take advantage of the room and laundry services and there is a car
park and covered garage parking for those arriving by car.
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③ Porto Tartous
Porto Tartous is one of the largest touristic projects in Syria and the largest on the
Syrian Coast. The project is located in the heart of the coastal town of Tartous, where it
spans over one and a half kilometers along its Mediterranean shoreline.
Figure 4.31 Porto Tartous

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Tartous is a strategic position, as it is the closest to all Syria cities and is the closest
beach to Damascus, also the largest commercial center in Syria and include one of the most
important ports where the port is witnessing a huge expansion.

As for the legal action filed by New Urban Communities Authority (NUCA) against
Delmar Tourism Development, subsidiary, to terminate the contract of the land piece of
Porto Marina, Refaat said that Amer Group is confident in its sound legal position.

146
The project is a mixed-use development in the coastal zone of Tartous. The project is
composed of three main elements; Atlantis, Porto Mall, and Porto Village. The project
includes an iconic high rise building along the west gate of Tartous, a medium-rise lodging
facility that matches the local heritage architecture equipped with all state-of-art amenities.
The complex comprises Atlantis Tower for residential use and Ancillary with parking
facility, shopping mall, and cinemas. Adjacent to the towers there is a residential-
commercial mixed-use low-rise village with all recreational, food and beverage facilities.

Featuring a five star hotel in a unique architectural style, reminiscent of Portofino

Village in Italy gourmet restaurants, cinemas, residential complexes, offices, a mall, and an
international yacht Marina, Porto Tartous has been designed to meet all of your needs and
indulge you with luxury! The rich offering of luxurious amenities and fun activities from
water sports, to diving and children games and entertainment, planned with your pleasure
in mind, make Porto Tartous a place where families and individuals of all ages may live
their dreams!!
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Porto Tartous on the Mediterranean area of 1.5 km, and which was designed for those
who want to enjoy the sea, shopping & options of luxury for up to the concept of lifestyle
on the Mediterranean Sea and enjoy all the luxuries Porto Tartous, where a prime location
near the center of Country and an hour from the city of Latakia.

148
B- Hainan Province
① Fuyuan West Resort
Hainan, China's largest tropical island is undergoing tremendous changes that are
reshaping its future. Unprecedented growth has attracted millions of tourists and new
residents, transforming the island's economy. This pace of growth, however, is not without
challenges.
Figure 4.37 Fuyuan West Resort

Source: http://www.sasaki.com/project/283/fuyuan-west-resort/
New resorts and planned communities emerge along the coastline in the blink of an
eye, and ignore sensitive ecological settings and the rich history and culture of the island.

149
Valuable natural assets are often replaced by manufactured landscapes that are neither
sustainable nor celebrate the island's unique identity. On the northern coast of Hainan,
however, Sasaki's master plan for a new resort community breaks the mold of the island's
less sensitive development patterns and placeless, themed architecture.

The 116-hectare Fuyuan West Resort District incorporates a contemporary

interpretation of some of the island's historic urban streets and squares, and integrates these
iconic spaces into a landscape that restores damaged dune systems and a nearly lost
mangrove estuary.

150
Situated on a narrow peninsula with the ocean on the north and a saltwater bay to the
south, the Fuyuan West site offers panoramic waterfront views and a diverse ecosystem.
Named after the adjacent historic town of Fuyuan, literally translating as "the origin of
happiness," the environmental setting of the site is enriched by its unique cultural context.

The nearby metropolis of Haikou also offers inspiration from its 19th century colonial
settlement in the Qilou district. Here, the dense urban pattern creates shaded urban streets
and squares, while arcades of colonial-era buildings shade pedestrians from the tropical
heat.

151
Elements from these and other regional influences are interpreted and integrated into
the design for the Fuyuan West Resort. The master plan pays special attention to the
ecology, geology, hydrology, and climate of the site, and design principles are derived
from these site-specific conditions.

The first principle emphasizes the site's two distinctive waterfronts on the ocean and
the bay. Public access to these waterfronts is a priority, with the quieter bay side offering a
series of waterfront parks and the ocean providing beach-oriented recreational
opportunities.

152
Cross-peninsula connections emphasize the link between interior development areas

and the water. The second principle focuses on creating hierarchy in the development.
Density is concentrated around a mixed-use town center inspired by Haikou's historic
Qilou District.

Lower density residential and resort uses such as hotels and spas radiate from this
heart of activity. This also relates to the third principle of creating a pedestrian-focused
community.

153
All neighborhoods are a 5–10 minute walk from the waterfront or the town center.
Finally, the fourth principle considers the development's sustainability.

Open space, building orientation, and larger landscape systems take advantage of
cooling ocean breezes to provide natural ventilation and reduce energy demands.
Environmentally, restoration of the oceanfront dune system and the bayside mangrove
estuary increases species biodiversity and adds resilience against climate change.

154
② Ambitious China Duty Free Group unveils major Hainan Island downtown
Projects and wave of investments – 20/05/09
China Duty Free Group (CDFG), the country’s leading travel retailer, has announced
a major downtown retail development on the resort island of Hainan.
Addressing key suppliers during the TFWA Asia Pacific show in Singapore last week,
CDFG Director Marketing Department Antonio Hao said that the group will open two
downtown duty free stores in the Sanya Bay and Yalong Bay areas for departing tourists –
including both foreigners and Chinese.
Figure 4.48 Sanya Bay and the more exclusive Yalong Bay are major attractions for tourists to Hainan
Source: http://www.moodiereport.com/document.php?c_id=1178&doc_id=20761
Hainan – the only tropical island in China and dubbed the ‘oriental Hawaii’– attracts
18.5 million tourists every year from China and abroad. But its travel retail market is
underdeveloped – shopping currently accounts for just 12% of all tourism income instead
of the 21% domestic and 31% international average.
"Our target is to increase consumption of Hainan tourists to an international level,"
said Hao.
He revealed that the State Council has approved the establishment of downtown duty
free shops on the island. "The Hainan Government supports CDFG and the Customs
General has approved CDFG to open duty free shops," he said.
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As a result the company is swinging into action, with the first 3,500sq m store due to
open in Sanya Bay within five months. That will later be expanded to 7,500sq m and a
second 2,500sq m store added in the nearby (and more exclusive) area of Yalong Bay in
October 2010 as new government policies to facilitate downtown duty free shopping come
into effect.
China Duty Free Group hopes to release details of its merchandising plans to key
brand partners in June. The slated October opening of the first store will focus on perfumes
and cosmetics, watches, jewellery, accessories, confectionery and local products. Fashion
boutiques will follow in the second phase.
NOTE: This is a major strategic push by China Duty Free Group, which is receiving
the highest-level support, including from parent China International Travel Service. The
Moodie Report will be bringing phase-by-phase details of one of the biggest developments
in the history of China's travel retail industry.
Figure 4.49 CDFG outlines its step-by-step plans to develop downtown duty free retailing on Hainan Island
Source: http://www.moodiereport.com/document.php?c_id=1178&doc_id=20761
Targeting Provincial Airports and Border Store
Antonio Hao then moved on to discuss the rich opportunities for duty free and travel
retailing in China’s provincial airports and on its land border crossings.
He said that inbound foreign tourist numbers had increased by an average of +7%
annually between 1999 and 2008, while the outbound Chinese market had grown by an
average of+18.7%
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Figure 4.50 China Civil Arport Construction Planning

Source: China Duty Free Grou
Pertinently he pointed out that of the 175 million outbound travelers in 2008
(foreigners and Chinese), 90% depart the country from locations outside the big three
airports – Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou. Some 86% exit via provincial airports and
land borders while 4% use ferry and railway points.
Those statistics pointed to a huge duty free retailing opportunity for CDFG, Hao said,
especially given the planned surge in Chinese civil airport construction between now and
2020.
Figure 4.51 A Fast-growing Tourist Source Market

Source: China National Tourism Administration
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CDFG has conducted extensive research into its customers’ needs and has identified
price, assortment and service as the keys to driving revenue, he said. The group plans to
focus on broadening its assortment and to continue upgrading its stores, Hao added.
The company’s commitment to heavy investment was showing the dramatic retail
transformation at Shenyang Airport, the Heihe border shop and the Ruili border store. The
impact of such investment could be seen, for example, in a dramatic +96% rise in sales
amid the financial crisis, following the expansion of the 60sq m store into a 2,000sq m
shopping mall in 2008.
"The opening of the Hainan Island duty free shops will also open a new chapter for
China Duty Free Group."
The sub base is at Yalong Bay
Figure 4.52 The sub base is at Yalong Bay

Source: http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/news/2003989/posts
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Yalong Bay Tropical Forest Park in Hainan
Figure 4.53 Wooden villas from the Bird's Nest Hotel punctuate the lush green mountain side
Source: http://travel.chinese.cn/en/article/2010-01/07/content_100323_5.htm
Yalong Bay Tropical Forest Park is the first forest park in the southernmost part of
Hainan Province, 25 kilometers away from the tropical seaside tourist resort of Sanya. The
scenery is amazing, with endless rolling hills, serene gulfs and lush greenery. It boasts a
beautiful tropical forest landscape and is home to tropical semi-deciduous forests. The
natural environment attracts more than 100 kinds of birds and 20 kinds of butterflies here.
Sanya is an important political, economic, cultural and foreign trade port in the
southern part of Hainan, China. It is also a well-known coastal tourist city filled with
tropical landscapes and local customs. It is situated in the southernmost part of China and
has been called “the remotest cape of the earth” since ancient times.
It has a tropical coastal monsoon climate with very warm weather all year around. Its
daily average temperature is 25.4C and annual rainfall is 1,279mm. It is famed for its clear
fresh air and abundant sunshine.
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Scuba diving at an exotic tropical location in China
Figure 4.54 Scuba diving at an exotic tropical location in China

Source: http://xtremesport4u.com/extreme-water-sports/
scuba-diving-at-an-exotic-tropical-location-in-china/
Sanya is becoming more and more popular with scuba divers looking for something
just a little bit different. With its good visibility, warm and colourful waters, abundant
coral life and wide variety of colourful tropical fish, it pretty well has everything to offer.
Baifu Bay & Sun Bay are the best diving sites. You have to reach both with a speedboat
from Yalong Bay. It takes about 10 min. The visibilitiy of the water is up to 8-16 meters
with a lot of red coral and beautiful tropical fish.
They say that scuba diving at Yalong Bay and Dadonghai is as good as the diving in
Bali, Indonesia or Thailand… although some reports say that Yalong is very expensive and
all reports mention that language is a barrier. Almost the entire peninsula is surrounded by
coral reefs which come under the Hainan Sanya Natural Coral Reef Nature Reserve. The
reserve also includes two other coral reef areas: Yalong Bay, a few miles East of Sanya;
and, directly West of Sanya, Xi Mao and Dong Mao Islands, in Sanya Bay.
About 30kms due west of Sanya is the island of Wuzhizhou. The west and north side
of this island is relatively flat with soft white sandy beaches. The sea water there is
extremely clear with a maximum visible depth of 27 meters (90 ft) and is rich in nightlight
snails, sea cucumber, lobsters, sierra fish, urchins, pomfret and colorful tropical fish. The
coral reefs, which are fantastic and of different shapes in the seabed of the southern sea
area, are well-preserved. This is a great place for diving.
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Yalong Bay, no guessing why the commercial core lacks a crowd
Figure 4.55 Yalong Bay, no guessing why the commercial core lacks a crowd
Source: http://thedevelopmentadvisor.com/tda/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/Yalong-Bay-Hainan-China.jpg
Travel map of Yalong Bay
Below is a bird’s eye Yalong Bay map giving you a real feeling of standing or living
there? From your view, you can see the layout of the area with clear main roads, locations
of tourist attractions, parks, resorts, hotels, sea view buildings, such as Shan Hai Tian
Hotel, Royal Garden Hotel, Pearl Sea view Hotel, Landscape Beach Hotel, Resort In time,
Romantic Sea view, Pearl River Garden, etc. With this vivid and beautiful map, tourists
can have a Yalong Bay travel easily and conveniently.
Figure 4.56 Travel map of Yalong Bay

Source: http://www.chinatouristmaps.com/travel/hainan/sanya/yalong-bay-resort.html
161
This is a simple and clear Sanya Bay Tourist map

Showing the layout of the scenic area including the locations of noted resorts,
sunshine coast, famous hotels, main road – Sanya Bay Road, Hot springs, Jade Caving,
South China Sea, West Island Scenic Zone, East Island, etc. In addition, it also plots the
directions to Haikou City, Nanshan, Sanya Downtown and the airport.
Figure 4.57 Travel map of Yalong Bay

Source: http://www.chinatouristmaps.com/travel/hainan/sanya/sanya-bay-tourist-map.html
There is a vivid and visual tourist map of Wuzhizhou
Which is located on the north of Sanya City? It not only clearly maps the exact
locations of all tourist attractions and public services with pictures and photos, but also
plots the tourist ways for the convenience. This colorful and clear Wuzhizhou travel map
shows how to have your travel in this area and what suggested visiting.
Figure 4.58 Tourist Map of Wuzhizhou

Source: http://www.chinatouristmaps.com/travel/hainan/sanya/wuzhizhou-travel.html
162
This exhaustive and bilingual map of Sanya Tropical Beach
Features tourist attractions and places of interest at the Sanya tropical scenic area,
including Site of Sunrise-Viewing & Golf Club, The End of the Earth, Sanya Coral Reef,
Sanya Resort Area, Underwater Sightseeing by Submarine, Hongsha Amusement Park,
Luhuitou (Deer Turning Its Head) Park, etc. The map also shows railway and airway routes
and location of Fenghuang International Airport.
Figure 4.59 Detailed Travel Map of Sanya

Source: http://www.chinatouristmaps.com/travel/hainan/sanya/detailed-map-of-sanya.html
This is a detailed map of Sanya city which maps
The overall layout of Sanya city with major streets & roads, Sanya attractions, hotels,
parks, and other city infrastructure, including Xinfeng Park, Luhuitou (Deer Turning Its
Head) Park, Wanglu Tower, Sanya City Hotel, Hawail Grand Hotel, Oriental Hawail
Grand Hotel, Sanya Sports Center, Sanyawan Grand Hotel, Sanya Mansion, etc.p>
Figure 4.60 This is a detailed map of Sanya city which maps

Source: http://www.chinatouristmaps.com/travel/hainan/sanya/sanya-tourist.html
163
Mandarin Oriental Sanya - Yalong Bay, Hainan Island, China
Mandarin Oriental, Sanya is a secluded retreat situated on the southern tip of China's
picturesque Hainan Island. A perfect hideaway surrounded by lush greenery, protected
coral reefs and a private beach, this exclusive resort combines natural pleasures with
luxury relaxation.
Figure 4.61 A hidden jewel on China's southernmost island, Sanya is waiting to be discovered
Source: http://www.luxurytravelmagazine.com/property/mandarin-oriental-sanya.php
The sea, the sand, the palm trees, finding a tropical paradise in Asia is not surprising,
but discovering that it exists in China is news to much of the world. Hainan, an island that
lies just off the coast of Vietnam, boasts miles of beaches, winding rivers and majestic
mountains that all set the scene for the perfect getaway. Best of all, Hainan remains a
relatively un spoilt treasure.
At the southernmost tip of the island is Sanya, a port city with beautiful sandy
beaches, balmy breezes, and plenty of sunshine. From here one can indulge in water sports,
set off on a fishing expedition, go diving in the South China Sea, explore the forest-
covered mountains, or relax on our pristine private beach.
From every room, suite, pavilion, and villa at this resort, you'll be treated to views of
the sparkling South China Sea, lush landscaped gardens and the pristine protected coral
beach. What's more, the luxurious and spacious interiors combine contemporary designer
flair with artistic touches inspired by Sanya's ethnic minority culture. It's a combination
you won't find anywhere else.
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③ Sanya Beauty Crown Hotel

Located in west Phoenix Road by Linchun River with Xinfeng Road next to its
southern part, the whole construction covers an area of 180,000 sqm with an on-ground
building area of 340,000 sqm and under-ground area of 290,000 sqm.
Figure 4.62 Sanya Beauty Crown Hotel

Source: http://www.whatsonsanya.com/news-23789-sanya-beauty-crown-hotel-expected-to-be-
completed-this-month.html
The construction of Sanya Beauty Crown Hotel has been progressing smoothly and
the project is expected to be completed this month.
Located in west Phoenix Road by Linchun River with Xinfeng Road next to its
southern part, the whole construction covers an area of 180,000 sqm with an on-ground
building area of 340,000 sqm and under-ground area of 290,000 sqm.
Sanya Beauty Crown 7-star Hotel, which is said to be one of the landmark buildings
in Sanya, is expected to open for a trial run by the end of 2013. Sanya Beauty Crown 7-
star Hotel, one of the landmark buildings in Sanya, is expected to open for a trial run by the
end of 2013. Designed by world-class leading design companies, the 7-star luxury hotel is
part of the super-size luxury hotel group project, which includes a 7-star hotel, a lease-hold
platinum, a 5-star serviced apartment, an exhibition and entertainment center and a top
yacht club, Approved in 2008.
The architectural complex was designed by top-level experts from around the world
with the creativity of “Nine Beautiful Trees”, which takes full advantage of Sanya’s
location and natural resources. Being a key project for Sanya, the hotel will become a new
landmark of business, tourism and entertainment in Sanya.
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④ Shenzhou Peninsula, Hainan

Shenzhou Peninsula in Wanning County comprises four south facing beach coves and
a lagoon, and currently has no identity as a tourism destination. Phase 1 of the project
covers an area of 940 ha, including two beach coves and part of the lagoon. AECOM’s
Economics team assessed the local & regional tourism & residential markets, undertook
land use forecasts, and prepared tactical development strategies to promote the Shenzhou
Peninsula as a tourism destination and resort town by creating a strong identity and a range
of quality real estate products and attractions.
Figure 4.63 Shenzhou Peninsula

Source:http://www.aecom.com/Where+We+Are/Asia/Economics/_
projectsList/Shenzhou+Peninsula,+Hainan,+China
In order to assess its financial feasibility, AECOM also analyzed market demand,
development cost, phasing & financing, and generated an integrated financial model which
incorporated the schedule of construction expenditures, expected project cash flow profile,
and project financial ratios.
Services Provided:
Market assessment
Competitive analysis
Demand forecasts
Resort development strategy
Financial analysis
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SWOT Analysis
Table 4.5 SWOT Analysis for Regional tourism of Syrian Costal and Hainan
SWOT Region Regional Tourism
• Tourism sector has been ranked as a top priority in the Syrian
developmental policies and plans
• With improvement of land transport and services infrastructure the
coastal region in general and its coastal cities and seafront in particular,
became an attractive destination for beach and mountain summer recreation
• Either for inland Syrians, Syrian expatriates tourists or for car summer-
Syrian Coast
vacationers from other Arab countries
• In addition to European tourist groups most interested in visiting the
archaeological sites
• Beach tourist compounds already occupy long stretches of coastline south
and north of Tartous, north of Latakia, and at Ras El-Bassit far north of the
coast
• An announcement by the State Council (China’s cabinet) at the end of
2009 of a plan to turn Hainan into an international tourist destination by
2020 has encouraged a flood of new investment
• Visible support from the central government such as holding the annual
Strengths
Boao Forum for Asia (modeled on the Davos World Economic Forum)
solely in the province and duty-free imports for both foreign and domestic
travelers has boosted tourism and real-estate development in the province
• The Hainan Government prepared a policy document- “Hainan
International Tourism Destination Construction Action Plan” to guide the
Hainan
future development of Hainan
• Hainan is providing a “15 days visa free” policy for Group 21 countries,
but this is only applicable to travel groups with 5 or more people, for a
maximum stay in Hainan for 15 days
• Establishment downtown duty free shops
• Opening up Tourism and Related Industries
• Existing Infrastructure Development
• Future Infrastructure Development
• Guangdong – Hainan Railway
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SWOT Region Regional Tourism

• High topical impact on aesthetics and air quality near outlets, limiting
shoreline validity for tourism and recreational uses
• Currently the coastal region has only a modest share of international
tourists visiting Syria
• In the year 2006 the two coastal governorates(Latakia and Tartous)
Syrian Coast
hosted only 3.5% of the total tourist nights spent by international tourists
Weaknesses (non Arabs) as recorded in the hotels
• This indicates in particular that the Syrian coast doesn't attract "sun and
beach" European tourists such as in other Mediterranean coasts including
some neighbouring countries (Turkey and Cyprus)
• The island's ambitions may be affected by a growing number of
Hainan
complaints by domestic tourists about overpricing and scams
• If the coast is to maintain its present market and compete with other
Mediterranean destinations in the long term, the environmental dimension
is essential taking into consideration the increasing environmental
Syrian Coast
awareness and demand not only in Europe but also in Syria and other Arab
countries
• Encouraging environmental tourism
• Hainan as an “international tourism destination” will continue to attract
increasing numbers of high-end tourists, from both domestic and
Opportunities
international of origins, which will strengthen the international brand name
of Hainan Island
Hainan • As a result, land acquisition and resident relocation were carried out
appropriate land without incident
• It is anticipated that the number of the countries enjoying “visa – free
access” will increase, as easy and convenient access is key to building an
international tourist destination
• Destruction of cultural heritage and dilution of the social fabric following
Syrian Coast
uncontrolled development (especially of tourism)
• Increasing pressures on the marine and coastal environment
• Mountain tourism is contributing in forest clearance for more building
Threats
Hainan • Underground casinos have been blamed for corruption on the island, with
illegal gambling operations administered by village and township
committees reportedly receiving police protection
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4.2.3 Some Environmental Projects in Hainan Province

① Mangrove Tree Resort
Situated on a stunning oceanfront parcel in the heart of the Yalong Bay National
Resort District, the Mangrove Tree Resort is one of the most celebrated destinations on
tropical Hainan Island. Sasaki's design for this five-star hotel and its grounds represents a
significant departure from other international branded hotels at Yalong Bay.
Figure 4.64 Mangrove Tree Resort

Source: http://www.sasaki.com/project/98/mangrove-tree-resort/
While most of the hotels in the area are arbitrarily themed or have a generic and
sterile aesthetic, the Mangrove Tree Resort's design vocabulary is closely tied to the local
design vernacular and rich landscape traditions of Hainan Island.

169
Learning from intensive research into the history, culture, climate, and ecology of
Hainan, the architectural character of the resort is a contemporary response to traditional
architecture of the region, expressed through the roof forms, layered facades, connected
courtyard spaces, and extensive use of locally-sourced natural materials. Similarly, the
landscape design incorporates the amenities of a modern resort while also reinterpreting
landscape patterns indigenous to the area—mangroves, rice paddies, tropical fruit orchards,
agricultural fields, and beach dunes.

Beyond the strong regionally-inspired identity, the hotel's layout is also highly
innovative. By grouping hotel rooms into arms that radiate out from central cores, the main
buildings of the complex are expressed as X and Y shapes. This intelligent layout not only
allows for efficient services, but also ensures that over 70% of the 504 rooms have an
ocean view.

170
This unique approach reduces energy demands by capitalizing on cooling daytime

breezes from the sea. Penetrations at strategic locations allow for natural ventilation of
guestroom corridors and major public spaces, such as the lobby, where the distinction
between the indoors and the outdoors is blurred.

The careful juxtaposition of indoor and outdoor space is also reflected in the hotel's
distinctive courtyard layout. Drawing from a traditional Chinese approach to building
organization, the hotel is grouped into three seafront courtyards and three entry courts.

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On the ocean side of the hotel, the west courtyard provides all of the resort's
recreational amenities, including a sprawling tropical pool and a quieter lap pool. The east
courtyard features the cuisine of the region in three different restaurants, including the
signature Thai restaurant in the center, which floats within a series of lily ponds.

The arrival court is shaded by an elegant palm grove that mimics the landscape
character of the region's villages while also filtering views to the building in the distance.
The spa court provides an atmosphere of calm and serenity with trickling waterfalls and
lotus ponds. Finally, the garden court features a planting scheme which recalls the
agricultural landscape of the region's rice paddies, and includes a working farm that
provides fresh herbs and vegetables to the hotel's three restaurants.

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② Future City – SBA Design envisions low carbon city for China
In a continuation of China’s fervent effort to reduce energy consumption on a mass
scale, a grandiose scheme was unveiled by eminent urban planners SBA Design. The
ambitious proposal, dubbed as the Future City, for a meticulously conceived sustainable
city is to take place in the south-west of the tourism island of Hainan.
Figure 4.72 Future City – SBA Design envisions low carbon city for China
Source: http://inhabitat.com/sba-design-unveils-self-sufficient-city-of-the-future-for-china/
The city would righteously provide the future benchmark for energy efficient
development. The mega design will cover a focus area of around 42.8 sqkm; a region
traditionally known for salt production by the use of salines. Firstly the architects
conceptualized this settlement in such a manner so as to allow a level of comprehensive
interaction between rural and urban spatial patterns. Hankering back to the concepts of
garden city, this will also allow the city to be sustainable, where each resident shall
contribute their own share to the city.
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The planners, moreover, look to integrate facilities within this modernistic city that
could help in storage and generation of clean energy. Efficient and renewable services like
harnessing of solar and wind energy, rain water harvesting, recovery of water resources
and energy generation from biological waste will be incorporated. Solar energy production
can especially be effectual in this area as with 300 days of sun per year, an energy
generation potential of 1628-1861 kWh/(qma) is possible.
The zoning and land use pattern will also be effectively dealt with. Corresponding to
particular ecological ‘themes’, the master plan will include a center for each district within
the city. They will be again divided into 9 parts with a specific district function. Mixed
space usage such as living, working, shopping and leisure will be fastidiously integrated
with green spaces in the form of squares, parks and canals. Adding to that a state-of-the-art
Personal Rapid Transit (PRT) system will be installed for effective and smooth
transportation of the inhabitants.
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③ Peter Ruge Archtiekten Unveils Plans for Green Health City in China
Designed by Berlin-based Peter Ruge Archtiekten, is a master plan spread across five
island districts located in China’s Hainan Province.
Figure 4.76 Peter Ruge Archtiekten Unveils Plans for Green Health City in China
Source: http://inhabitat.com/peter-ruge-archtiekten-unveils-the-green-health-city
-prototype-master-plan-for-china/
The city, with a design system based on the concept of “fives” – five elements,
organs, senses, islands and rings, aims to promote the condition of physical and emotional
human health and connect residents to local identity and tradition. The Green City
prioritizes natural land use and is dedicated to reducing energy consumption and footprint
of buildings.
http://inhabitat.com/peter-ruge-archtiekten-unveils-the-green-health-city-prototype-master-plan-for-china/
175
It would generate more that 70% of its energy using wind turbines, bio gas, and
photovoltaic cells and would utilize hydraulic systems and smart energy saving devices.
The Health City comprises medical facilities that treat illness, provide diagnosis, cure and
prevention.
The Future City is all about high-tech systems: e-cars, magnetic railway network and
various battery powered transportation options. The international City is dedicated to
knowledge sharing and developing new models of sustainable development in China’s
healthcare.
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The Green City has been presented at the Boao Forum for Asia Annual Conference,
the UN Rio+20 Implementation Summit in Berlin and the 9th Asia Pacific Week Berlin as
a prototype for health and sustainability-oriented planning strategies.
④ Chengmai Old Town CITIC

Chengmai Old Town, Hainan, and PRC: The planning objective of this residential
resort is to create a development that integrates four disparate parcels into a unified
development identity through the creation of a garden-like atmosphere. This is
accomplished by maximizing the connection that residents have with their natural
environment and to all the unique natural amenities offered by the site, including
waterfalls, an artifact park and a linear riverfront park among others.
Figure 4.81 Chengmai Old Town CITIC

Source: http://www.mcmgroup.com/practices/leisure-tourism/chengmai-old-town-citic
-chengmai-old-town-hainan-prc/
177
⑤ Hainan Red Flag Town

Hainan, PRC: Sited on a 3,375 mu lakeside site, this luxury resort lifestyle destination
integrates man and nature by maximizing the public use of lakefront property and
establishing a compelling landscape connection between five distinct zones of activities
including the Chinese Culture Zone, the Resort Zone, the High-end Residential Zone, the
Agriculture Eco Experience Park and, finally, the Sports Zone.

Source: http://www.mcmgroup.com/practices/leisure-tourism/hainan-red-flag-town-hainan-prc/
⑥ Ding Rong Lake Eco-Agriculture Resort

Hainan, PRC: The Eco-Agriculture Resort is divided into two halves with the
predominately agrarian south-eastern half devoted to public functions, attractions and a
mansion development while the generally lakeside-oriented north-west portion is dedicated
to more private residential purposes. The main design concept is to create a juxtaposition
of two diverse yet complimentary lifestyle sectors: a more active, tourist-dependent zone in
a pastoral setting featuring wetlands verses a more relaxed, resort-lifestyle waterfront
district.

Source: http://www.mcmgroup.com/practices/leisure-tourism/ding-rong-lake-eco-agriculture-resort-hainan-
178
SWOT Analysis
Table 4.6 SWOT Analysis for the environmental capital
SWOT Region Environmental capital
• Coastal areas in the Eastern Mediterranean region have ever possessed

more favourable climatic and agricultural conditions due to their higher
rainfall and abundant freshwater resources for human settlement than
inland, apart from a few permanent river valleys
• Workshop held in 2004 for prioritizing the environmental problems of the
Syrian Coast
Syrian coastal region
• The Syrian coast 2003 "Diagnostic Analysis"
Strengths • The famous white cliffs at Burjislam (20 Km north of Latakia), which are
considered as one of the most important natural assets in Syria's coastal
zone, are fortunately protected in good condition
• Hainan aims to become a leading ecological community in China

• Hainan’s natural advantages tropical climate and extensive sandy beaches
Hainan
have attracted resort-chain developers
• Hainan’s reputation of having the cleanest air in China
• In view of the relatively short seafront of Syria, the coastline natural

landscape and ecological features and habitats are under concentrated
pressure
Syrian Coast
• Physical alteration by leveling, dredging, dumping of earth and rock,
Weaknesses concretization and construction works

• Illegal mining of sand and sandstone
• Infrastructure development (including enhancement of the transportation

Hainan
system) and oil and gas exploration may conflict with the process
• Promoting efficient use of resources

Syrian Coast
• Controlling pollution
• The newly-promoted Hainan Province was launched as an experimental

Opportunities area amid high expectations of developing in its unique way by capitalizing
Hainan
on its wealth of natural resources
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SWOT Region Environmental capital
• Physical alteration of the coastline

• Degradation of cultural heritage
• Degradation of natural heritage
• Pollution by solid wastes and coastal litter
• Water pollution
Syrian Coast
• Effects on marine ecological resources and biodiversity
• Such works have accelerated erosion of the adjacent shoreline because
Threats they did not adequately account for coastal dynamics and processes. Sea
level rise resulting from climate change may aggravate this erosion in
future
• There will be challenges for the Hainan’s government in balancing

economic growth and environmental protection
Hainan
• The project highlights that as ecological health is the foundation of
Hainan’s development; environmental protection is a basic necessity
4.3 Summary
This hope rooted from the strong assets and potentials that Syrian Cast has. The next
chapter will deal with the secret of Hainan’s success as a regional tourism destination and
answers the research main question.
As concluded from the SWOT, statistics, websites, regional and tourism Analysis,
both regions shared some similarities like the geographical importance location on the
Mediterranean Sea and China Sea, while the demographic statistics showed the difference
population in 2011 between them, which is about 9 millions in Hainan Province and 2
millions in Syrian Costal Region. The climate of Hainan Province is hot more and
humidity than Syrian Coastal Region considering the ocean background of the island.
From the strategic development, the Hainan Province has all the infrastructure and services
which mainly were settled due to the an announcement by the State Council of a plan to
turn Hainan into an international tourist destination by 2020, and now the region is
witnessing a new flow of projects according to the new strategic plan, while the
development stopped that Syrian Coastal Region during the war in Syria, it is still lack the
sufficient infrastructure and services to attain a higher position as a regional tourism
destination.
180
As also the statistical data of regional tourism assured the differences in room
occupancies and number of hotels, and by analyzing the most visited areas, Syrian Coast
depending mainly on beach tourism which concentrated along the region’s coast, then on
mountainous tourism, archaeological sites, while in Hainan the most visited areas spread
over the coastline and then the other areas as a second degree of importance.
The management of tourism in Hainan Province seems to be more welcoming to
investments and businesses than Syrian Coastal Region, may be that refers to the stability
and assessments policies that Hainan follows in strategic planning, which tend to stick to
the plan and figure out the challenges and problems and then try to fix and edit the
strategic lines according to the new challenges to be always on the right track and achieve
main objectives. In Syrian Coast the management always lacks transparency and clear
plans to achieve the main objectives beside the long boring procedures and official papers
which always have to be referenced to the minister of tourism.
The Syrian dependency on tourism is more than Chinese one, while both Syrian and
Chinese understand and feel the benefits of tourism and how it brings investments and
provide foreign currencies to the country regardless the negative impacts caused by
tourism.
Lattakia - Ras Al-Bassit

181
182
5 Reasons of Success, Conclusions and Recommendations
5.1 The reason of success

Here comes the answer to the research main question, how has regional tourism been
successful experience, the following lines will hold the answer, as in my opinion the secret
of success of Hainan province is to be summed in combination of factors, by which they
worked in parallel to escalate regional tourism and to achieve a successful regional tourism
destination.
5.1.1 Foreword
In December 2009, China’s state council announced ambitious plans for Hainan – the
largest special economic zone (SEZ) in China and its only tropical island province – to
elevate it into a world-class international tourism destination by 2020.
Despite the challenging economic environment, Hainan is well on track to achieve
this goal. WTTC’s economic impact research, conducted in association with Oxford
Economics, indicates that progress – in terms of Travel & Tourism’s contribution to
economic growth– has been extremely impressive over the past few years. And the
forecasts suggest the growth is set to continue.
With 12.6% average annual growth in tourism expenditure (visitor exports) expected
over the 10-year period 2011 to 2021 (or 16.4% in nominal terms), Hainan is predicted to
outperform all the world’s national economies by this measure, with visitor spending
reaching Rmb110.8 billion (79.9%) by 2021. This rapid growth would propel Hainan into
first place in WTTC’s League Table rankings – in terms of 10-year annual real growth.
The main driver of this growth will be Travel & Tourism investment, which is already
estimated to have reached Rmb76.3 billion, or 50.9% of total capital investment, in 2011.
This should rise by 9.5% per annum to reach Rmb189.1 billion – or 53.2% of total
investment – by 2021. This massive investment in infrastructure, hotels and resorts, as well
as in product development, coupled with a commitment by the Hainan Provincial
Government to focus on Travel & Tourism as a strategic priority, should continue to drive
leisure and business travel demand, firmly establishing Hainan at the centre of the world
tourism stage.
Nevertheless, there is no room for complacency, especially given the continuing
economic uncertainties in many of the world’s leading Travel & Tourism source markets.
While the Hainan Provincial Government clearly recognizes Travel & Tourism’s strategic
183
importance, every effort must be made to nurture the industry to ensure it develops
sustainably. It will require careful monitoring and control on the part of the government,
not to mention close collaboration with the municipal authorities and the private sector.
5.1.2 China’s Hawaii?
A new tropical destination with enormous potential
For centuries Hainan was part of Guangdong Province, but was designated a province
in its own right on 26 April 1988. Subsequently, no doubt in recognition of its potential for
economic growth through tourism, this resource-rich tropical island was declared a Special
Economic Zone (SEZ) by Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping – the largest SEZ in China –
benefiting from preferential development policies, as well as incentives for businesses
investing in the island.
Hainan has often been called the ‘Hawaii of the Far East’, or the ‘Chinese Hawaii’. It
is indeed China’s only tropical beach location, lying at the same latitude (18°N) as the
Hawaiian Islands. But it only really started to focus in earnest on developing tourism in the
mid-1990s. This was probably due to the fact that, before then, the Chinese themselves
were not avid travelers – let alone sun & beach enthusiasts.
Indeed, there was little awareness internationally of Hainan’s potential as a tourism
destination until it hosted the Miss World competition for the first time in 1997, at the
newly opened Sheraton Sanya – the first internationally branded hotel in the province.
Hainan had traditionally been almost 100% dependent on agriculture, with its main
resources being fish, fruit and pearls.
First Master Plan completed in 2002
The first Tourism Development Master Plan was completed in 2002, with the support
of the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). Tourism development on the island
appeared to be relatively slow, if steady, through most of the first decade of the century.
Tourism investment and demand picked up considerable steam after China’s State Council
declared, in December 2009, that Hainan Island was to be elevated into an international
resort island destination.
By this time, the Government of Hainan Province of the People’s Republic of China
(hereafter referred to as the Hainan Provincial Government) had updated the Master Plan
(in 2008), had completed much of the necessary infrastructure for the first major new
resorts, and had attracted a number of big investors in the island’s tourism – many of
whom, in turn, had secured partnership agreements with international hotel groups for the
operation of hotels and resorts.
184
The staggering pace of development

Over the last few years, the pace of development has been staggering – whether in
terms of hotels/resorts, attractions or infrastructure projects like the island’s high-speed
East Ring Intercity Rail Link – and this is not expected to ease for at least a decade. Hainan
is now firmly on the world tourism map.
5.1.3 Realizing Hainan’s Tourism Potential
Long-term, co-ordinate planning is critical – especially in terms of HR needs
In order to achieve, or perhaps even surpass the baseline forecasts – which point to an
annual average growth of 9.5% in terms of Travel & Tourism investment and 12.6% in
visitor ‘exports’ (in Hainan’s case, non-resident visitor expenditure including fares) from
2011 to 2021 – certain key factors need to be assured.
Most importantly, these include a well-planned, co-ordinate, and carefully
implemented sustainable tourism development strategy, significant investment in
education and training to provide the human resources critical to coping with the growth in
demand, sustained and effective marketing and promotions, and in-depth market research
to achieve optimum product and market diversification.
Additional measures suggested in this report are intended to set the stage to help
ensure the larger rewards that Travel & Tourism can bring to Hainan Province over the
short, medium and longer term. The following provides a summary of WTTC’s main
conclusions and recommendations.
Tourism Policy
Benefiting from central government support
The Hainan Provincial Government, with the support of the central government
authorities, has made concerted efforts to pave the way for Hainan’s development as an
international tourism destination – in the context of making Hainan an export-oriented
economy following its designation as an SEZ.
The State Council decree detailing the development of Hainan into an international
tourism destination included six specific strategies:
① Developing Hainan into a pilot region for China’s tourism industry reform.
② Building the island into a world-class leisure travel and holiday tourist destination.
③ Establishing a demonstration zone for China’s ecological development.
④ Making Hainan an important platform for international economic co-operation and
cultural exchanges.
⑤ Developing resources in the South China Sea.
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⑥ Developing Hainan into a service base as well as a modern national tropical

agricultural base.
Importance of agricultural products for tourism
The further development of agriculture will be extremely important in boosting Travel
& Tourism’s contribution to the province’s gross domestic product (GDP) since, for the
time being, the bulk of Hainan’s agricultural produce – such as tropical fruits – are
exported to Mainland China. This means that that the new, upscale hotels are forced to
import a large proportion of all the fruits and other fresh food they serve to their guests –
not only an expensive proposition, but also one which reduces Travel & Tourism’s positive
economic impact. Increased self-reliance in terms of agriculture and fishing is clearly a
worthy goal.
Increasing policy measures to attract new tourism demand
Hainan has made every endeavor to develop tourism as well as other service
industries since its policy of opening up the market was first adopted. As an example, it
was the first province to introduce visa-free entry into Hainan and loosen restrictions on
airlines’ rights to operate flights to the province. As a result, the island has the most ‘open’
skies in the whole of China.
In addition, the central government allowed Hainan to develop duty-free shopping –
not just for foreigners but also for Mainland Chinese. As the results have already
demonstrated, this is proving a major draw – especially among Mainland Chinese –
generating a surge in arrivals growth since 2010. A second duty-free store opened at the
end of 2011 and new outlets are being developed/planned.
Tourism Planning
A sound long-term strategy
The decision by China’s State Council to develop Hainan into an international island
resort destination was largely based on the foresight of the Hainan Provincial Government,
with the valuable contribution of the Hainan Provincial Tourism Development
Commission (HTDC), in drawing up a sound, achievable strategy for tourism
development.
Some 20,000 hectares of land were put aside for tourism projects, including shopping
complexes, theme parks, other attractions and resort developments. During the 12th Five
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year Plan period, 2011-2015, more than 15 major tourism resorts and around 65 five- star
plus hotels are scheduled to be completed.
But one not necessarily respected at municipal level
At provincial government level, there is clear recognition of the need for sustainable
tourism development, and this underlies all policy and planning. Yet, while there is close
collaboration between the Hainan Provincial Government and the HTDC, as well as
between the Commission and the private sector – notably, with regard to the operation of
resorts and attractions – there appears to be much less communication and co-operation
with, and between, the different municipalities, which are directly responsible for
individual tourism projects in their respective regions.
Resulting in a lack of co-ordination
This is of some concern since it points to a lack of co-ordination with regard to overall
planning, as well as a lack of clarity in terms of the number and size of projects across the
island and related human capital needs. Without this information, updated on a regular
basis, there is a strong chance that the risk of problems resulting from excessive
development, such as water shortages and inadequate human resources, will not be fully
appreciated.
It also means that the provincial government will be less able to adapt development
plans promptly to changing market conditions – a common occurrence in the Travel &
Tourism industry worldwide.
Government Expenditure
Strong commitment in terms of infrastructure development
Importance of sustained government support and funding
Human Resources
A diversified economy
Travel & Tourism directly supports around 10% of total employment
The forecast growth in employment will not meet the growth in demand
Transport Infrastructure
Ensuring that Travel & Tourism’s benefits spread to all parts of the island
New airport confirmed
Open Markets and Skies
Leading the way in China
Market and Product Diversification
Huge opportunities for new, higher-yield products
187
Such as nature-based tourism

Meetings and incentive business
Marketing and Promotions
Creating new brand awareness
Promoting Hainan abroad
Natural, Social and Cultural Environments
A rich heritage worthy of protection and preservation
5.1.4 Executive Summary
The growing importance of travel & tourism to China’s Hainan province is
indisputable significant strides have already been made to put the necessary infrastructure
in place to support the forecast growth the medium to longer term. Nevertheless, the big
challenge now is to ensure the right kind of growth to ensure sustainable development.
The Government of Hainan Province of the People’s Republic of China clearly
recognizes Travel & Tourism’s potential economic and social contribution. Yet the
extremely rapid development forecast, in line with plans to turn Hainan into an
international resort destination, needs to be carefully monitored. If not, there is a risk of
excessive, uncontrolled supply-side growth, which could undermine Hainan’s full Travel
& Tourism potential.
The baseline forecasts for Hainan Province are extremely positive and there is every
reason to believe that they will be easily achieved – as long as development is controlled.
The massive growth in investment – in infrastructure, hotels and product development –
coupled with an increased focus by the Hainan Provincial Government on Travel &
Tourism as a strategic priority, will help to drive growing leisure and business travel
demand, propelling Hainan onto the world stage as a leading international tourism
destination.
The fact that Hainan is a relatively unknown destination, offering different tourism
products and a novel holiday experience, and that it is widely perceived to be a safe and
secure destination for tourists, will undoubtedly increase its appeal.
A rich diversity of attractions and tourism resources
An extremely favorable environment for investors
Attracting huge interest from many different stakeholders
But this in turn creates potential risks
Importance of sustained government support and funding
188
5.2 The proposed tourism strategy in the Syrian Coastal Region

1) Investment all optimally special features and the tourism potential that available in
the region and formulate attractive and high-quality tourism products which fit in with the
requirements of tourism markets.
2) Diversification the patterns and tourism products, targeting new tourist markets and
develop existing markets.
Figure 5.1 Syrian Coastal Region Sightseeing Map

Source: Made by author
189
3) Develop and strengthen the

infrastructure and essential to establish
tourist facilities.
4) Development of methods to
access and update the border crossings
and tourist service centers.
5) Expand Bassel airport and
develop a mechanism to invest it in the
field of tourism (increased global travel
and activate the charter flight and air
transport between provinces).
6) Promoting and organizing
interior and exterior marine tours and
work for achievement of tourist harbors
in Ras al-Basit, Jableh and Baniyas, and
achieve the complementarity among
them.
7) Create outlets tourist separated
from the commercial port and modern
passenger terminals.
Figure 5.2 Syrian Coast transport and water surfaces

Source: Google maps edited by author
190
8) Investment the archaeological

and historical areas
9) Using scientific methods for
more attractive and relevant economic
ownership while maintaining the
historical impact and ensure
sustainability factor.
10) Encouraging religious tourism.
11) Setting up tourism management
schemes of archaeological sites and
implement lighting of these sites as well
as sound and light shows.
12) Establish landscaped gardens
around archeological sites with simple
serve stalls and toilets services.
13) Improve the level of services in
archaeological and cultural sites.
14) Build Phoenician cities that
mimic the lives of the ancient city, and
the establishment markets for the
character and handmade products
inspired the life in Ugarit and Amrit.
Figure 5.3 Archaeological and historical sites

191
15) Work on the development of

mountain tourism and ensure
sustainability in accordance of the
international and standards improve
requirements.
16) Encouraging eco-tourism,
exploration tourism and provide the
necessary needs and equipment for the
investment of existing reserves.
17) Giving special attention to the
group trips, universities and youth groups
and youth bodies.
18) Work to achieve a balance in the
distribution of tourism investment
between the mountains and the coast.
19) Establishing and equipping
places for camping and hiking in the
appropriate locations such as forests and
shores of lakes, with an emphasis on
cleanliness and avoiding fires.
20) Establish a zoo in the framework
of an integrated environmental and
recruitment unfamiliar locally vital
patterns, (Vital diversity).
Figure 5.4 Natural tourist places in the Syrian Coastal Region

192
21) Create an integrated tourism

projects between the beach and the
mountain, and provide facilities and
encourage conditional investment to
achieve a balanced sustainable tourism
development.
22) Encourage investment in
projects and events such as (water sports
cities - the cable car ...).
23) Holding an exposition of marine
tourism in Syrian Coast and inviting
Mediterranean countries, organizations
and agencies of travel and tourism.
24) The need to repurpose the sport
city as a cultural versatile area throughout
the year includes multi-purpose halls,
outdoor cinema and reorganization the
green zones.
25) Improve the level of services in
the current touristic areas.
Figure 5.5 Acquisition tourist areas, existing and proposed

tourist places of Syrian Coastal Region
193
Figure 5.6 The proposed touristic strategy of regional planning study for Syrian Coastal Region
194
5.3 Conclusions and General recommendations

5.3.1 Conclusions
To sum up, the differences in regional tourism between Syrian Coastal Region and
Hainan Province were presented previously, these differences do not regret three facts
(factors), which may been obstacles for development of the tourism sector.
Firstly, the fact that Syrian Coast is located in a developing country while Hainan is
in a developed one, which maybe an obstacle for development but also an opportunity, in
the sense that, to provide the money needed for development this factor may affect the
strategic plan to be deviated from its path. That reflects the economic situation of the
region, as this research is not concerned about the difference of economic situation, but
concerns about how to learn from the successful example of Hainan to serve Syrian Coast
strategic planning to be in a better position regarding its assets and potentials.
Secondly, the political situation, Hainan Province enjoys an enough dynamic
atmosphere which encourages investing and developing regardless personal benefits and
interests, the atmosphere which believes in and looks only after the community and public
benefits, on the contrary the case in Syrian Coastal Region, which witnessed two decades
of unhealthy and less dynamic atmosphere that looked only after the personal benefits
regardless community and public benefits, that kind of atmosphere repels investments and
businesses away regardless the cheap available labor existing adding to that the boring
bureaucracy of official papers that should be fulfilled.
Thirdly, the location plays an important role, to attract both tourists and investments
to regions, Syrian coast is located in the Middle East and very close to the Arab-Israeli
conflict zone, this factor plays an important role in the business and tourism atmospheres.
According to Chinese experience, tourism development raises many issues that are in
the domain of government, including issues related to urban fabric and infrastructure, the
conservation of historic and cultural buildings and zones, controlling pressures for
development, overcrowding, pollution, the quality of jobs, and accommodating new
technologies and business forms. But government alone cannot resolve such problems,
requiring instead involvement of all stakeholders, the development of consensus, and the
promotion of public-private-community partnerships. In these partnerships, municipal
authorities, because of their responsibilities, democratic mandate, and perhaps above all,
because of their resources, should be a key player. It is important, however, that the
municipality does not dominate the process, rather acting as a catalyst to bring others
together and setting an example by its own actions.
195
Private-public partnerships can help the establishment of sustainable tourist facilities

in urban and rural areas, develop attractions and activities related to cultural heritage of the
built environment, historic districts, natural areas, promote environmentally friendly modes
of transportation and reduce tourism-related traffic, develop projects to mitigate damage to
destroyed environment, provide information to tourist on appropriate behaviour and risks,
integrate sustainable development education in local universities and schools and tourism
into curriculum, promote networks for information, and research on sustainable tourism.
To accomplish this, however, requires policy institutions, the tourist industry, urban and
regional planning, and the civil society as whole to work together so far-reaching solutions
are reached in the field of tourism.
5.3.2 General recommendations
- Ensure that Travel & Tourism is factored into mainstream policies for employment,
trade, investment and education, ensuring that the underlying policy framework is
conducive to sustainable growth.
- Promote Travel & Tourism’s impact – and its potential future impact – across the
wider economy, as well as its strategic importance as a catalyst for other industries and
entrepreneurial activity.
- Measure the economic impact of Travel & Tourism by developing a Tourism
Satellite Account, communicating results to all levels of government, industry and local
communities.
- Improve understanding within government and the local industry of Travel &
Tourism demand trends by continuously monitoring market trends and behavior, so as to
ensure that the development of supply better meets marketplace needs.
- Organise regular meetings and workshops, bringing together all stakeholders in
Syrian Coast’s Travel & Tourism – from within and outside Syrian Coastal Region – to
review recent developments, discuss challenges and identify new opportunities for growth
and diversification.
- Establish a dedicated unit to keep close track of all municipal development plans, as
well as to monitor, anticipate and adapt overall development, including human resource
needs, to changing trends in Travel & Tourism demand.
- Upgrade marketing and promotions to match prevailing competitive approaches,
ensuring the HTDC operates in partnership with the different municipalities and the
private/operating sector, co-coordinating all promotional efforts, thereby encouraging the
buy-in of all stakeholders and achieving more cost-effective campaigns and activities.
196
- Encourage market and product diversification that balances support for traditional
markets such as sun & beach and golf, while avoiding over-dependence on these markets.
- Market and promote more effectively to avoid excessive concentration of demand in
time and space, and to increase demand in other segments and areas so as to spread the
benefits of tourism to all parts of the Coastal Region.
- Promote a positive image of the Travel & Tourism industry among members of
government, in schools and with the public as a provider of career opportunities for all
people of Syrian Coastal region, in addition to just jobs.
- Place education and training at the forefront of Travel & Tourism development,
expanding facilities for tertiary education in the sector and introducing Travel & Tourism
into the secondary school curricula.
- Ensure that formal education and vocational training systems are adapted to the
rapidly changing human resource needs of the industry, covering a variety of skills and
customer service.
- Recognise Travel & Tourism’s potential to provide jobs for young people, first-time
job seekers, and retired people, or working mothers looking for part-time employment.
- Recognise that Travel & Tourism employment, in addition to providing jobs in the
main cities and mega-resorts, can also include working in small businesses and local
communities throughout the country.
- Bridge the gap between the education authorities and the industry, and establish
public private sector liaison groups to plan ahead for the future human resource
development needs of the industry.
- Continue to pursue and open up air transport markets and expand liberal aviation
accords to attract new scheduled services, as well as introducing new incentive schemes to
encourage year-round operators.
- Develop fiscal regimes that encourage tourism growth, exports, investment,
infrastructure, business innovation and job creation.
- In order to ensure a continuing high level of consumer safety, build safety and
security provisions into Travel & Tourism strategies, especially in terms of overall policing
and consumer protection.
- Encourage greater market and product diversification in order to avoid over-
dependence on sun and beach markets, as well as to increase yield;
- Without a sophisticated airport tourism development plan will fail.
197
- An advanced airport to receive the international aviation that will speed up the
tourism development process effectively.
- Redesign the port to receive the tour.
- Improve public transportation to transport tourists from the city to the tourist sites.
- Establish a dedicated Syrian Coastal Region Convention Bureau to co-ordinate all
meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE), whether business or leisure
events, for Syrian Coast’s different municipalities;
- Closely monitor the development of theme parks and other attractions, encouraging
the use of experts with regard to construction, operation and marketing and promotions, to
ensure consistent quality.
- New markets and different consumer segments should be targeted and promoted in
the framework of a medium-term Marketing Plan.
- Establish clear policies and guidelines for planned and sustainable tourism
expansion across the country.
- Monitor carefully areas of risk such as inadequate water supply, so as to avoid
problems experienced in other major resort destinations, and anticipate and plan ahead
with regard to consumption, waste and resource utilisation, in order to meet the projected
growth in Travel & Tourism demand while protecting natural resources.
- Closely monitor local food supplies to ensure that, as tourism grows, the increased
demand for food will not put excessive strains on local agricultural produce such as fish
stocks in and around Syrian Coastal Region.
- Promote the sustainable development of Travel & Tourism as a policy across the
entire industry/country, not just as a policy for rural and nature-based tourism.
- Introduce pilot projects to evaluate and demonstrate local sustainability.
- Ensure that the socio-economic, cultural and environmental benefits of Travel &
Tourism are spread equitably across the population in all parts of the country, and
recognise the need for local community engagement and empowerment.
- Develop and promote a national heritage designation with clearly defined criteria to
support quality. Accompany this with increased government funding for the development
and promotion of identified areas of particular heritage value, focusing on national and
international designations.
198
Figure 5.7 Model of the Strategic Planning process of Regional tourism

development in the Syrian Coastal Region Source: Edit by author
199
For the planners

Planner has an important democratic task: “Sharing or withholding information,
encouraging or discouraging public participation, city planners can nurture public hope or
deepen citizen’s resignation.”
Planners should think about how to:
① Cultivate community networks of liaisons and contacts.
② Listen carefully
③ Notify less organized interests in the planning process.
④ Educate citizens and community organizations
⑤ Supply technical and political information,
⑥ Ensure non-professionals have access to documents and information
⑦ Encourage community-based groups to press for full information on proposed
projects.
⑧ Develop skills to work with groups.
⑨ Emphasize the importance of building their own power, even before
negotiations begin.
⑩ Encourage independent, community-based project reviews.
⑪ Anticipate political/economic pressure.
Therefore planners and planning can legitimately be concerned with health,
education and social issues, as well as the more traditional land use concerns.
Since we maybe could not change or adjust the Syrian political system, based on the
presently conditions I would like to come up some suggestion points:
First, urban and regional planning should be settled in a more clean,
competitive, open and comprehensive procedure. Excepting the special secret protection
projects, all the urban planning in 20-50 years shall be introduced in to visible
market, which let all urban planners and architectures be able to involve in and bring
their creativity into play.
Second, free speech in tourism planning proposal shall be via internet, formal
hearings, public exhibitions and other measures to maximally collect public opinion. In
order to reach the maximum credibility, public involvement shall be open to different
social classes instead of only to the profit related class.
Third, implementation of the transparent supervision system to urban and regional
planning shall be strictly carried on. Via annual or period checking up the urban planning’s
projects; the results should be released via internet, public Medias, formal hearings and
200
other effective measurements. Supervision system shall adopt all the resources information
and controlled by the elective people from different classes peoples. Through this
transparent supervision system, we can reach the tourism planning developing in correct
direction and getting the right results.
Rural stone house in Al-Drekish area – Tartous

201
202
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
In order to be fair to the facts, I must recognise here the effort devoted by Prof.
Peifeng Yang my supervisor in China. The patient attention, comments, directions and
re-directions I received from him have constantly improved the work. I especially value
my meetings with Mr. Yang, as it has been significantly enriching to have the
opportunity to closely observe and absorb their experienced and wise approach to
critical and systematic thinking. Besides developing great admiration for him
competency as professor, I appreciate and admire his wonderful personality.
And not forgetting the supporting from Prof. Tarek Barakat my supervisor in my
home Syria, for his excellent guidance, caring, patience, and providing me with an
excellent atmosphere for doing research.
I would especially like to thank my parents father and mother that enabled me to
have this experience. I profoundly appreciated the love and belief of my brothers and
sisters: Firas, Amal, Alaa, Mirna, Hiba and my relatives. The opportunity to engage in
the Masters Course could not happen without their support. More importantly, the
conclusion of the work could not have been accomplished without the constant calls,
attention and encouragement from them. Also to my best friend, friends in Syria, and to
all of those that I have met here in China. It was a great mix work and a lot’s of fun! and
experiencing different cultures has impacted me deeply.
I would like to thank the Government of Syria Arab Republic (Ministry of Higher
Education), Chinese scholarships council (CSC) and Chongqing University for
offering me the financial, academic and technical support to pursue the Master
programme here in Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning. And also Tishreen
University to give me this chance to continue my study in China.
Last, but not the least, I thank my God to give me the strength and determination
to complete this research.
Bashar Dayoub
2014.5
203
204
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Regional Tourism Based On Strategic Planning: A Comparative Study Of: Hainan Province, China & Coastal Region, Syria

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Regional Tourism Based On Strategic Planning: A Comparative Study Of: Hainan Province, China & Coastal Region, Syria

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基于战略规划的区域旅游研究

A Thesis Submitted to Chongqing University

in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirement for the

Master’s Degree of Engineering

Supervised by Prof. Yang Peifeng

College of Architecture and Urban Planning of

Keywords: Syrian Coastal Region, Hainan Province, Strategic Plans,

2.6.7 Non-government regions and eco-museums: .......................................................... 24

3.4 TOURISM, TOURISM DEVELOPMENT, URBAN DEVELOPMENT AND

1.2 Research Problem

1.3 Research aims & objectives

1.4 Research questions

1.5 Research methodology and structure

It is widely acknowledged that planning is crucial to successful tourism

2.1 Tourism Development and Economic Growth

2.2 Tourism Growth

Figure 2.1 International Tourist Arrivals by region (million) - Source:

2.3 Tourism and World Wide Web

2.4 Tourism in other words

2.4.2 Urban Tourism

2.4.3 Rural Tourism

2.5 Tourism Planning

Figure 2.4 Traditional Scheme of Tourism Planning

2.5.1 Rationale of Tourism Planning

Tourism is a complicated, multi-sectoral, and fragmented activity, involving

2.5.2 Integrated Tourism Planning

Interdisciplinary: disciplines should transcend sectorial boundaries; - vertical:

promotes the development of symbiotic tourism-park-community relationships. The

2.6 Regional Tourism

2.6.6 Sustainable Regional Development

2.6.7 Non-government regions and eco-museums:

2.6.9 Specialty regions:

2.7 Defining strategy

definition of strategy is: “Something an organisation needs or uses in order to win or

Figure 2.8 Framework for Strategic Planning in Destinations - Source: SusTEn

2.8 Strategic planning

Many organizations view strategic planning as a process for determining where an

There is a clear recognition of the interdependence and integration among the

includes all of the businesses stakeholders — is valuable since it offers a different

2.9 Impacts of Travel and Tourism

③ Economic Dependence of the Local Communities on Tourism

Direct impact on natural resources, both renewable and nonrenewable, in the

3) assess and allow for risks,

2.12 Literature review Summary

Meanwhile, the methodological framework to establish the process of strategic

3.1 Syrian Coast Region

3.1.3 Major problems and issues

Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tartus http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tartus_Governorate

3.1.5 Overview on Tartous

3.2 Hainan Province

a surge in the province's economy, with a year-on-year increase in investment of 136.9% in

Figure 3.13 Hainan Map & Geography

Figure 3.14 Hainan Transportation

② Haikou New Port (海口新港) opened June 1, 2005

3.3 Tourism, Tourism Development, Urban Development and

Ugarit: This city is situated on important archaeological location far 15 km northen of

Figure 3.16 The current situation of the tourism sector

Figure 3.17 Latakia Top Tourist Attractions

e- Ecotourism (Nature Reserves):

traditional environments. This contradiction needs to be addressed from a sustainable

Figure 3.18 Tourism potential in Latakia

① Most important current and target tourism products:

Figure 3.19 Orientations of maritime transport