Characterization of tourism and impacts on local communities in the Bijagós archipelago (Guinea-Bissau)

Abstract

The tourist effect has generated analyzes, studies and research on the relationships it produces as a result of travel and the negative or positive effects produced on the receiving populations. Bearing in mind that residents of tourist destinations are not usually consulted when tourism begins to develop in their locality. This article aims to present a discussion of authors who describe about the impacts of tourism in the receiving communities and the importance of knowing the perception and attitude of residents about tourism and its impacts. Through bibliographic research it was possible to see that the positive impacts of tourism are related to money from tourists, job creation and strengthening of local culture. On the other hand, the emergence of negative aspects such as crime, increased drug use, congestion, prostitution, environmental impacts, among others, make the residents show a certain indifference in relation to tourism. Among the actions suggested for the impacts to be minimized and for tourism in the city to be improved: the importance of planning, the standardization of tourist activities and the need for unity between tourist actors and the local community stood out. Despite the awareness and positive perception of local tourism, the difficulty of implementing the suggested actions was evidenced, mainly due to the existence of conflicts of interest.