Sustainable Tourism: The Case of the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area

Tourist preferences for sustainable tourism products vary according to their demographic and socioeconomic characteristics. Results from a large sample in the Blue Ridge National Heritage Area found preference differences based on gender, age, education level, and income, as well as whether the tourist was a day-tripper or overnight visitor. The study found that the bulk of visitors originate in the southeastern United States, suggesting that promotions for the Blue Ridge area should be directed to those living in North Carolina and vicinity. Results from research such as this can assist sustainable tourism organizations to target promotions of various tourism activities to those who would be most interested.