The Effects of Rural Tourism on Sustainable Livelihoods (Case Study: Lavij Rural, Iran)

Abstract

Using a quantitative methodology and questionnaire, this study sought to evaluate the impacts of tourism on sustainable livelihoods of local people of Lavij rural in Iran. Data collected from 230 local residents of the study area were analyzed using Pearson’s correlation and linear regression. The results show that rural tourism has been able to play an effective role in sustainable livelihoods of people and there is a significant relationship between the development of rural tourism and sustainable livelihoods in Lavij. Rural tourism can predict a high percentage of changes in people’s livelihoods sustainability. Therefore, with a proper planning, rural tourism can be used to development of sustainable livelihoods, quality of people's lives, job opportunities and poverty reduction.