Ecotourism in Seafront Resorts for Future TOD Development in Small Island (Case Study: Gili Air, NTB)

Abstract

Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) has been thought to encourage tourism development in targeted areas. There are small islands that have many potentials as a tourism destination; however, they do not have TOD on their transportation system. In the future, TOD development may focus on tourism development that required eco-resort to prevent environmental issues. This study was conducted to compare two seafront resorts based on tourists' perceptions to encourage the architects to design more eco-resorts in Gili Air. Data on ecological contexts of cottages unit (CU), building position and circulation (PC), landscape elements (LE), and waste management (WM) were collected in situ through measurements and observations. Data on tourist perceptions were collected using a questionnaire with a Lickert scale (N1=53; N2=62). The results showed that the two resorts have a different quality in three indicators, i.e., Local character on building style, night lighting on the terrace, and attractiveness in building positioning. Besides, six crucial points should be considered for seafront resorts to achieve ecotourism goals at Gili Air. The seafront-resorts are expected to have an essential role in TOD and ecotourism development to what extent their significant presence can reduce their impacts on people and the environment.