Internal Assessment of the Tourist Offer Development Level Based on its Resources, Attractions and Tourist Products

Abstract

This study evaluates the degree of development of tourism offer [TO], according to the perception of the main stakeholders of the tourist destination [TD]. The theoretical lens on destination management, focused on the operation and process management, dedicated to the discussion on the concepts of 'resources' [TR], 'attractiveness' [TA] and 'tourism products' [TP] and the process of converting TR into TA and TP. Methodologically, the study carried out in Juiz de Fora-MG, Brazil, was divided into three phases: (1) a survey, with secondary data, in which were identified 110 items, potentially the most exploited by tourism in the city; (2) these were submitted to a delphi technique, being consolidated 34 items, gathered into the following dimensions: environment, culture, gastronomy, entertainment and leisure; which, in turn, (3) were ordered in a new online survey to local stakeholders. It has been observed that the onscreen TO is characterized as TR, is perceived as low attractiveness, limited to local and regional scale and is not perceived as monetarily rewarding by the intervieweds. This scenario helps to explain the current stage of maturity of local tourism development.