Reflecting Cultural Ecotourism in Banyuwangi, Indonesia

Abstract

The development of cultural ecotourism became the mainstay of Head of Culture and Tourism of Banyuwangi Regency (HCTBR). The district had awarded by the UNWTO. It considered successful in driving tourism. This regency runs four key tourism strategies. One of the four strategies offers adventure and experience different cultural tours and sightseeing activities. This mixed qualitative and quantitative mixed mode study found many cultural potentials that have not yet been empowered. This indicates that HCTBR is not optimal in managing the cultural potential. The results of observations illustrate that the handling of cultural ecotourism has not been in line with the expectations of tourists. Interpretation becomes the most important issue in developing the potential for art and culture ecotourism. In addition, the potential for culinary ecotourism had developed to support the regional economy that creates sustainable livelihoods.