Authenticity Phenomenon in Rural Tourism: The Case of Çamlık Village, Bodrum

Abstract

The purpose of the present study is to investigate authenticity phenomenon in rural tourism movements based on assessments of local community. Çamlık Village, Bodrum County in Muğla City is determined as study location according to the suggestion of Rural Tourism Association. Whereas the study was conducted through a qualitative research, the relevant data was collected by means of semi-structured interview method. As respondents were randomly selected among local community of Çamlık Village, interviews were conducted on voluntary basis. According to the obtained findings, local community is aware of authenticity phenomenon in rural tourism movements in their region. Respondents enumerate reasons for visitors to travel their region as visiting carpet weaving houses, village-style breakfast, natural life style, and local foods. Local foods are considered as the most prominent element among the culture heritage interested in. Cultural outcomes of interaction between tourists and local community are positive. Acquired results make significant contribution in literature and in planning studies of local administration toward future