Exploring educational tourists' perceptions of climate change on a small Mediterranean island: a qualitative analysis

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to understand how educational tourists in Northern Cyprus perceive and respond to the concerns associated with climate change.Design/methodology/approachA qualitative method was employed and the data gathered from educational tourists enrolled in tourism planning and sustainable tourism courses in Northern Cyprus and analyzed using the content analysis technique.FindingsFour major themes emerged in this study including “weather changes”, “human-induced causes”, “collective responsibility” and “waste management and recycling”.Originality/valueClimate change-related issues among educational tourists have received little attention in the literature. This study contributes to the body of knowledge by examining educational tourists' perspectives and reactions to climate change in Northern Cyprus.