Ecotourism Development in Small Cities: Insights from Macao

ABSTRACT Small cities with fewer natural resources are relatively hesitant in developing ecotourism. However, ecotourism can be in any form anywhere, whenever all stakeholders involved in such businesses are ecologically, economically, and ethically responsible. This study therefore tries to identify challenges for small cities in developing ecotourism, by using the four criteria (i.e. ecotourism based in nature; learning opportunities; sustainably managed sites; and ethical and responsible activities). It also explains reasons discouraging small cities from ecotourism development based on the perspectives of involved stakeholders in nature-based tourism. Macao, with its small size, few natural resources, and the need to diversify tourism products to ease overcrowding issues in the urban touristic areas, was chosen as a case study to fill this research gap. The detailed evaluation of each criterion on ecotourism development and management presented a clear view of what has been done and not done properly in the city. This finding offers potential solutions for different public and nonpublic sectors who are attempting to embrace ecotourism.