Developing a destination management model: Case of Cappadocia.

Abstract Destination management organizations (DMOs) increase cooperation and coordination among stakeholders and contribute to the competitiveness of the destination. The purpose of this study is to develop a destination management model for Cappadocia that could make Cappadocia's tourism more sustainable and competitive. By developing a procedure that could also be used for similar tourism destinations, it is also aimed to propose a study model. Interviews were conducted with stakeholders to identify the problems in Cappadocia's tourism and solutions for these problems were suggested. These interviews were content-analyzed. The main challenges are related to infrastructure, superstructure, accessibility, human resources, facilities, sustainability and environment, and image. A well-established DMO could help the destination to become more competitive while also improving sustainability and eliminating or minimizing current and potential problems. Cooperation and coordination are highlighted as the most important functions due to the presence of several institutions related to tourism management in Cappadocia. Highlights • This research analyzes Cappadocia's challenges and potential based on stakeholders' views and tourism theory and practice. • A destination development model is proposed in addition to some general recommendations for the destination. • The DMOs' roles are highlighted in the case of a destination with cultural and natural heritage. • It aims to contribute by examining Cappadocia and developing a procedure to analyze similar destinations or develop a DMO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]