Developing Sport Tourism in the "Golden Tourism Triangle” in Jordan: Current Situation and Future Development Prospects
Khalid M.A. Magablih, Department of Tourism, Yarmouk University, Irbid, Jordan.
Abstract
This study sought to investigate the existing status of sport tourism in the "Golden Tourism Triangle" in Jordan, and how to develop it from the point of view of tourists willing to practice sport activities. A purposive study sample of 160 sport tourists in the research area were selected to answer the questionnaire as a main study tool.
The study showed that tourists appreciate the attractiveness and safety of the destination as well as the availability of facilities and services needed by tourists. Tourists placed the availability of tourism services of prime importance, followed by the quality and cost of tourism services. It also revealed the weakness of coordination among the organizations and institutions responsible for sport tourism development and marketing.
The study suggested the necessity of formulating a clear policy for developing and marketing sport tourism in coordination with the concerned institutions and activities. In addition, the study proposed emphasizing the importance of the attractiveness and safety of Jordan as a tourist destination, the need for formulating and implementing effective marketing strategies for sport tourism in targeted markets, and encouraging the private sector to support and sponsor sport activities.