Journal of Tourism & Hospitality
Open Access

Abstract

Evaluation of Impact of Tourism on the Quality of Life of the Host Community Resident in Idanre, Ondo State Nigeria

Moyosola Agboola*, Rafiat Omolara Olowo and Oyinkansola Christiana Kevin-Israel

It has been observed that tourism enhances the growth of the economics of developing nations because the industry relies on natural and cultural resources to attract tourists. Tourism can facilitate the development of infrastructure to tourist destinations located in rural areas, which lack amenities, thereby enhancing the quality of life of the community and its residents. Previous studies across the world have highlighted the relationship between tourism, community development and resident satisfaction. In Nigeria, this relationship has not been widely investigated as a subject of tourism research. Therefore, the study investigates the tourism impact on the quality of life of the host community in Idanre. The study employed the use of case study research design using qualitative (interview) and quantitative (questionnaire) methods. The population of the study comprises the residents of Idanre. 200 respondents were selected through simple random sampling techniques while the collected data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical tools. The results are presented in table, chart, figure and plate. The findings reveal that cultural festivals celebrated at Idanre hill and the attraction site have positive impact on the socio-cultural and spiritual benefit (such as contributing to cultural preservation and boosting the morale of the community) which influence the quality of life of the community resident positively. Also community residents have a positive perception towards economic and environmental impacts of tourism on their living conditions (such as health status, social lifestyle and environmental condition). The hypothesis test shows that a significant relationship exist between perception of resident towards impact of tourism and the resident age distribution and involvement in tourism. In conclusion there is a significant relationship between perception of community residents about tourism impact and their age distribution and involvement in tourism business and activities which is validated by social exchange theory.

Published Date: 2021-05-31; Received Date: 2021-05-10