A Meta-Synthesis Study on the Relationship Between Overtourism and the Happiness Economy

English (OpenAlex)

Overtourism can lead to problems such as the depletion of natural resources, erosion of cultural values, an increase in living costs, and a decrease in the local quality of life in a destination. The happiness economy is an approach that emphasizes changes in individuals' quality of life and personal happiness while ensuring economic growth. In this context, focusing on the relationship between overtourism and happiness economy can shed light on the connection between the economic effects of tourism and individual happiness. The subject of this research is the evaluation of the relationship between over-tourism and happiness economy with the meta-synthesis method. The research method was determined to be meta-synthesis, a qualitative analysis technique. Within the scope of the research, 10 studies were selected according to specific criteria and examined to evaluate the relationship between overtourism and the happiness economy, based on its three fundamental components: subjective well-being, quality of life, and life satisfaction. As a result, while over tourism provides economic gains in the short term, it can negatively affect elements of the happiness economy, such as subjective well-being, quality of life, and life satisfaction, in the long term. In terms of the happiness economy, sustainable tourism practices and visitor number management strategies are necessary to increase the happiness and quality of life of both tourists and residents. Balancing the economic benefits of tourism with its social, environmental, economic, and cultural dimensions is a common focal point of both concepts.