Problems of Outdoor Recreation: The Effect of Visitors’ Demographics on the Perceptions of Termessos National Park, Turkey |
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Authors: | Selcuk Sayan Osman Karagüzel |
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Institution: | 1. Akdeniz üniversitesi, Ziraat Fakültesi, Peyzaj Mimarl??? B?lümü, Antalya, 07070, Turkey
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Abstract: | Visitor demographics, perceptions and their relationships are investigated to determine the problems and issues for outdoor
recreation, which has been a neglected part of the Turkish national park system, using the case of Termessos National Park,
located in the south of Turkey. The park is attractive for both its historical and natural resources. Five demographic characteristics
(gender, age, nationality, education level and income level) were used to test perceptions of the park resources, preference
for number of groups and perception of crowding. The data was collected via a questionnaire survey administered on-site. Chi-square
tests demonstrated that perceptions are significantly influenced by the nationality of respondents. Archaeological ruins were
perceived as the most popular park resource, and were more appreciated by the older age groups, French visitors and those
with higher education. Although the park was not perceived to be crowded, at least 25% of all age groups and 30% of all nationalities
preferred not to encounter any other groups, whereas a significant majority of Turkish visitors (over 95%) did not mind having
one or two groups present during their visit. Visitors with higher education and income levels preferred to encounter fewer
groups. At least 60% of the visitors were comfortable with the actual condition of the park. The trails, signage and brochures
were considered major problems. As an integrated part of the ruins, redesign of trails was perceived as necessary. Signage
was perceived to be the second most important problem, which is also related to trails and orientation, whereas brochures
were suggested as supplementary materials. |
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