Online PhD conferral mr. Marck F.F. Oduber

Key words: tourism demand, Aruba, climate, ENSO, dengue, vegetation

"The Impact of Selected Natural Factors on Tourism Demand; The Case of a Small Island Destination"

In this study, the relationship between several natural factors and tourism demand for a small island destination as Aruba was investigated. In particular, this study examined the effects of climate, dengue, and vegetation on tourism demand and whether tourism demand impacts dengue or vegetation. In short, the main question was to find the connection between tourism demand for Aruba as a small island destination and natural factors, specifically climate, dengue, and vegetation.

Based on the study questions, the research revealed the following for Aruba. Tourism demand has a connection with vegetation density. Seasonal and cyclical variations in climate affect tourism demand. Dengue cases are influenced by tourism demand, specifically, cruise tourism. The climate studies also include well-known climate patterns such as ENSO (El Nino Southern Oscillation) and NAO (North Atlantic Oscillation). Furthermore, the infectious disease factor (dengue) is an interesting and actual phenomenon, considering the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

Click here for the full dissertation.

Click here for the live stream.