THE DEVELOPMENT OF SUSTAINABLE TOURISM INDICATORS FOR THE ISLANDS OF THE NORTHERN SPORADES REGION IN GREECE

Tourism in Greece is one of the main economic inflows of the country. Moreover, within the recent period of economic crisis, tourism development should be considered and planned with great attention in order to achieve the best possible outcomes. The main aim of this paper is to identify and implement an appropriate set of tourism indicators for the Regional Unit of the Northern Sporades, in order to upgrade the tourism development. An appropriate set of indicators, which reflects the three pillars of sustainable development, is created and is further divided into various thematic issues. The value of each indicator is measured and evaluated, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the Sporades islands. Based on the proposed set of indicators and the analysis of the islands, appropriate suggestions are provided for the amelioration of infrastructures of the study area and the availability of necessary services in the tourism sector.