Strengths, weaknesses and challenges of municipalities in North Cyprus aspiring to be a sustainable Cittaslow tourism destination

Purpose Local government has a significant role to play in securing sustainable destination development. This paper aims to identify the strengths, weaknesses and challenges of municipalities in North Cyprus as they aspire to become sustainable Cittaslow tourism destinations. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative research approach was used to observe the perceptions of municipalities as they transition to become sustainable Cittaslow tourism destinations. The data have been obtained through in-depth interviews with the mayors of the municipalities that are members of the international Cittaslow network. Findings The results of the study show how alternative forms of tourism could help to improve the local economy. Also, the reasons for challenges and weaknesses are explained by the limited economic conditions of countries, high demand for mass tourism and lack of awareness about the importance of being a Cittaslow member. Practical implications This study reflects on the critical points in relation to the destination’s management at the local level. It also provides empirical indicators for achieving sustainable tourism development in North Cyprus. Originality/value This study contributes to the tourism literature by addressing municipalities' roles in the sustainability of tourism destinations in developing countries, more specifically in North Cyprus. A review of the literature reveals that there are very few prior studies of the role of municipalities in sustainable Cittaslow tourism.