Study of Indigenous Cluster Experiences to Make a Model for Expanding LocalNetwork in Gramer and Shibderaz Villages

Subject Areas : Geopolitic

Abdolreza  Faraji Rad ¹ (ندارد)
Afsaneh  Ehsani ² (مسئول مکاتبات)

Received: 2011-03-11 Accepted : 2011-05-05 Published : 2011-07-23

Keywords: Tourism, Nature based tourism, Ecotourism, Indigenous cluster, Garmeh, Shib Deraz,

Abstract :

This paper aims at studying the outcome and experience of Indigenous clusters indevelopment of local networks, with emphasis on Garmeh and Shib Deraz villages inIran. In the course of this research, both qualitative and quantitative techniques havebeen employed. 14 interviews were conducted with active members of the indigenouscluster. The data from interviews were used to qualitatively analyze the motivations offorming the Indigenous cluster; the strengths and weaknesses, problems of members,and viewpoints of local people of Grameh and Shibderaz villages were identified.Questionnaires were distributed to collate relevant data. Out of 200 questionnairesadministered, 159 were perfectly filled by eligible respondent. Researcher had traveledthree times to Garmeh village in Isfahan province and several times to Shib Derazvillage in Qeshm Island. Familiarity with these two villages and leveled interactionwith the Indigenous people increase accuracy of response from the questionnaires andinvolvement of participants.The result from both sides of the study indicates that local accommodation causesan improvement in the livelihood of local sect. The result also shows that politicalprocess and economic policies on ecotourism development in Iran needs a brace up.Effective policies should be promulgated to provide the real needs of ecotourism basedon the sustainable development. Also, government through constructive ideas canattract the participation of Indigenous investors to make suitable Infrastructure forecotourism development.