The Characteristics of Small Island Tourist Economies

Abstract

This study presents a review of the literature and develops three related empirical analyses to determine the characteristics of small island tourist economies (SITEs). With a sample of 39 small islands, the first means difference analysis contrasts patterns in the Caribbean versus Pacific and Indian Ocean islands. The second, a Tourism Penetration Index, identifies the most successful SITEs along Butler's life cycle. The third is a regression analysis used to explain the uneven spread of island tourism across the globe. Results suggest the importance of adequate infrastructure, a degree of modernization, favorable location, uncrowded ambience and dependent political status in SITE success. However, only the last three are statistically significant influences.