Introduction: how could the Republic of Cyprus reduce the impact of seasonal tourism on long-term sustainable development?

ABSTRACT

Purpose>This paper provides an overview and explains the context of the theme issue. The paper outlines the approach and profiles the articles written in response to the strategic question as to how the Republic of Cyprus could reduce the impact of seasonal tourism on long-term sustainable development.Design/methodology/approach>The paper outlines the approach to exploring ways of reducing the impact of seasonal tourism on long-term sustainable development in Cyprus. The strategic question is tackled in articles containing literature reviews, data and evidence reviews, interactions with practitioners and practical solutions.Findings>The findings of the theme issue focus on long-term sustainable development and the alleviation of seasonality in Cyprus. The issue provides insights into the history, current state of development and progress made by the impact of seasonal tourism and sustainable development on the tourism and hospitality industry.Originality/value>This theme issue outlines the causes and effects of seasonality in the tourism industry in a small island developing state (SIDS) that is highly dependent on income generated by tourism activity. In SIDS, where seasonality is a threatening factor for tourism development, it is essential to understand what measures can be taken to lower seasonality. The articles in this theme issue provide insights into the causes and effects of tourism seasonality, climate change, alternative and special interest tourism, future destinations and young travellers' behaviour, air transportation, the remedy to seasonality and gastro tourism.