The Importance of International Volunteering for the Tourist Destination Image: Case Study in Barcelos (Portugal)

Ricardo Pacheco Coutinho (), Bruno Barbosa Sousa () and Vasco Ribeiro Santos
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Ricardo Pacheco Coutinho: School of Hospitality and Tourism (ESHT), IPCA-Polytechnic University of Cávado and Ave, 4750-810 Barcelos, Portugal
Bruno Barbosa Sousa: School of Hospitality and Tourism (ESHT), IPCA-Polytechnic University of Cávado and Ave, 4750-810 Barcelos, Portugal
Vasco Ribeiro Santos: CiTUR—Centre for Tourism Research, Development and Innovation, Polytechnic of Leiria, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal

Administrative Sciences, 2024, vol. 14, issue 8, 1-24

Abstract: This research investigates the significant role of international volunteering, particularly through the European Solidarity Corps (ESC), in shaping the image of Barcelos as a tourist destination. The study specifically examines various volunteer programs in Barcelos, such as construction projects, teaching, and agricultural assistance. It focuses on the volunteers’ perceptions and motivations and on the impact of their experiences on the city’s touristic recognition. Using a mixed-methods approach, this research analyzes responses from electronic surveys with 92 former ESC volunteers and interviews with four local organizations that host these participants. The findings reveal that international volunteering through specific programs enhances Barcelos’ image as a welcoming, culturally rich, and civically engaged tourist destination. This research highlights the importance of integrating such initiatives into the city’s tourism management strategy, suggesting that such efforts can significantly enrich the tourist experience and the overall image of the destination. Furthermore, the study identifies areas for future research, including the need for a more in-depth analysis of the long-term impact of these volunteering activities on the local economy and cultural sustainability. The limitations of the study, such as the use of a convenience sample and the reliance on self-reported data, which may influence the results and their generalizability, are also discussed. In conclusion, this work provides valuable insights for tourism managers and policymakers, demonstrating how international volunteering can be a strategic component in enhancing the image of tourist destinations. Through careful and strategic management, Barcelos can continue to develop and promote its identity as a destination for solidarity tourism and cultural vibrancy.

Keywords: international volunteering; European Solidarity Corps (ESC); tourist destination image Barcelos; solidarity tourism (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: L M M0 M1 M10 M11 M12 M14 M15 M16 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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