EL DESARROLLO TURÍSTICO DE LA REGIÓN DE AGUAS TERMALES DE GOIÁS, BRASIL

Abstract

     The main aim of this article is to analyse spa tourism in the Caldas Novas and Rio Quente region of the state of Goiás, Brasil, where the key motivation and demand focus on the enjoyment of the thermal spring water, although, in reality, the structure and characteristics of the sector have much in common with massified three S tourism. The first part traces the evolution of tourism in the destination, setting the typology in the context of Fordist and Post-fordist trends. This is followed by an analysis of urban development and population growth, which are closely linked to the expansion of the tourist sector, and have given rise to considerable environmental impacts. Finally, future perspectives for the destination are examined. Attention is drawn to the need to diversify the product base, and various options are proposed: to reorient it to incorporate therapeutical treatments, health and «well-being» tourism; to create a complementary leisure offer; and to integrate natural protected areas in an «ecologica» thermal product. The article concludes with a call for structured planning and cohesive and efficient management in the implementation of the measures proposed with reasonable guarantees of success.