Local communities and tourism development

The Department of Sociology, University of Crete in collaboration with the Environmental Association of Rethymno, the Architects of the city and the Cultural Association of Rethymno, organize a panel discussion on “Local communities and tourism development”. The event will be held on Wednesday at 7 pm, at the cultural center Xenia.
During this event will be highlight Nelly's Psarrou film «Golfland?» followed by a discussion of the author, Professor of Sociology Mary Koussi and Michael Nikolakaki, doctoral candidate in Sociology

According to the press release of the event, the film addresses the issue of golf tourism developments in Greece.

The discussion will examine the efforts of Greek travel industry to upgrade tourism, through various investments such as golf courses with hotels and holiday homes, the reactions of local communities and environmental organizations, and the point of view of the scientists and the intentions of the government.

The creators of the documentary traveled in five different areas of Greece, in order to highlight various efforts to create a golf resorts in Greece. These areas are: Atalanta (pending approval of the investment), Volos (local organizations seem to freeze the project), Chalkidiki (local authorities appealed to the State Council in order to stop it), Hersonissos, Crete (built a golf course without further settlements, as it is usually desired), Pylos (the first such large investment is being implemented in Greece).

Many environmental organizations, scientists, investors or their representatives, and politicians have being asked for the credibility of their arguments.

This documentary is a result of investigation of the author and former university professor Nelly Psarrou, together with her colleagues who voluntarily contributed to offer independent information for the local communities.