Thematic Tourism Market as an Urban Tourism Attraction: Manado City Discourse

Abstract

Manado City, the capital of North Sulawesi, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and the hospitality of its people. However, in recent years, the growth of the tourism sector in Manado has begun to slow down. One factor that contributes to this is the lack of tourist attractions that are interesting and relatively unique. Thematic marketing tourism, the first pilot project in Indonesia, can be a solution to increasing tourist attraction in Manado. This research aims to analyze the potential of the tourism thematic market as an urban tourist attraction in Manado City. This research uses qualitative research methods with a descriptive approach. Data collection techniques in this research with literature review and field observations. The data that has been collected is then analyzed in three stages, namely data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion. The research results show that thematic markets can be a compelling urban tourist attraction that increases tourist visits to Manado City. Efforts must be made to integrate and sustain thematic markets to maximize their potential as urban tourist attractions. Local governments must actively facilitate funds and bureaucracy, carry out marketing promotions, and empower the market communities to ensure the sustainability and development of the Bunaken Thematic Market (PTB).