DEVELOPING A CRISIS MANAGEMENT POLICY FOR TOURISM DISASTERS

Abstract

Any destination is exposed to adverse events which can produce a crisis because of their severity or unpredictability. In these situations, preparation is a key factor due to the lack of control and the need to respond quickly. This paper identifies the characteristics that crisis management in tourism should have -holistic, strategic and proactive- and discusses three main models of crisis management that are grouped together in an integrated model. It is a priority of the public administration to manage disaster and provide necessary assistance to the private sector. A six-step map is proposed aimed at developing a crisis management policy that is consistent with the structure of strategic models proposed in recent years. Regional tourism organizations are appropriate entities to carry it out.