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  <br />   <br />   <br />   <br />3 <br />1: Introduction <br /> <br />Geotourism <br /> <br />Geotourism, as defined by the National Geographic Center for <br />Sustainable Destinations, sustains or enhances the geographical <br />character of a place—its environment, culture, aesthetics, heritage, <br />and the wellbeing of its residents. <br /> <br />§ Geotourism adds to sustainability principles - by building on <br />a destination's geographical character, its "sense of place," to <br />emphasize the distinctiveness of its locale and benefit visitor and <br />resident alike. <br />§ Geotourism is synergistic - all the elements of geographical <br />character work together to create a tourist experience that is richer <br />than the sum of its parts, appealing to visitors with diverse <br />interests. <br />§ Geotourism involves the community - including local <br />businesses and civic groups to provide a distinctive, authentic <br />visitor experience. <br />§ Geotourism informs both visitors and hosts - whereby <br />residents discover their own heritage by learning that things they <br />take for granted may be interesting to outsiders and whereby local <br />residents develop pride and skill in showing off their locale, <br />tourists get more out of their visit. <br />§ Geotourism benefits residents economically - where travel <br />businesses hire local workers, and use local services, products, and <br />supplies. When community members understand the benefits of <br />geotourism, they take responsibility for destination stewardship. <br />§ Geotourism supports integrity of place - where destination- <br />savvy travelers seek out businesses that emphasize the character of <br />the locale, and in return, local stakeholders who receive economic <br />benefits appreciate and protect the value of those assets. <br />§ Geotourism means great trips - where enthusiastic visitors <br />bring home new knowledge and stories encouraging friends and <br />relatives to experience the same thing, which brings continuing <br />business for the destination. <br /> <br />This Kittitas County tourism infrastructure plan is based on a <br />geotourism definition and approach. <br /> <br />Purpose/organization of this geotourism plan <br /> <br />The amount of lodging tax revenue being generated in Kittitas <br />County has increased significantly in recent years due to the <br />development of additional lodging facilities and tourist attractions.