Determinant Competitiveness Attributes of Brazilian Sun and Sand Destinations

Abstract Destination competitiveness models reached a development level in which all the characteristics that somehow influence competitiveness were mapped, albeit without identifying which factors are decisive for competitiveness (Crouch, 2011). We used the Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) technique, adopting the domestic and international tourist inflows as criteria variables for identifying which competitiveness dimensions are decisive for Brazilian sun and sand destinations. Our results suggest that Access, Cultural Aspects, Local Economy, and Business Capacity dimensions have a greater influence on destination performance. In addition, the results indicate that it is not necessary to have a high level of development in many dimensions to achieve higher performance. Results provide practical guidance for sun and sand destination management.