Defining and protecting cultural and heritage tourism authenticity in rural Nova Scotia

This research involved the collection and evaluation of survey data which was used to identify and consider "authentic" cultural tourism resources in a sample of rural Nova Scotia communities. As part of the research, a database of "place images" from communities with distinct cultural groups and levels of tourism activity were collected. This database was used as a tolls to identify local perceptions of cultural authenticity and potential community resources not fully developed for cultural tourism use. With this information, a number of actions are proposed for municipal and provincial planners in order to further preserve community heritage for the benefit of the community and the tourist.; The database was created using a mail survey of community groups and tourism businesses; personal interviews with municipal officials and members of the communities surveyed; and literature searches on local history.; The findings of the research conclude that more local community participation is needed in identifying authentic place images of the surveyed communities. A combination of changes to planning legislation and greater levels of community involvement in the planning process are suggested as possible actions to enhance future cultural tourism potential.