Creative Tourism Development: The Significance of Creative Destination Design in Strategies to Enhance Tourist Experiences

Abstract

Abstract: In the context of global urban competition, localities have continuously sought to enhance their attractiveness by attracting the creative class, developing creative industries, and striving to become “creative cities”. Creativity has become a core strategy in tourism development, in which creative placemaking plays a central role in attracting tourists. This article provides an in-depth analysis of how creativity is applied in destination design through diverse design strategies. Through case studies from Thailand, the Netherlands, Denmark, Brazil, and Germany, the research confirms that the success of this strategy depends on leveraging local characteristics and adhering to fundamental principles of creative design. The creative process also requires harmonious coordination between tangible and intangible resources, storytelling, and genuine community participation. Creative destination design demonstrates the dual role of creative tourism in enlivening heritage and bridging global flows with local spaces, which is key to preserving identity and promoting sustainable development.