From Bars to Paradise: The Origin of Tourism in Fernando de Noronha

Introduction: Understanding the historical evolution of tourist destinations can help generate evidence capable of formulating differentiated strategies, seeking a destination that encompasses more sustainable social and economic alternatives. Objectives: The objective of this study is to historically recover the origin and evolution of tourism in Fernando de Noronha, through bibliographic research highlighting the main factors driving the island's tourism activity. Theoretical Framework: The research traces the history of the destination's discovery associated with the evolution of the tourism sector, the island's main economic sector. Authors such as Diegues (1997) and Ruschmann (2001) are cited to contextualize the complex relationship between tourism, the environment, and island communities. Method: To this end, the methodology adopted for this research involves a documentary and bibliographic survey, including analysis of materials belonging to the Island's Administration that document its history. Results and Discussion: The results revealed that the historical analysis of tourism on the island evolved from a scenario characterized by military occupation to a tourist destination focused on environmental conservation. In this context, the creation of the National Marine Park and the Environmental Protection Area were essential for redirecting sustainable public policies. Research Implications: The research highlights the importance of understanding local history in developing and improving public policies related to the environment, society, and economy of the region. Originality/Value: The connection between past and present, resulting from this analysis, supports decision-making, aiming at the well-being of all stakeholders. Thus, history is considered to improve the future of tourism.