Examining Local Residents’ Awareness of Tourism: The Case of Bingöl Province, Türkiye

The awareness and participation of local communities play a critical role in the sustainable development of tourism. This study aims to examine, in depth and systematically, the levels of awareness among the local population regarding the natural, cultural, and gastronomic assets of Bingöl Province. The study includes structured questions, photo-based applications, word cloud analysis, and an interactive puzzle technique (word search puzzle) to measure participants’ levels of recognition and awareness of touristic values. The data were collected through face-to-face structured interviews conducted with 25 participants. The findings reveal that while participants exhibited high levels of awareness regarding well-known values such as the Floating Islands, Natural Monument, Haserek Ski Center, Bingöl Honey, Kös Thermal Springs, and the 33 Martyrs’ Monument, their awareness was comparatively limited for lesser known or newly registered values. The correct identification rates of the photographs indicate which local assets are more familiar to the public and which require further promotion efforts. The puzzle technique used within the study enabled participants to learn about touristic and cultural assets in a more effective, interactive, and engaging manner, thereby enhancing their visual and cognitive awareness. Overall, the use of visual materials and interactive methods in the promotion of Bingöl’s touristic and cultural assets is expected to increase public awareness and contribute to the preservation of local cultural heritage. This approach also provides valuable insights for the development of regional tourism strategies and sustainable tourism planning.