Resort Desain di Lau Debuk-Debuk Dengan Pendekatan Kultur dan Religi

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine how cultural and religious values influence visitor preferences in the design of gender-segregated hot spring facilities in Lau Debuk-Debuk, a well-known geothermal tourism area located in Karo Regency, North Sumatra. Despite its popularity among local and international tourists, current hot spring facilities in the region have yet to fully accommodate the cultural norms and religious practices of its diverse visitors, particularly concerning gender separation in bathing areas. This gap raises the need for a deeper understanding of how cultural expectations and religious obligations shape spatial preferences. The results indicate that both cultural values and religious beliefs significantly affect visitor expectations, particularly regarding the need for gender-segregated spaces. These findings highlight the importance of culturally responsive and Sharia-compliant design strategies in hot spring resort development. Integrating such considerations not only enhances visitor comfort and satisfaction but also supports the broader goal of inclusive and respectful tourism infrastructure that aligns with the values of its target users.