Pengaruh Perkembangan Objek Pariwisata Terhadap Peningkatan Kesejahteraan Masyarakat di Kabupaten Samosir Provinsi Sumatera Utara

Abstract

This study aims to examine the impact of tourism development on the improvement of community welfare in Samosir Regency, North Sumatra Province, particularly in Pardomuan I Sub-district, Pangururan District. The background of the study stems from the rapid growth of the tourism sector in Samosir, as evidenced by the increasing number of tourist visits each year. This research employs a descriptive qualitative method, using data collection techniques such as observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation. The informants include key informants (local government officials), main informants (local community members), and additional informants (tourism business operators). The findings indicate that tourism development has had a positive effect on community welfare, especially in terms of increased income, household expenditure, access to education, and healthcare services. Butler's Destination Life Cycle Model (1980) is used to describe the stages of tourism development in the area, while Soetomo’s (2014) welfare indicators serve as a framework for measuring the impact. The study concludes that well-planned tourism development involving local communities can drive economic growth and enhance the quality of life for residents around tourist destinations.