Destination Competitiveness, Culture and Heritage Tourism, and Regional Clusters

In recent decades, research on cultural identity, state dynamics, and destination competitiveness has gained significant importance in the field of Cultural and Heritage Tourism. Specifically, in Macedonia, a region shared between two states—North Macedonia and Greece—tourism development occurs within a unique political and economic context. Does dissonant heritage hinder or promote destination development? This chapter aims to assess the destination competitiveness of Culture and (dissonant) Heritage tourism, focusing on the development of regional clusters. Perspectives from various stakeholders—academics, state officials, and tourism strategy developers—are essential. Bridging the gap in service provision and policy-making processes within this demand-led industry requires a shared doctrine. Notably, this introduces an additional perspective to the existing Competitiveness theory. While Culture and Heritage are recognized as core attractors, the dissonant aspect remains unexplored. Balkan states offer opportunities for further research in culture and heritage clusters.