Tourism, Poverty, and Subjective Well-being: Bridging the Urban-Rural Divide in Colombia

This study examines the effects of tourism development on the well-being of impoverished residents in both urban (La Candelaria, Bogotá) and rural (La Macarena, Meta) regions of Colombia. Using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM), the findings reveal that personal economic benefits from tourism are the most vital factor in enhancing residents' happiness and life satisfaction. The analysis outlines a pathway from economic gain to happiness, improving life satisfaction. Additionally, the study highlights tourism's role in exacerbating the urban-rural divide, offering insights into migration trends and regional inequality. Practical recommendations are provided for policymakers to ensure balanced tourism development across regions.