Exploración de la configuración espacial del barrio La Merced de Cuenca, Ecuador con relación a los servicios de hospitalidad, periodo 2019- 2022

Abstract

The present study analyzes the spatial configuration in the La Merced neighborhood of the city of Cuenca, Ecuador; spatial configuration is the change that a certain place undergoes, that is, the use that is given to it today and that is different from how it was used long ago. Therefore, the objective of the study is to explore the spatial configuration of the neighborhood in relation to establishments linked to hospitality such as: accommodation, food, beverages and entertainment, for the analysis the period 2019 - 2022 has been considered. A longitudinal research is carried out with a mixed approach, through semi-structured interviews at convenience to inhabitants of the neighborhood and owners or managers of establishments linked to hospitality, in addition to a quantitative analysis that shows the evolution of the establishments of the neighborhood La Merced and shows changes in some aspects in the aforementioned period, This has been determined by analyzing the interviews conducted with the inhabitants of the neighborhood, as well as processing the information collected. As a predominant factor, the inhabitants of the neighborhood state that this evolution has been due to the influx of establishments related to hospitality, making it a place not suitable for residence. But there is the other side, the perception of the owners or managers of premises, who affirm that the evolution gives a unique touch to the neighborhood for its variety and that not all establishments affect the traditional image of La Merced. Keywords: spatial configuration, La Merced neighborhood, hospitality