In 2007 Els Roose wrote a thesis for obtaining the degree of “master in tourism” under the title above. For that dissertation, Els Roose did a study on the integration of second-residents in Oostduinkerke. The conclusion of that study was: “A second-resident distinguishes himself from tourists by the recurring relationship, which builds a familiarity with the environment and can create friendship between neighbours, local traders, inhabitants or other second residents”. Also: “Residents do not want to be considered as tourists but as part of daily life in the local community. After all, after a few years, they have built up a familiarity and bond through their frequent visits”. Finally: “As the months or years of discovery pass, linked to the frequency and intensity of visits, second-residents become familiar with the second residence. At this stage, they have already discovered a great deal in the municipality and have therefore built up a greater knowledge of the region than a tourist. They show a clear interest in the area and inform themselves. In the meantime, they have discovered permanent shops, restaurants and leisure facilities. They find there a certain stability, a second home. Not only can they be familiar with the municipality at this stage, but they can also be connected to it, even if they are not staying there permanently”.<\/p>\n