Final answer:
Islands typically lack resources and sufficient access to markets, which leads to economic hardships. They have tried to overcome these issues by investing in the tourism sector, although high transportation costs and funding challenges can be prohibitive.
Step-by-step explanation:
Islands often lack resources and access to larger markets, leading to economic challenges. Historically, islands maintained self-sufficiency through fishing and agriculture, but overfishing and increased population have strained these traditional methods. Modern technologies and global trade have shifted islands' economies from isolated self-sufficiency to dependency on core economic areas. To combat these issues, islands have turned to the tourism industry to bolster their economies.
Investment in infrastructure such as airports and hotels is crucial to attract tourists. However, the high costs of transportation due to long distances and remote locations can be prohibitive. Without sufficient funding, the development necessary to foster a thriving tourism sector may not be feasible for every island. Melanesia is an example of an island region investing in tourism to overcome economic limitations.