Tourism and Rural Space. TARS Journal
Tourism and Rural Space.TARS Journal
Contributor(s): Georgia-Daniela Tacu Hârșan (Editor), Alina-Petronela Haller (Editor), Danut Ungureanu (Editor)
Subject(s): Social Sciences, Economy, Tourism
ISSN: 2971-9151
Published by: Academia Română, Filiala Iași Institutul de Cercetări Economice și Sociale „Gheorghe Zane”
Keywords: economics; tourism;
rural Space; growth; development
Summary/Abstract: This volume is a selection of articles presented at the 24th International Conference on Tourism and Rural Space in National and International Context – TARS held online on May 27, 2022.TARS is the new denomination of the 1998-2020 International Conference on Romanian Rural Tourism in International Context: Present and Prospects – RoRuT. The title of the volume series, Romanian Rural Tourism in International Context: Present and Prospects, has changed starting with Volume 48.
Series: Turism si Spațiu Rural
- Page Count: 247
- Publication Year: 2022
- Language: English
Harnessing in Gastronomy of Mountain Products by Fruiting the Umami Taste
Harnessing in Gastronomy of Mountain Products by Fruiting the Umami Taste
(Harnessing in Gastronomy of Mountain Products by Fruiting the Umami Taste)
- Author(s):Manuela Apetrei
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences, Economy, Methodology and research technology, Tourism
- Page Range:7-20
- No. of Pages:14
- Keywords:Umami taste; Mountain product; Gastronomy; Gastronomic tourism;
- Summary/Abstract:Taste is one of the five main senses and is connected to the sensations that result from the food and drink we eat. Known as the fifth taste, umami is one of the most present in the dishes we are eating daily. According to officials at the Umami Information Center (UIC), umami refers to the taste of glutamate, inosinate or guanilate. But beware: when it comes to umami and the “delicious” taste of glutamate, it's about that glutamate that we found naturally in foods such as seaweed, soy, ripened cheese, green tea, seafood, tomatoes, mushrooms, potatoes, etc. Umami taste is a sensory biomarker of food proteins. The degree of multiplication of the umami taste can increase up to eight times for the total taste of the ingredients taken separately. The harmonious combination of different foods containing umami allows the creation of a high level gastronomic experience, without the support of very sophisticated recipes. Owners of food establishments that use raw materials from the mountain area can successfully use this information to combine foods, so that they become even tastier and more attractive to consumers (use of grated emmentaler for gratin dishes, dried tomatoes in various sauces, berries in various desserts, etc.).
SWOT Analysis as a Basis for Strategies Designed for the Management of Tourism Development in Ukraine
SWOT Analysis as a Basis for Strategies Designed for the Management of Tourism Development in Ukraine
(SWOT Analysis as a Basis for Strategies Designed for the Management of Tourism Development in Ukraine)
- Author(s):Konon L. Bagrii
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences, Economy, Business Economy / Management, Methodology and research technology, Tourism
- Page Range:21-36
- No. of Pages:16
- Keywords:SWOT analysis; Tourism; Management; Benefits Factors of influence; Development;
- Summary/Abstract:In the current conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic, the tourism industry of Ukraine needs more than ever strategic development and the development of a universal scheme of strategic management of tourism development. Prospects for the use of SWOT analysis as an effective management tool will contribute to the implementation in accordance with the selected priorities of regulation and management of tourism development. The study considers the theoretical foundations of using SWOT analysis as one of the tools of strategic analysis. Based on the results of strategic analysis, priorities for tourism development are developed, as well as strategies for counteracting negative factors. Peculiarities and significance of SWOT analysis as a tool for tourism development management in Ukraine in the conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic have been studied. In accordance with the selected priorities, modern management concepts for the development of the industry are being implemented. Its main advantages and disadvantages for optimizing the management of tourism and recreation are noted. Factors influencing the development of the tourism industry of Ukraine and Romania based on the use of SWOT analysis are summarized. In the current conditions of the COVID-19 pandemic, special attention should be paid to the development of management tools in tourism. One of such effective tools is SWOT analysis, the results of which are the basis for determining the strategic directions of development of the tourism industry and optimizing the management of tourism and recreation.
Bibliometric Analysis of Studies Published on Alternative Tourism in Tourism Literature
Bibliometric Analysis of Studies Published on Alternative Tourism in Tourism Literature
(Bibliometric Analysis of Studies Published on Alternative Tourism in Tourism Literature)
- Author(s):Elif Bak Ates
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences, Economy, Electronic information storage and retrieval, Methodology and research technology, Tourism
- Page Range:37-46
- No. of Pages:10
- Keywords:Alternative tourism; Bibliometric analysis; Google Scholar;
- Summary/Abstract:The ever-growing and changing tourism sector offers alternative touristic products and promove. In parallel with the developments in the world, besides coastal tourism shaped by the sea-sand-sun trio, many alternative tourism types are coming out in Turkey. In the study, it is aimed to examine the bibliometric profiles of the articles titled “alternative tourism” within the framework of the determined parameters. In this context, the articles published between 2000-2022 were derived from the Google Scholar database. 42 articles accessed as a result of the searches lay with different variables with frequency analysis and graphics. The articles were examined on the basis of criteria such as the year they were published, the journal they were published in, the research method and research variables. As a result of this evaluation, it was seen that the most articles on alternative tourism were published in 2008. It has been determined that the research variables are mostly alternative tourism potential and centers. Theoretical studies are relatively more numerous than empirical studies. In terms of the findings, it is thought that the study will provide an important and comprehensive resource that researchers can benefit from. Other findings of the study show that the number of studies on alternative tourism has increased in recent years.
The Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Romanian Tourist Sector
The Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Romanian Tourist Sector
(The Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Romanian Tourist Sector)
- Author(s):Cristina Ioana Balint
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences, Economy, Business Economy / Management, Sociology, Methodology and research technology, Health and medicine and law, Tourism
- Page Range:47-59
- No. of Pages:13
- Keywords:COVID-19 pandemic; Impact Tourism Romania; Tourist arrivals; Accommodation establishments;
- Summary/Abstract:Tourism is considered one of the most important economic sectors, due to its multiple roles, namely: economic, social, cultural, educational and political role. The tourism also is considered to be one of the most important sectors for supporting and developing a country’s economic through the fact that people have traveled for a long period of time and still continue to do it also nowadays more often. The COVID-19 pandemic has caused several global damages and has spread rapidly, affecting all the sectors, and especially the tourism one. The development of this sector is closely linked to the ability of people to travel, which is why the restrictions imposed by the authorities for stopping the virus to spread, have reduced seriously the evolution of the tourism. The purpose of this paper is to reflect the effects of the pandemic on the Romanian tourism, and, at the same time, to highlight the relevance and the sensibility of this sector crisis events. This article analyzes the situation of the tourism in Romania, both in the pre-pandemic period and during it, following the number of international arrivals and the tourism receipts, but also the evolution of the establishments of tourist reception with accommodation functions. The data provided by the World Tourism Organization (UNTWO), World Health Organization (WHO), the World Bank and the National Institute of Statistics (INS) were used in order to observe the impact of the pandemic on the Romanian tourism, and the research was based on the analysis and interpretation of the obtained data. As a conclusion, in the end, the effects of the pandemic and the impact that the possible crisis situations have on the Romanian touristic sector can be observed.
Potential of Using Natural Resources of Manisa (Turkey) in Adventure Tourism
Potential of Using Natural Resources of Manisa (Turkey) in Adventure Tourism
(Potential of Using Natural Resources of Manisa (Turkey) in Adventure Tourism)
- Author(s):Fusun Baykal, Ferdi Akbas
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences, Economy, Sociology, Methodology and research technology, Tourism
- Page Range:60-82
- No. of Pages:23
- Keywords:Adventure tourism; Manisa; Natural attractions; Potential Activities; Holistic approach;
- Summary/Abstract:The subject and purpose of this paper is to analyze the natural attractions of the province of Manisa, where adventure tourism in Turkey can take action immediately with small initiatives. The study was prepared by two methods: qualitative research and geographical area research. Qualitative data were used by making in-depth descriptions and interpretations with the tourism geography approach, and thematic systematic flow was provided from the theory to the findings in the content. Types, components, activities and effects in adventure tourism constitutes the theoretical framework of the study. Geographical field research was carried out in the form of field observations with the competence given by the geographer identity of the authors. The design of this qualitative research is a situation analysis. The findings related to Manisa have been shaped upon the current situation and potential of adventure tourism (Spil Mountain National Park, Kula-Salihli Geopark, Gediz River, Gölmarmara Lake, hiking routes, etc.). The study has gained originality with the suggestions developed within the scope of the components, activities, appropriate areas, and research projects by synthesizing the subjects in theoretical framework with Manisa. The contribution of the study to the research region, literature and tourism geography is to reveal that adventure tourism can be more successful if it is integrated with other tourism types that intersect with it on the basis of space and activities than being implemented by itself. Indeed, the adventure tourism in Manisa has the capacity to integrate with geotourism, mountain tourism, sports tourism and exploration tourism
Evolution of Religious Tourism: Concept, Segmentation and Development of New Identities
Evolution of Religious Tourism: Concept, Segmentation and Development of New Identities
(Evolution of Religious Tourism: Concept, Segmentation and Development of New Identities)
- Author(s):Mariana Balan
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences, Economy, Theology and Religion, Methodology and research technology, Tourism
- Page Range:83-98
- No. of Pages:16
- Keywords:Religious tourism; Tourist motivation; Pilgrimage Tourist behavior
- Summary/Abstract:During the last decades of the 21st century, world tourism has diversified its forms of manifestation internationally, trying to capitalize on the most valuable cultural and religious objectives in the religious cultural heritage of a country. Between tourism and culture, respectively between tourism and religion there are countless interactions and combinations based on the relationship between the cultural objective / sacred place and the motivation of the tourist according to which several aspects can be analyzed. Tourism, in general, be it religious or cultural, is the way in which a country becomes known to the world, and through which other people can see the natural resources, the tourist potential and the riches of that country. Romania has a cultural-historical and ethnofolkloric heritage of great value as well as tourist attractiveness and it is blessed with thousands of holy places and religious monuments, some dating back to the early Christian centuries. This paper presents a brief analysis of the evolution of religious tourism and the way existing concepts, paradigms and practices related to this type of tourism have evolved and changed over time. The performed analyzes show that the concept of religious tourism is gradually transformed and modernized over the years, going through phases of segmentation, creation of new market niches and development of new identities. The regions with cultural-religious tourist potential in Romania are also presented, as well as the activities that can grow and help the development of this type of tourism in our country.
A Research on Students’ Views on Electronic Recreation Activities and Level of Fear of Missing Out
A Research on Students’ Views on Electronic Recreation Activities and Level of Fear of Missing Out
(A Research on Students’ Views on Electronic Recreation Activities and Level of Fear of Missing Out)
- Author(s):Cetin Yavuz, Ali Turan Bayram
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences, Economy, Higher Education , ICT Information and Communications Technologies
- Page Range:99-105
- No. of Pages:7
- Keywords:Electronic recreation; Fear of missing out; College youth;
- Summary/Abstract:The aim of the study is to determine the participation of students in electronic recreation activities and their level of fear of missing out. As a research method, the survey, as a quantitative method, was applied. The population of the research consists of 12664 students studying at Sinop University. A questionnaire was applied to 260 of the students. As a result of the study, it has been determined that electronic recreation activities are more preferred for socializing and it is seen that the level of fear of missing out on those who participate in these electronic recreation activities is not high in general.
Sustainable Mountain Tourism in the Alps: The “Mountaineering Villages” Concept, a Local Model for Sustainable Mountain Tourism in the Alps
Sustainable Mountain Tourism in the Alps: The “Mountaineering Villages” Concept, a Local Model for Sustainable Mountain Tourism in the Alps
(Sustainable Mountain Tourism in the Alps: The “Mountaineering Villages” Concept, a Local Model for Sustainable Mountain Tourism in the Alps)
- Author(s):Thomas Dax, Oliver Tamme
- Contributor(s):Georgia-Daniela Tacu Hârșan (Editor), Alina-Petronela Haller (Editor), Danut Ungureanu (Editor)
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences, Economy, Business Economy / Management, Agriculture, Methodology and research technology, Tourism
- Page Range:106 - 126
- No. of Pages:21
- Keywords:Agritourism; Slow tourism; Local development; Good practice model; Alpine Convention;
- Summary/Abstract:The Alpine range is one of the best-known regions of relentless tourism growth. While it attracted outstanding numbers of tourists through both, summer and winter season, main destination areas are distributed very unevenly across the different parts of the mountain area. This led to a significant concentration of tourism intensity in some regions and even local “hot-spots” with a rising concern for negative effects on environmental performance. Alpine stakeholder groups (CIPRA) therefore advocated very early to address the issues of “overtourism” in this sensitive mountain context and succeeded in convincing politicians to agree on the Alpine Convention (1991), a policy agreement concerned with a whole set of sustainable development issues, including sustainable tourism pathways. Against the persisting mainstream of large-scale mountain tourism in large parts of the Western Alps, but also in Western Austria, few actions towards sustainable mountain tourism were elaborated. Since 2008 small communities have elaborated the concept of “Mountaineering Villages”, first as an initiative of the Austrian Alpine Club within the framework of the Alpine Convention’s activities. It seeks to promote low-intensity tourism strategies in high mountain areas, benefitting from unique mountaineering options. Due to its close interrelation with landscape development and land use, linkages to agriculture and local development of agritourism activities are an important element in these local initiatives. Aspects of enabling nature “experience” and emotional encounters with natural resources and mountain assets are considered instrumental for the attraction and success of the alternative tourism scheme. Spreading from a number of committed communities, at present 22 villages in Austria and increasingly also mountain communities in Italy, Switzerland, Slovenia and Germany are engaged in this concept. At present (May 2022) the association of the Mountaineering Villages extends to 36 municipalities. The paper will analyze how this small niche activity of mountain tourism achieves to address the specific assets of mountains, linking outdoor activities such as climbing, hiking, and nature exploration with landscape development, preservation of nature protection areas and adapted land management. It appears crucial that this link of agricultural activities, agritourism and other forms of rural and mountain tourism shape a specific profile of small-scale communities. Local strategies oriented at sustainable mountain development concepts are assessed as pivotal to provide targeted and ecologically-beneficial approaches of mountain tourism. These might serve as insightful models against growth-dependent large-scale tourism stereotypes
Investigation of Studies on Romanian Rural Tourism with Bibliometric Analysis
Investigation of Studies on Romanian Rural Tourism with Bibliometric Analysis
(Investigation of Studies on Romanian Rural Tourism with Bibliometric Analysis)
- Author(s):Aslı Sultan EREN, Kubra Gundogdu
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences, Economy, National Economy, Methodology and research technology, Rural and urban sociology, Tourism
- Page Range:127-134
- No. of Pages:8
- Keywords:Tourism; Rural tourism; Bibliometric analysis; Romania;
- Summary/Abstract:Rural tourism, which emerged when people struggling with stress in crowded city life went to rural areas in line with their desire to discover themselves, to be intertwined with nature and to return to their essence, offers the local people employment opportunities in many different areas. In addition, doing many activities increases the touristic attraction of rural tourism. It has been frequently preferred by people in recent years. Based on the importance of rural tourism, this study aims to examine the studies on Romanian rural tourism with the bibliometric analysis method. It allows to examine the characteristics of the studies such as method, technique and density. This analysis provides an opportunity to predict what the current situation of rural tourism studies is and how it will be shaped in the future. This situation reveals that the study will make an important contribution to the literature. 47 articles written in English were used as data in the study.
Conceptual Analysis of Recreational Activities in Rural Tourism: A Study in Sinop Province
Conceptual Analysis of Recreational Activities in Rural Tourism: A Study in Sinop Province
(Conceptual Analysis of Recreational Activities in Rural Tourism: A Study in Sinop Province)
- Author(s):Buse Kekec, Defne Egirmen, Duygu Ayaz, Gul Erkol Bayram
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences, Economy, Methodology and research technology, Rural and urban sociology, Tourism, Socio-Economic Research
- Page Range:135-147
- No. of Pages:13
- Keywords:Sinop Province; Rural tourism; Recreational activities; Conceptual analysis;
- Summary/Abstract:Sinop Province has a very convenient structure in terms of the use and development of rural tourism activities. The city, which home to different bird species, lakes, waterfalls, nature park, plateaus and many other natural beauties in the region, is also rich in cultural and historical terms. The aim of the study is to examine and develop rural tourism recreational activities in the province of Sinop. The study aims to increase the demand for rural tourism, to ensure the development of rural facilities, and to evaluate the infrastructure and superstructure by examining the recreational activities carried out within the scope of rural tourism in the province of Sinop from a conceptual perspective. The research is important in terms of supporting the socio-cultural and economic development of the people of the region, strengthening the relationship with the tourist, contributing to the development of the region. It is important in terms of contributing to the development of the region, its sustainability and the correct use of productive natural areas that can be brought into tourism.
Cost-Oriented Management of Agritourism Social Infrastructure in Ukraine
Cost-Oriented Management of Agritourism Social Infrastructure in Ukraine
(Cost-Oriented Management of Agritourism Social Infrastructure in Ukraine)
- Author(s):Yulia Manachynska, Svitlana Luchyk, Olena Moshkovska, Volodymyr I. YEVDOSHCHAK
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences, Economy, Agriculture, Methodology and research technology, Accounting - Business Administration, Tourism
- Page Range:148-162
- No. of Pages:15
- Keywords:Cost; Management; Actuarial reporting; Agritourism; Infrastructure;
- Summary/Abstract:In the current conditions of declining tourism activity due to the coronavirus pandemic, Ukraine agritourism needs an appropriate level of investment support from real and potential investors. An effective form of development of agritourism is its development as one of the types of subsidiary production of agricultural enterprises. That is, the agricultural enterprise must be socially responsible and develop infrastructure for tourism. The purpose of the study is to implement N-dimensional model of cost-oriented management based on actuarial accounting at domestic agricultural enterprises in rural areas, the content of which will provide investors with an objective assessment of their value through the prism of actuarial reporting. The object of the study is the process of cost-oriented management of rural agribusiness based on the Actuarial Balance Sheet. The research methodology is based on the application of the 3D-recording method, discounted valuation and 5D-actuarial reporting in displaying information from the actuarial accounting system. Inventions and conclusions. The results of the study showed that agricultural enterprises need to attract investment not only in the development of agricultural production, but also in the development of infrastructure for tourism which could attract tourists and prolong their stay in rural areas. The innovation and value of the results confirmed the effectiveness of the proposed N-dimensional model for cost-oriented management of agritourism social infrastructure on the grounds of accounting and information base of N-dimensional actuarial reporting.
The Earthquake Impact on Tourism Industry: The Kos Case
The Earthquake Impact on Tourism Industry: The Kos Case
(The Earthquake Impact on Tourism Industry: The Kos Case)
- Author(s):Laura Joana PAPANIKOLOPOULOU ARCO
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences, Economy, Media studies, Communication studies, Sociology, Methodology and research technology, Tourism, ICT Information and Communications Technologies
- Page Range:163-173
- No. of Pages:11
- Keywords:Tourism; Natural disasters; Socio-digital networks; Press;
- Summary/Abstract:Earthquakes, like other natural disasters, affect the development of the area, the environment, the economy, society and tourism. The objective of this study is to know the impact of earthquakes on tourism. Specifically, the impact of the 2017 earthquake that hit the island of Kos in Greece, affecting local tourism, is studied. The island of Kos is very touristy and the earthquake occurred in July at the height of the tourist season. The main source of income for citizens in this area is based on tourism. During this event, citizens, in their social network accounts, show their concern for the future of tourism in the area. The methodology used is based on the observation of the publications of local users on Twitter and articles in the digital and printed press that address this issue. Data mining from two different sources is performed to understand the general perspective of the media and the vision of citizens. The results show the concern of the natives towards the tourist impact and the attempt to protect and care for the tourists who are in the area during the earthquake.
The Relationship Between Communication Skills and Tourism Perceptions of Local People: The Case of Sinop
The Relationship Between Communication Skills and Tourism Perceptions of Local People: The Case of Sinop
(The Relationship Between Communication Skills and Tourism Perceptions of Local People: The Case of Sinop)
- Author(s):Hasibe Yazit, Gul Erkol Bayram, Melike Sak
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences, Economy, Communication studies, Methodology and research technology, Social development, Tourism, Socio-Economic Research
- Page Range:174-183
- No. of Pages:10
- Keywords:Local people; Communication skills; Tourism perception; Sinop;
- Summary/Abstract:Local people are one of the important drivers of tourism. They have a significant role on tourist behavior for having a positive destination image and repeat visits. This situation emphasizes the importance of the communication of the local people with the tourists. Tourism perception of the local people is seen as an indicator of its contribution to tourism development. The local people’s positive perception of tourism will enable tourists to be satisfied with this region and contribute to the touristic development of the region. It is thought that tourists from the local people who can develop effective communication skills and positive tourism perception will also be satisfied. In this context, the aim of the research is to determine the relationship between communication skills and tourism perception. In the scope of the research, a questionnaire was applied to 500 people residing in the city of Sinop. The data obtained were evaluated with the SPSS program and the relationship between the communication skills of the local people and their perception of tourism was tested. According to the results, a positive and negative relationship was determined between the communication skills of the local people and the sub-dimensions of tourism perceptions. Some suggestions were made according to the results of the research
Light Pollution and Astro-tourism: The Case of Melik Plateau
Light Pollution and Astro-tourism: The Case of Melik Plateau
(Light Pollution and Astro-tourism: The Case of Melik Plateau)
- Author(s):Hatice Sari Gok
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences, Economy, Energy and Environmental Studies, Methodology and research technology, Environmental interactions, Tourism
- Page Range:184-192
- No. of Pages:9
- Keywords:Light pollution; Tourism; Astrotourism; Melik Plateau
- Summary/Abstract:The sky, the stars, the rainbow, and the universe have always piqued people’s interest, from ancient times to the present. The night sky can be enjoyed in all its glory in large rural areas that are not harmed by light pollution. For sky observations, places with less light pollution are favored due to heavy light pollution in cities. The concept of astro-tourism was born as a result of this event’s transformation into a tourism activity. Astro-tourism is a sort of nature-based tourism that involves traveling to locations where there is no light pollution to observe the sky and celestial occurrences. The Melik Plateau in Isparta Province has been named the darkest place among Turkey’s National Parks, with little light and air pollution. As a result, the goal of this study is to determine the current state of astro-tourism activities on the Melik Plateau. For this purpose, a SWOT analysis was made regarding the astro-tourism activities of Melik Plateau.
The Cultural Tourism of Blaj
The Cultural Tourism of Blaj
(The Cultural Tourism of Blaj)
- Author(s):Simona Spanu, Virgil Nicula
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences, Economy, Museology & Heritage Studies, National Economy, Tourism
- Page Range:193-207
- No. of Pages:15
- Keywords:Tourism; Culture; Cultural itineraries; Heritage;
- Summary/Abstract:Blaj is a city with two defining dimensions: history and culture. It is the city that stands as the symbol of some of the most important moments in the history of the Romanians, the main events that marked the existence of this small town being related to its role as a religious, educational, and cultural center of both Transylvania and Romania. A tourism analysis was made in order to define sustainable directions for the development of the culturat tourism of Blaj and it was based on the answers of 151 respondents and on discussions with key people from the local administration, culture, education and religious groups. The measures suggested for supporting the capacity of the tourism sector contribute to promoting the role of culture in the sustainable development through creative economy, by increasing access to culture, increasing the diversity of cultural expressions and the integration of Romanian culture in the international cultural tourism circuit.
Branding as a Part of Tourist Destination Development
Branding as a Part of Tourist Destination Development
(Branding as a Part of Tourist Destination Development)
- Author(s):Brankica TODOROVIĆ
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences, Economy, Business Economy / Management, Marketing / Advertising, Tourism, Socio-Economic Research
- Page Range:208-222
- No. of Pages:15
- Keywords:Destination branding; Protected areas; Tourist region;
- Summary/Abstract:Destination branding is of special importance to the development of tourism in accordance with the requirements of tourist demand. The brand builds loyalty and reduces the risk associated with the intangibility of tourism products. In addition to the growth of tourist demand, the number of protected areas within which tourism is developing in accordance with the prescribed protection system is also increasing. The objectives of the analysis in the paper are: importance of tourist destinations and protected areas as brands; opportunities for tourism development in protected areas; and elements of branding in the tourist region of Western Serbia.
Main Characteristics of the Accommodation Facilities in Rural Areas: The Case Study of Bulgarian North-West Region
Main Characteristics of the Accommodation Facilities in Rural Areas: The Case Study of Bulgarian North-West Region
(Main Characteristics of the Accommodation Facilities in Rural Areas: The Case Study of Bulgarian North-West Region)
- Author(s):Desislava Varadzhakova, Stefan Genchev
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Social Sciences, Economy, National Economy, Methodology and research technology, Rural and urban sociology, Tourism
- Page Range:223-247
- No. of Pages:25
- Keywords:Rural areas; Accommodation facilities; Tourism; Bulgaria; North-West Region;
- Summary/Abstract:Tourism sector is very important for the Bulgarian economy. Before the pandemic of COVID-19 it generates between 10% and 12% of the country’s GDP. The present paper discusses the specifics of the tourism business in the rural areas. For the purpose of the study the research object are the accommodation facilities in these areas. The North-West Region of Bulgaria is chosen as a researched area because it is the least economically developed area in the country. There are 46 rural areas, evenly distributed in the five provinces of the region. The main types of accommodation, their characteristics, their territorial location compared to major urban centers and their relationship with the number of tourist attractions in the researched areas are identified. The main goal of the paper is to explore the potential for development of tourism in rural areas, based on a study of the accommodation facilities in the rural areas in the North-West Region of Bulgaria. The research includes an analysis of the disparities between the different rural areas, the possible reasons for them, as well as the opportunities for tourism development. The conclusions that have been made can become the basis for the development of tourism products and regional strategies for the development of specialized and alternative types of tourism.