engleski

Rural tourism perspectives: crisis as an opportunity

Crisis situations, especially the global crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, point out the vulnerability of tourism as a global economic and social phenomenon. Although crises usually have negative effects on the economic and social system, in the pandemic crisis rural areas have been given the opportunity for stronger development, including the development of rural tourism. The expansion of rural tourism is a trend that is common to most countries in Europe and in the last couple of years this trend has been affecting Croatian rural areas as well. Rural areas are attractive to tourists because of its specific intrinsic rural characteristics where they can run away from rapid urban lifestyle and find authenticity and peace. In the new pandemic conditions, rural areas are particularly attractive to tourists, as destinations that are not overcrowded are preferred. The aim of this paper is to point out the characteristics and development perspectives of rural tourism despite crisis situations. The analysis includes European policies and concepts that directly support the development of rural tourism and create a stimulating environment for its new development phases. Literature, documents, and secondary data will be analyzed, based on which recommendations for further development in the context of sustainability and quality will be summarized ; focus on strengthening and engaging local communities, inclusion, and preservation of local natural and cultural resources.

crisis, rural tourism, sustainability, tourism development

nije evidentirano