Re-Thinking the Role of Rural Tourism. Potentials for a Sustainable Transborder Tourism in the Area Bulgaria-Greece (original) (raw)

Abstract

The paper aims to analyze the transborder area between South-West Bulgaria and Northern Greece through the lenses of sustainable rural tourism. The research evaluates the potentials for rural tourism by exploring the competitiveness of the chosen borderland. The applied qualitative analysis uses the complex aggregate indicator of competitiveness which is comprised of twelve criteria. The final aim of research is to emphasize the role of rural tourism so to rethink the possibilities of a common transborder strategy for sustainable rural tourism. The interesting and unique aspect of the study lays in its holistic approach and its deductive character.

Key takeaways

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  1. The study emphasizes sustainable rural tourism's potential in the Bulgaria-Greece transborder region.
  2. It evaluates competitiveness using a complex aggregate indicator based on twelve criteria.
  3. Drama, Serres, and Blagoevgrad regions show varying competitiveness levels for rural tourism development.
  4. Transborder rural tourism combines local resources and satisfies modern travelers' needs for nature and culture.
  5. Challenges include local community awareness, administrative capacity, and financial resource limitations.

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References (28)

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FAQs

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What method assesses competitiveness in transborder rural tourism regions?add

The study employs a complex aggregate indicator based on twelve criteria, evaluated by expert scores on a 1-10 scale.

How do drama, Serres, and Blagoevgrad compare in rural tourism competitiveness?add

Drama exhibited the highest competitiveness rating, followed by Serres and then Blagoevgrad, indicating varying development levels of rural tourism.

What role does public administration play in rural tourism sustainability?add

Support from public administration is crucial, as identified in the criteria for tourism development that influences competitiveness and cooperation.

What timeframe marks the development of sustainable rural tourism in Bulgaria?add

Rural tourism in Bulgaria has progressed over the last one to two decades, reflecting a later developmental stage compared to Greece.

What are the risks affecting transborder rural tourism cooperation?add

Key risks include insufficient community awareness, lack of administrative capacity, and limited financial resources for joint initiatives.