ITM 8 - Modern Management Tools and Economy of Tourism Sector in present Era - 8th ISSUE
ITM 8 - Modern Management Tools and Economy of Tourism Sector in present Era - 8th ISSUE
Contributor(s): Vuk Bevanda (Editor), Snežana Štetić (Editor)
Subject(s): Tourism
ISSN: 2683-5673
Published by: Udruženje ekonomista i menadžera Balkana
Series: MODERN MANAGEMENT & ECONOMY OF TOURISM
- Print-ISBN-13: 978-86-80194-81-3
- Page Count: 0
- Publication Year: 2023
- Language: English
Circular Economy as a Factor in the Sustainability of the Tourism Sector. A Study Applied to Accommodation and Restaurants in the Municipality of Setúbal (Portugal)
Circular Economy as a Factor in the Sustainability of the Tourism Sector. A Study Applied to Accommodation and Restaurants in the Municipality of Setúbal (Portugal)
(Circular Economy as a Factor in the Sustainability of the Tourism Sector. A Study Applied to Accommodation and Restaurants in the Municipality of Setúbal (Portugal))
- Author(s):Ana Jose Carvalho, Sandrina B. Moreira, Luisa Carvalho
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Economy, Tourism
- Page Range:1-20
- No. of Pages:20
- Keywords:Circular Economy; Tourism; Sustainability
- Summary/Abstract:The lack of natural resources in the face of population growth is a serious challenge for today’s societies. The development of circular economy strategies is a possible way forward, also for tourism as one of the main economic activities in the world. Based on the assumption that the circular economy is a factor in the sustainability of the tourism sector, the main objective of this research was to analyse the existence and implementation of circular economy policies in companies/organizations in the Accommodation, Catering and Similar activity segment in the municipality of Setúbal. The specific objectives included identifying the profile of those responsible for these companies/organizations, identifying the profile of these entities, checking whether they have circular economy practices, identifying the motivations that lead their managers to adopt or not adopt these practices, and analyzing what higher education institutions, such as the Instituto Politécnico Setúbal (IPS), can do to help companies/organizations overcome these difficulties and obstacles. For the development of this study, a quantitative approach was used, and the information was obtained through the application of a questionnaire survey to a convenience sample of 200 companies/organizations in the sector in the Municipality of Setúbal, with 45 responses considered valid for statistical treatment using SPSS software. This study has shown that companies/organizations in the Accommodation, Catering and Similar activities segment of the tourism sector in the municipality of Setúbal are gearing their actions towards sustainability, adopting circular economy policies, particularly in some specific aspects such as reducing plastic and using reusable materials, considering cultural, financial, technological and human aspects as those that most influence the adoption of these practices and looking to the IPS as a fundamental partner in terms of awareness and dissemination. Looking at the national picture, it can be concluded that, on the one hand, companies/organizations in the sector and segments considered have already started on the road to sustainability by adopting practices typical of the circular economy, but on the other hand, there is still a long way to go in this area, and that working in partnership between these companies/organizations, educational institutions and local and national authorities is essential.
From Tradition to Transformation: The Role of SMEs in Advancing Sustainable Tourism in Albania
From Tradition to Transformation: The Role of SMEs in Advancing Sustainable Tourism in Albania
(From Tradition to Transformation: The Role of SMEs in Advancing Sustainable Tourism in Albania)
- Author(s):Kladiola Gjini
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Business Economy / Management, Tourism
- Page Range:21-32
- No. of Pages:12
- Keywords:Sustainable tourism; SMEs; Albania; Tradition; Transformation
- Summary/Abstract:Albania’s tourism industry has seen significant growth, captivating travelers with its stunning landscapes, cultural heritage, and inviting atmosphere. Within this context, SMEs in the hospitality sector have arisen as key players, advocating sustainable tourism. This chapter presents how Albanian SMEs’ have transitioned from traditional to eco-conscious businesses, evaluating their contributions to economic, environmental, and social sustainability, all while preserving local traditions and culture. Findings suggest that these SMEs significantly support local communities, generating employment, sourcing locally, and supporting regional development. Moreover, they exhibit greater innovation and creativity in sustainable tourism. Albania’s SMEs show a growing commitment to environmental and social sustainability, embracing eco-friendly measures while enhancing connections between tourists and local communities. Despite their positive impact, challenges hinder their full potential. To address these, targeted support from policymakers and industry stakeholders is essential.
Strategic Orientation of Croatian Island Local Governments from the Aspect of Sustainability and their Practical Application
Strategic Orientation of Croatian Island Local Governments from the Aspect of Sustainability and their Practical Application
(Strategic Orientation of Croatian Island Local Governments from the Aspect of Sustainability and Their Practical Application)
- Author(s):Dijana Vuković, Boris Jurčić, Anica Hunjet
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Public Administration
- Page Range:33-45
- No. of Pages:14
- Keywords:Croatian islands; Local self-government; Sustainable development; Tourism
- Summary/Abstract:Public institutions today, starting from smaller levels up to district and ministry levels, are focused on sustainability based on leadership, considering that sustainability contributes to improving the quality of life, health, and well-being of the community. Nevertheless, this is frequently merely a declarative orientation that is not put into practice. For what reason will we be researching the islands? for many reasons. The islands serve as ideal test sites for sustainability in three ways: first, because of their geographic and economic constraints; second, because biodiversity preservation is imperative; and third, because of the social dimension of sustainability, which is associated with the unique lifestyle of the Adriatic island population. This paper aims to investigate, i.e., compare the number of strategic documents that exist or are in the stage of practical application among local self-governing units on Croatian islands, based on sustainability criteria.
Do Tourism Indicators Have an Influence on Unemployment? Case of Selected Balkan Countries
Do Tourism Indicators Have an Influence on Unemployment? Case of Selected Balkan Countries
(Do Tourism Indicators Have an Influence on Unemployment? Case of Selected Balkan Countries)
- Author(s):Nataša Pavlović, Vera Mirović, Branimir Kalaš
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Tourism, Human Resources in Economy
- Page Range:47-59
- No. of Pages:14
- Keywords:Tourism; Unemployment; Effects; Different panel techniques; Balkan countries
- Summary/Abstract:Tourism represents one of the most rapidly growing sectors in the world. This study aims to identify the effect of tourism indicators on the unemployment rate. The subject of the study implies evaluating the effect of international tourism revenues and international tourism arrivals on unemployment in selected Balkan countries (Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Hungary, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia and Slovenia) for the period 2007-2020. The empirical findings confirmed that given tourism indicators negatively influence unemployment on the panel level. It means that a higher level of international tourism revenues and a greater number of international tourism arrivals decrease unemployment rates. The obtained results indicate that these economies should pay more attention to the share of the tourism sector in their economic structure to enable lucrative effects on their economic prosperities.
Purchasing Power Parity in B5 Countries: How Important Are Tourism Prices?
Purchasing Power Parity in B5 Countries: How Important Are Tourism Prices?
(Purchasing Power Parity in B5 Countries: How Important Are Tourism Prices?)
- Author(s):Jani Beko, Darja Boršič
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Economy, Tourism
- Page Range:61-91
- No. of Pages:32
- Keywords:Panel unit root tests; Panel cointegration tests; Tourism sector; Consumer price indices for hotels and restaurants
- Summary/Abstract:This chapter examines the PPP hypothesis in five Balkan countries (B5). The current analysis incorporates four important novelties. First, from a methodological standpoint, the PPP is scrutinized by a range of first-generation and second-generation panel unit root tests. Additionally, three panel cointegration tests are performed: the Pedroni residual cointegration test, the Kao residual cointegration test and the Johansen Fisher cointegration test. Second, the study utilizes two price indicators: the consumer price index for hotels and restaurants and the general consumer price index. Third, the PPP proposition for the Balkan economies is inspected using a new, updated data set covering the period from January 2006 to December 2023. Fourth, two numeraire currencies, the euro and the USD, are operated to assess the validity of exchange rate parity conditions. The econometric results provide resolute support for the PPP concept in the group of B5 countries.
How do Accommodation Prices Affect Tourism in Slovakia? Own Price and Cross Price Elasticity of Demand in the Regions of Slovakia
How do Accommodation Prices Affect Tourism in Slovakia? Own Price and Cross Price Elasticity of Demand in the Regions of Slovakia
(How do Accommodation Prices Affect Tourism in Slovakia? Own Price and Cross Price Elasticity of Demand in the Regions of Slovakia)
- Author(s):Elena Hoškova, Martin Richter, Iveta Zentkova
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Business Economy / Management, Tourism
- Page Range:93-105
- No. of Pages:14
- Keywords:Accommodation demand; Price; Own price elasticity; Cross price elasticity
- Summary/Abstract:The chapter aims to determine the impact of accommodation prices on the demand for accommodation in individual regions of the Slovak Republic. The data for the analysis were drawn from the Statistical Office of the Slovak Republic for the period January 2017 to June 2023 from individual regions of the Slovak Republic. Regression analysis was used. The results showed that the most visited regions are Bratislava, Žilina and Prešov regions with very significant seasonality. The forecast assumed that seasonality would be maintained into the next period. The estimated regression functions of demand showed that the quantity demanded for accommodation responds statistically significantly to its price, especially in the Nitra region, and demand is price elastic here. According to the coefficients of the cross-price elasticity of demand, accommodation in the Trenčín region was a substitute for accommodation in other regions in the period under consideration. The analysis showed that the demand for accommodation is influenced not only by the tourist attractiveness of the area but also by the price of accommodation.
The Role of Financial Technology in Croatia’s Tourism Sector
The Role of Financial Technology in Croatia’s Tourism Sector
(The Role of Financial Technology in Croatia’s Tourism Sector)
- Author(s):Maja-Marija Prevolšek, Anja Tkalčević, Gordi Sušić
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Tourism, ICT Information and Communications Technologies
- Page Range:107-124
- No. of Pages:18
- Keywords:Croatia’s tourism sector; Financial technology; FinTech; Smart tourism; Competitiveness
- Summary/Abstract:This study explores the role of financial technologies in the Croatian tourism sector, highlighting their impact on operational efficiency, tourist experience, sustainability and competitiveness. To shed more light on the role of FinTech, motives for its adoption, advantages and potential challenges, authors constructed and conducted a survey that was distributed to relevant tourism industry participants in Croatia. Survey-obtained data was then used to compare the results of focus participants in light of the conducted literature review. Results of a survey point to a correlation between the size of the tourism companies and the level of familiarity with the concept of smart tourism and the implementation of innovative solutions. Highly categorized facilities often show a greater tendency to adopt frontier technological options to meet the high expectations of their guests. The results also show that the majority of participants are planning or considering further expansions or investing in FinTech solutions to remain competitive. In addition to own development and the need for continuous education, overall governmental medium-term development strategy and proper guidance are also recognized as preconditions for the industry’s sustainable future growth.
The Impact of Current Crises on Selected Tourism Enterprises in Slovakia in the Context of Personnel Management
The Impact of Current Crises on Selected Tourism Enterprises in Slovakia in the Context of Personnel Management
(The Impact of Current Crises on Selected Tourism Enterprises in Slovakia in the Context of Personnel Management)
- Author(s):Anna Šenková, Erika Kormanikova, Patricia Patakyova
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Tourism, Human Resources in Economy
- Page Range:125-147
- No. of Pages:24
- Keywords:Personnel management; Accommodation and catering establishments; Tourism; COVID-19 pandemic; Military conflict in Ukraine; Energy crisis
- Summary/Abstract:The present study deals with the extremely topical issue of the impact of the three ongoing crises on selected business sectors. Its main objective is to examine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the military conflict in Ukraine and the energy crisis on selected business sectors in Slovakia in the context of personnel management. Information on the impact of these crises on the selected sectors was obtained by questionnaire method in cooperation with the Republic Union of Employers and the Association of Hotels and Restaurants of Slovakia. Thus, in the example of 78 enterprises from the selected sectors, it was found that the most significant impact on these sectors was the impact of the pandemic and the energy crisis. In the conclusion of the study, we present proposals aimed at an integrated management model that considers the current state of the enterprises in the selected sectors after the impact of these crises has been felt.
Is Tourism in Slovakia Attractive? Analysis of Tourism Development in Slovakia
Is Tourism in Slovakia Attractive? Analysis of Tourism Development in Slovakia
(Is Tourism in Slovakia Attractive? Analysis of Tourism Development in Slovakia)
- Author(s):Zuzana Bajusova, Jana Ladvenicová
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Tourism
- Page Range:149-165
- No. of Pages:18
- Keywords:Accommodation facilities; Visitors; Overnight stays; Sales; Price; Slovakia
- Summary/Abstract:Slovakia is a small country in terms of area, but from the point of view of tourism, it has a lot to offer both domestic and foreign visitors. It has a good geographical location, also from the point of view of combining the visit with other European neighboring states. The country is divided into 21 tourist regions. Like many industries, the tourism industry was most affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The year 2019 was the most successful from the point of view of tourism in terms of all indicators related to tourism. In the contribution, we focused on the development of selected indicators related to tourism in Slovakia and in individual regions for the period 2012-2022. During this period, there were an average of 3,950 accommodation facilities in Slovakia. The largest number of accommodation facilities were in the Žilina region. During this period, an average of 4,461,381 visitors visited Slovakia, with domestic and foreign visitors predominating. The average number of overnight stays of visitors for the analyzed period was 2.9. The average revenue for accommodation services reached the value of €345,065,476 during this period. The average accommodation price was at the level of €27.32, while the highest price was in the Bratislava region (average at the level of €35.05). The largest number of visitors from abroad was from the Czech Republic every year.
Performance Evaluation of Tourist Destinations: The Case of Vlora Region
Performance Evaluation of Tourist Destinations: The Case of Vlora Region
(Performance Evaluation of Tourist Destinations: The Case of Vlora Region)
- Author(s):Xhiliola Agaraj (Shehu), Enida Pulaj (Brakaj)
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Tourism
- Page Range:167-179
- No. of Pages:14
- Keywords:Performance indicators; Local/regional/national responsible authorities; Tourism destination management
- Summary/Abstract:Management of tourist destinations oriented towards sustainable development is necessary for a competitive international market. The importance of the authorities responsible for the management of tourist destinations, the coordination of activities, and the orientation of interest groups in the design and implementation of policies towards a common goal are in focus today. Given the role, responsibilities, and importance of the authorities responsible for the management of tourist destination management, the need to evaluate their performance in terms of the management and marketing initiatives of the tourist destination is evident. The purpose of this research is to evaluate the performance of the responsible authorities regarding the performance evaluation indicators. The research methodology is based on the collection of secondary data on the performance indicators, which belong to the last few years. The secondary data collected for each indicator served to complete the questionnaire that evaluates the trend of the performance indicators of the local, regional, and national authorities responsible for the management of the tourist destination. This research provides an understanding of the performance evaluation of the responsible authorities in tourist destination management as well as the importance of evaluating performance indicators in the sustainable manage¬ment of tourist destinations and taking appropriate measures related to their improvement.
Promoting Gastronomy Tourism in Croatia: Comparing Food and Wine Experiences
Promoting Gastronomy Tourism in Croatia: Comparing Food and Wine Experiences
(Promoting Gastronomy Tourism in Croatia: Comparing Food and Wine Experiences)
- Author(s):Matea Hanžek, Gordi Sušić
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Business Economy / Management, Tourism
- Page Range:181-193
- No. of Pages:14
- Keywords:Gastronomy tourism; Wine tourism; Destination image; Croatia; Food; Wine; Destination branding
- Summary/Abstract:At a time when tourism destinations are looking at prospects to expand their offering, it is of significant importance to echo on opportunities these offer for gastronomy tourism development. This paper provides an overview of gastronomy and tourism as an attraction for tourism, beforehand moving on to the case of Croatia, whose geographical position in the Southeast of Europe made it one of the ideal locations for gastronomy tourism developments. In attempting to at least partially answer the question of whether Croatia is portrayed and perceived as a destination with a rich gastronomy tourism offering, this research relies on content and semiotic analysis of the official Croatian National Tourist Board website in order to shed light on the modes in which representations of gastronomy tourism are included in the current tourism campaign. The research concludes with reflections on the overall importance of gastronomy tourism for the development of Croatia as an alluring gastronomy destination and highlights the role meaningful inclusions of representations of gastronomy tourism can play in contributing to strategically desirable shifts in the country’s overall destination image.
Gastronomy Tourism Experiences: A Review and Future Research Agenda
Gastronomy Tourism Experiences: A Review and Future Research Agenda
(Gastronomy Tourism Experiences: A Review and Future Research Agenda)
- Author(s):Marina Laškarin Ažić, Dora Rašan, Krešimir Mikinac
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Economy, Tourism
- Page Range:195-209
- No. of Pages:16
- Keywords:Gastronomy tourism; Gastronomy tourism experiences; Literature review; Keyword clustering
- Summary/Abstract:This research aims to analyse an extended body of literature on gastronomy tourism experiences (GTEs) and propose a future research agenda. To achieve this purpose, a literature review was conducted. The review results imply that research in this field had a peak moment before COVID-19, specifically in 2018 and 2019, in North America and Asia. During this period, scholars predominantly applied quantitative methods, focusing on keywords such as service quality, satisfaction, memory, and behavioral intentions to study GTEs. This review suggests new directions for future research in the field of GTE. In particular, researchers should focus on exploring adaptive strategies to external shocks, value for money, the impact of AI on multisensory experiences, and enhancing authenticity through collaboration with local communities.
Adventure Tourism Experience – A Systematic Literature Review
Adventure Tourism Experience – A Systematic Literature Review
(Adventure Tourism Experience – A Systematic Literature Review)
- Author(s):Vedran Zubović
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Economy, Tourism
- Page Range:211-220
- No. of Pages:10
- Keywords:Adventure tourism; Adventure tourism experience; Literature review; Content analysis; Scopus and WoS database
- Summary/Abstract:The adventure tourism experience is a growing area of scholars’ research. This conceptual article thoroughly examines the fundamental concepts involved in the definition of Adventure Tourism, highlighting SERVQUAL dimensions (reliability, assurance, tangibles, empathy, and responsiveness) which can be applied to measure service quality in the adventure tourism experience. Publications from the Scopus and WoS databases, through the combination of complementary approaches of literature review and content analysis, revealed that Quality of Experience, Customer Satisfaction, Likelihood to Recommend and Intention to Revisit are theoretical dimensions that classify adventure tourism service quality through attributes of Physiological and Psychological Experience, Safety Management, Equipment Quality and Staff Competence.
Conceptualizing Wine Festival Visitor Experience
Conceptualizing Wine Festival Visitor Experience
(Conceptualizing Wine Festival Visitor Experience)
- Author(s):Srđan Mitrović, Josipa Forjan
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Agriculture, Tourism
- Page Range:221-231
- No. of Pages:12
- Keywords:Visitor experience; Festival experience; Experience economy; Wine tourism; Festival tourism
- Summary/Abstract:Festivals attract visitors outside of the tourist season and to destinations they would not otherwise visit because they provide memorable experiences based on visitor’s special interests. Wine festivals combine elements of wine and festival tourism and are a perfect opportunity to create unique experiences. Experience economy suggests that decisions on purchases (or travel) are made with a combination of rational (cognitive) and irrational (emotional) elements which are subjective and context-specific. The purpose of this research is to conceptualize a theoretical framework that explains the experience of wine festival visitors through its dimensions, ancendents and consequences. Results show that the wine festival experience is a multidimensional construct and a result of visitors’ interactions with the festival environment and is dependent on visitor’s motivations and involvement with wine. The proposed conceptual framework builds on existing knowledge, broadens the scope of experience dimensions and provides a framework for empirical examination of wine festival experiences.
Understanding the Dynamics and Impact of Dark Tourism
Understanding the Dynamics and Impact of Dark Tourism
(Understanding the Dynamics and Impact of Dark Tourism)
- Author(s):Anton Vorina, Tinkara Pokorny, Tina Vorina, Tamara Klicek
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Economy, Tourism
- Page Range:233-243
- No. of Pages:12
- Keywords:Dark tourism; Traveling; Dark tourists; Tourism of the future
- Summary/Abstract:Purpose: This article explores the growing trend of dark tourism by investigating its underlying motivations and potential future directions. Through a comprehensive analysis, it uncovers the increasing popularity of this niche among diverse generations, shedding light on how destinations marked by tumultuous histories captivate tourists seeking to engage with the past. Aim: Our research focuses on three key areas: defining the core concept of dark tourism, evaluating its potential as a transformative force in the tourism industry, and crafting an idealized profile of a dark tourist. Methodology: This study employs a comprehensive literature review using sources from 2020 to 2023, accessed through Google Scholar and other academic databases. A total of 25 sources were consulted to ensure a thorough understanding of the topic. Ethical Issues: The ethical considerations of dark tourism include the desensitization and trivialization of historical tragedies, the potential exploitation and over-commercialization of sensitive sites, and the importance of maintaining the authenticity and integrity of dark destinations. Findings: The results provide a comprehensive overview of dark tourism and its potential impact on the future of the tourism industry. Recommendations are offered on how destinations can responsibly attract and cater to dark tourists, ensuring that their visits are both meaningful and respectful of the historical contexts.
Digital Reconstruction of Organizational Culture: Montenegrinian Tourism Entities Summary
Digital Reconstruction of Organizational Culture: Montenegrinian Tourism Entities Summary
(Digital Reconstruction of Organizational Culture: Montenegrinian Tourism Entities Summary)
- Author(s):Žarko Rađenović, Olivera Vlahović, Mileva Manojlović
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Economy, Tourism
- Page Range:245-260
- No. of Pages:16
- Keywords:Organizational culture; Digitalization; Tourism
- Summary/Abstract:One of the most important steps in raising the effectiveness of an organization’s operations is the digitalization of its culture and the development of a digital environment for its company. At all organizational levels, tourism entities should undertake the process of adopting information systems and match them to the type of organizational culture. Therefore, the purpose of this work is to determine if organizational culture and its digital reconstruction and transformation in Montenegrin tourist entities, especially hotels, have a beneficial conjunction over five years. The anticipated findings, which were obtained at more than 100 hotels using the OCAI (Organizational Culture Assessment Instrument) questionnaire and a few digital variables, should demonstrate that the organization has advanced considerably since going digital and that Clan’s organizational culture is now the most prevalent.
Taking Advantage of Using 3D Virtual Reality in Tourism: Case of Berati Ethnographic Museum
Taking Advantage of Using 3D Virtual Reality in Tourism: Case of Berati Ethnographic Museum
(Taking Advantage of Using 3D Virtual Reality in Tourism: Case of Berati Ethnographic Museum)
- Author(s):Sokol Shurdhi, Gazmend Zeneli
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Tourism, ICT Information and Communications Technologies
- Page Range:261-274
- No. of Pages:14
- Keywords:3D VR; Albania; Ethnographic Museum; Berat; Virtual tour
- Summary/Abstract:Berat is one of the most beautiful places in Albania, attracting thousands of tourists. The Ethnographic Museum, a former traditional house, today reassessed as a city museum represents one of the main attractions. The surrounding urban context in the proximity of the building presents some analogies with the organic structure of the historic quarters. Virtual travel is an innovative form of tourism where users can experience a place by being actively and meaningfully engaged with the history, people, culture, artefacts and environment of a specific historical period. Our goal was to create a user-friendly platform that empowers users with easy access to a vast range of cultural resources, thereby enhancing their overall experience. The proposed virtual tour is going to be a step forward in the museum sector because it will offer users a different experience based on interactivity thanks to 3D Virtual Reality.
Examining the Attitudes of the Local Population about Tourism Impacts on Rural Precincts of Serbia
Examining the Attitudes of the Local Population about Tourism Impacts on Rural Precincts of Serbia
(Examining the Attitudes of the Local Population about Tourism Impacts on Rural Precincts of Serbia)
- Author(s):Milena Podovac, Romina Alkier Radnić
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Agriculture, Tourism
- Page Range:275-289
- No. of Pages:16
- Keywords:Local population; Tourism impacts; Attitudes; Rural precincts; Serbia
- Summary/Abstract:Considering that the rural precincts of Serbia are recognized as an exceptional potential for tourism development, it is necessary to examine the impact of this economic activity on the local population and their quality of life. For that reason, an empirical study was conducted on a sample of 347 participants, who live in rural precincts of Serbia. Based on the theoretical analysis, the statements were defined, which are related to economic, environmental, socio-cultural, and physical tourism impacts. The existence of significant differences in the attitudes of the local population regarding their characteristics has also been analyzed. The research results indicated that the rural residents in Serbia have positive attitudes towards tourism development. The key conclusion was that education partially influences the attitudes of the local population about tourism impacts on rural precincts of Serbia. The findings also enable the identification of research limitations and the guidelines for further research.
A Comprehensive Analysis of Online Reviews in the Srem Region through Topic Modeling
A Comprehensive Analysis of Online Reviews in the Srem Region through Topic Modeling
(A Comprehensive Analysis of Online Reviews in the Srem Region through Topic Modeling)
- Author(s):Olivera Grljević, Mirjana Maričić
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Media studies, Tourism
- Page Range:291-311
- No. of Pages:22
- Keywords:Topic modeling; Online reviews; Tourist preferences
- Summary/Abstract:This chapter employs topic modeling to reveal the public stance and perception of tourist destinations in the Srem region, providing insights into their diverse appeal and variety of tourist profiles. Social media is the touch point with visitors of tourist attractions and consumers of tourist services. The collection of online reviews of tourist attractions in the Srem region is populated and used for modeling the hidden thematic structures. The authors identified an optimal model with 14 distinct topics through extensive experimentation, centered around nature, relaxation, shrines, and museum history. The topics indicate various tourist profiles active, gastronomic, leisure-seeking, history-loving, and family-oriented tourists. Knowing about the audience is valuable for targeted marketing strategies. The authors extracted and analyzed subsets of reviews related to Monasteries, Museums, Nature, and Nature Reserves indicating specific preferences of tourists within these categories, such as historical relevance of museums, use of modern technologies in exhibitions, or children-friendly content in nature reserves, and improvement areas, such as condition of roads, control of forest cutting, or garbage disposal management. This research offers clearly defined methodological steps and valuable insights for marketing and tourism development in the Srem region.
Teaching Tourism Marketing in the Post-covid Era: Evaluating the Virtual Adoption Project
Teaching Tourism Marketing in the Post-covid Era: Evaluating the Virtual Adoption Project
(Teaching Tourism Marketing in the Post-covid Era: Evaluating the Virtual Adoption Project)
- Author(s):Brigitta Pecsek
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Tourism, ICT Information and Communications Technologies
- Page Range:313-322
- No. of Pages:10
- Keywords:Teaching tourism marketing; Project-based teaching; Post-covid teaching; Practical experience
- Summary/Abstract:This paper analyses a project called Virtual Adoption, initiated by the Department of Tourism at the Eszterházy Károly Catholic University, Hungary with the aim of offering students to work closely with local SMEs during the COVID-19 pandemic. Marketing students follow a practice-oriented curriculum, however, in that case, they could test their knowledge in real-life situations. The hypothesis was that gathering real-life professional experience during critical times could have a multitude of benefits ranging from course commitment to obtaining better grades. This research combined class observation with a short student survey. It was found that participating students were more committed to the course, gained better marks and the dropout rate decreased to zero. The results of the survey pointed out that the benefit of gaining first-hand experience came on top when asked about motivation and experience related to the project. The findings are in line with the arguments of educational scholars calling for more cooperation between education and industry.
Comparative Analysis of Tourism Safety and Security Indicators – Bulgaria and Neighbouring Countries
Comparative Analysis of Tourism Safety and Security Indicators – Bulgaria and Neighbouring Countries
(Comparative Analysis of Tourism Safety and Security Indicators – Bulgaria and Neighbouring Countries)
- Author(s):Petya Ivanova
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Tourism
- Page Range:323-333
- No. of Pages:12
- Keywords:Tourism safety; Destination; Comparative analysis; Regional differences; Indicators
- Summary/Abstract:This research aims to study, analyze and evaluate the degree of security and safety of the following destinations: Bulgaria, Serbia, Romania, North Macedonia and Turkey. The methodology includes a combination of research methods such as desk research, content analysis, comparative method, etc. The analytical part is based on publicly available, officially published data of established methodology of the World Economic Forum. The conclusions are mainly in two directions: first, indicators according to which Bulgaria is in strong and weak positions compared to neighbouring countries, and second, the positions of the studied countries in the interrelationship of the travel and tourism development index – security and safety. The originality of this chapter lies in the comparison between the countries and delineating the similarities in the region and the differences of the individual countries as safe destinations. It can be used for future analyses of the quality of the destination tourism supply. This chapter can influence and encourage other future comparisons ranging from the assessment of regional differences in various aspects of tourism development to the multifaceted perspectives of ensuring security and safety.
Legal Aspects of Consumer Protection in the Promotion of Tourist Services
Legal Aspects of Consumer Protection in the Promotion of Tourist Services
(Legal Aspects of Consumer Protection in the Promotion of Tourist Services)
- Author(s):Aleksandra Stanković, Milena Cvjetković, Milovan Cvjetković
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Civil Law, Tourism
- Page Range:335-347
- No. of Pages:14
- Keywords:Consumer protection; Promotional means; Customer satisfaction; Tourist services
- Summary/Abstract:With the research presented in the study, the authors aimed to show the impact of consumer protection from a legal perspective on the promotion and satisfaction of users of tourist services. The research sample included 294 users of tourism services. The correlation analysis showed statistically significant values and indicated a significant relationship between the variables of consumer protection from a legal point of view and the variables of promotion and user satisfaction. The regression model showed that the variables of access to services and the safety of service users had the greatest individual contribution to user satisfaction. The research showed that there are statistically significant correlation values of agreement with the analyzed variables when it comes to consumers' ability to allocate funds for tourist services. The mentioned research has shown the variables whose improvement can increase the satisfaction of the users of tourist services.
Intellectual Capital in Hospitality: A Panel Data Regression on Hotel Brand Financial Performance
Intellectual Capital in Hospitality: A Panel Data Regression on Hotel Brand Financial Performance
(Intellectual Capital in Hospitality: A Panel Data Regression on Hotel Brand Financial Performance)
- Author(s):Goran Pavlović, Miloš Stojanović, Marija Nikolić Tosović
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Tourism
- Page Range:349-364
- No. of Pages:16
- Keywords:Intellectual capital; Brand; Hotels; Financial performance; Competitive advantage
- Summary/Abstract:This research aims to examine the impact of intellectual capital on the financial performance of the hotel brand. Beyond human and structural capital, the study underscores the significance of relational capital in fortifying a hotel brand. Consequently, strategic investments in diverse intangible assets within the hotel industry are posited to enhance brand value, thereby elevating financial performance. The empirical analysis, encompassing 29 hotels in the Republic of Serbia from 2018 to 2022, through panel data regression, illuminates a statistically significant and positive correlation between intellectual capital and brand financial performance. This correlation underscores the tangible impact of intellectual capital and other non-material assets, such as brand, on the hotel financial performance.
Evaluation of the Potential Consequences of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Exacerbation of Corporate Crises within the Hotel Industry in the Touristic Region Banska Bystrica in Slovakia
Evaluation of the Potential Consequences of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Exacerbation of Corporate Crises within the Hotel Industry in the Touristic Region Banska Bystrica in Slovakia
(Evaluation of the Potential Consequences of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Exacerbation of Corporate Crises within the Hotel Industry in the Touristic Region Banska Bystrica in Slovakia)
- Author(s):Renata Stanley, Renata Pakšiova
- Language:English
- Subject(s):Economy, Tourism
- Page Range:365-378
- No. of Pages:14
- Keywords:Companies in crises; Financial analysis; COVID-19; Financial indicators
- Summary/Abstract:This chapter aims to examine the companies in crisis operating in the hotel industry in the Banska Bystrica Region in Slovakia, which have encountered financial difficulties and the possible consequences of the pandemic COVID-19 on their financial situation. For the research of companies in crisis, there were data obtained from a publicly available online state resource for the monitored period of 2018-2020. The hotel, hospitality and tourism industries are generally considered to be the most significant¬ly affected by COVID-19. Many companies had their operations temporarily closed and some were unable to reopen. Several companies in this sector have thus fallen into crisis. Companies in crisis refer to those that are in bankruptcy or at risk of bankruptcy. To identify companies in crisis, the authors conducted a financial analysis of the financial statements of selected companies, which are presented in this chapter.