Element Analysis And Recommendations For Improving The Development Of Rural Tourism On The Territory Of Herzegovina

The paper researches rural tourism in Herzegovina, the current state as well as incentive and limiting elements of development. The basic objectives of the research are to identify key elements regarding the concept of development of rural tourism as part of the overall tourism supply. Herzegovina has natural and social appeal which can be developed into a special, interesting, acceptable, competitive and sustainable rural tourism product. The non-existent or inconsistent legislation is a limiting element in the development of this type of tourism in the concerned area. On the other hand, the rising demand for this form of holiday, results in a raw and, in terms of personnel, a completely unprepared supply by owners of rural accommodation units. The paper uses secondary data as a starting point, giving an insight into the actual situation of rural tourism in Herzegovina. With the purpose to research the main elements influencing the development of rural tourism, a survey was carried out on the territory of three cantons in Herzegovina. The aim was to gain insight into the current status of rural tourism potential, so as to make proposals for the development of the existing resources and creation of new tourism products in order to improve the supply.