Improvement of the relationship between environment and tourism: case study of the national park Djerdap in Serbia

Abstract

The relationship between the environment and tourism can be perceived from several different aspects. The concept of sustainability and its principles are one of the most frequently analysed approaches and the motivational basis for visiting can show how much the protected nature and healthy environment matter to the tourists. Based on the internal motivators, we examined whether the tourism in Derdap is controlled, on a smaller scale, and qualitatively focused. A total of 484 respondents participated in the survey research. The comparison of attitudes was performed in relation to the demographic attributes of the respondents (gender, age, education). Target getups of tourists who prefer sustainable tourism have been identified. Sustainable tourism is a significant determinant in the further development of tourism in the protected area National Park Derdap. The results of the research, based on 12 statements, performed t-testing and one-factor variance analysis (ANOVA), show that the visitors 'greatest interests are related to the environment (natural as well as cultural value of the area). The researched motivational factors (new experiences and events, relaxation and rest, acquiring new knowledge - cultural and educational motivation) are based on sustainability. The results of this research can be applied in practice by implementing them through various management and marketing plans in the National Park Derdap.