ANALYSIS OF OPINIONS AND ATTITUDES OF LOCAL COMMUNITIES AND TOURISTS ON THE QUALITY OF TOURISM SUPPLY AT THE VRANICA MOUNTAIN

Abstract

Bosnia and Herzegovina was a symbol of winter tourism in the former Yugoslavia, and it still has a significant tourism potential due to its rich natural and cultural heritage, advantageous of geographical position and proximity to the emissive tourist markets. Mountain Vranica is a popular tourist destination that provides many opportunities for the development of various forms of tourism throughout the whole year. Vranica includes central parts of Bosnia and Herzegovina and belongs to the area of the Central Dinarides, as a part of so called Vranica rayon. The variety and attractiveness of the geological structure, relief, hydrological phenomena, flora and fauna, as well as the attractiveness of the landscape, are the primary factors for the development of tourism in this area. However, despite the significant tourism potential, tourism is insufficiently recognized in this area. The aim of this paper is to determine the characteristics of tourism trends, the impact of tourism development on the local community, as well as differences in the perception of tourist motives of Vranica by the local community and tourists. The research is based on an analysis of the results of direct surveys conducted during 2016 at multiple locations on Vranica, on a sample of 210 tourists and residents (106 local residents and 104 tourists). The survey included respondents older than 18 years and statistical analysis was conducted in SPSS. Its results can be used for better identification of visitors’ profile, and as a starting point in conception of tourist supply of higher quality in the future, with greater integration of local communities and residents’ opinion in the process of tourism planning of this area.