Development of Ruse Region as a destination for apitourism

Abstract

In addition to the development of traditional types of tourism on a global scale, we are constantly observing the increasingly rapid development of alternative (modern) types of tourism, including bee tourism. In recent years, a dynamic development of bee tourism has been observed in several countries, such as Poland, Germany, the Czech Republic, Lithuania, Ukraine, but Slovenia is the leader in this type of tourism. Bulgaria also has good opportunities for the development of this type of tourism, despite the difficulties and problems that accompany it. The country has unique features that must be exploited. From this point of view, it is necessary to use good practices and their application in Bulgaria. Of course, this should not be done mechanically, but should be developed mainly in the areas where there are data for this. One of these regions in Bulgaria is the Ruse region. Beekeeping in the Ruse region provides very good opportunities for the development of apitourism (or bee tourism), as well as related rural, wellness, cultural, culinary and other types of tourism. They offer opportunities for the direct sale of bee products, accompanied by additional beekeeping services that increase the complexity and added value of its products. Beekeeping tourism is a source for the creation of local markets, green economies, sustainable development, employment and an important tool in the fight against unemployment at the sectoral and regional level. There is an opportunity to ensure better competitiveness and profitability of the Ruse region, positioning it as a tourist destination for apitourism and related rural, wine, wellness, cultural, culinary and other types of tourism. The development of apitourism is important, including for overcoming the seasonality of tourism both in Bulgaria and in the Ruse region.