Mass tourism versus small form tourism case study: Perspective for the development of small form tourism in the municipality of Surcin

Abstract

The phenomenon of mass tourism development in recent years has undergone certain transformations, in particular, with the appearance of small forms of tourism, having significant prospects for development in the future. Although mass tourism development has represented, for a long time, a successful example of the concept of development of various tourist destinations around the world, in time, it was getting more exposed to criticism. Numerous authors and tourism scholars emphasize negative impact of mass tourism, whereas World Tourism Organization's forecast is in favor of reducing the mass as opposed to small forms of tourism. The small forms of tourism are primarily characterized by individual tours or traveling within small groups, usually consisting of educated, experienced and responsible participants with greater purchasing power when compared to typical tourists, participants of mass tourism. This case study entails prospects for the development of small forms of tourism in Surčin, the youngest of seventeen Belgrade municipalities. Due to its favorable traffic and tourist position, natural resources, cultural heritage and built infrastructure, in recent years, Surčin has become more attractive for individuals and small groups of tourists, positioning itself as a tourist destination for excursions in the market capital. This paper investigated the possibilities for tourism development of small forms of tourism based on the natural environment, cultural heritage, events; adventure, sport and recreation; authentic offer and local tradition as well as the parts of a short city break tour and cruising programs in the area of the Surčin municipality.