Parallel Sessions

Romanian Academy

27th International Conference

29-31 May 2025

Vatra Dornei

Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development

Parallel Sessions I

Session 1

Thursday, 29 May

12:15 PM - 1:30 PM (Bucharest Time)

National Agency for Mountain Areas - ANZM

Mountain Amphitheater

Language: English

Chair: TBA

Connect online

Akmaljon ODILOV, Assistant Professor & Head of Department of Tourism Management, Faculty of Tourism Management, "Silk Road" International University of Tourism and Cultural Heritage, Samarkand, Uzbekistan

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Uzbekistan as a Hub for Tourism and Hospitality in Central Asia

Uzbekistan has emerged as a significant hub for tourism and hospitality within Central Asia, leveraging its rich cultural heritage, strategic location, and proactive government initiatives. The paper explores Uzbekistan's transformation into a premier destination for travelers seeking authentic experiences in the heart of the Silk Road. The historical cities of Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva serve as focal points, showcasing exquisite examples of Islamic architecture and providing insights into the region's ancient trade routes. Uzbekistan's commitment to preserving its architectural treasures, coupled with investments in infrastructure and transportation, has facilitated accessibility to these cultural gems. Moreover, the Uzbek government's efforts to streamline visa procedures and promote tourism have attracted a growing number of international visitors. Initiatives aimed at enhancing hospitality services and expanding accommodation options cater to diverse traveler preferences, from luxury seekers to backpackers. Beyond its architectural splendors, Uzbekistan's cultural vibrancy, traditional cuisine, and warm hospitality captivate visitors, offering immersive experiences that transcend mere sightseeing. As a result, Uzbekistan is increasingly recognized as a hub for travelers seeking authentic encounters and meaningful exploration in the heart of Central Asia. The paper underscores Uzbekistan's evolving role as a tourism and hospitality hub, highlighting the country's immense potential to further elevate its profile and contribute to the region's socio-economic development through sustainable tourism practices.

Minodora MANU, Senior Researcher, Institute of Biology, Romanian Academy, Bucharest, Romania
Raluca Ioana BĂNCILĂ, Senior Researcher, "Emil Racoviţă" Institute of Speleology, Romanian Academy, Bucharest, Romania
Owen MOUNTFORD, Senior Researcher, Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Maclean Building, Benson Lane, Crowmarsh Gifford, Wallingford, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
Teodor MARUȘCA, Senior Researcher, Grassland Research and Development Institute, Braşov, Romania
Adrian Vasile BLAJ, Senior Researcher, Grassland Research and Development Institute, Braşov, Romania
Marilena ONETE, Senior Researcher, Institute of Biology, Romanian Academy, Bucharest, Romania

Soil Mite Fauna as Bioindicator of Management Type of Praticolous Ecosystems from Bucegi Mountains, Romania

This study demonstrates the importance of knowing the ecology of the mite communities, as important tools for environment assessment. Permanent grasslands represent 33% of the total utilized agricultural area in Europe and 18.90% in Romania. Grasslands are among the most species-rich habitats in Europe. The mountain grasslands of Romania are very important from ecological and pastoral points of view. They are characterized by many species of plants and animals that often have an ecological plasticity. Scientific studied demonstrated that maintaining functionally diverse invertebrate communities in grasslands may have positive effects on ecosystem functionality. Soil mites (Acari, Mesostigmata) are one of the most abundant invertebrates groups. Most species are predators. About 11,000 species have been identified in the world. In soil, they participate indirectly in the decomposition process, feeding mainly on decomposer invertebrates with soft bodies (e.g. springtails, nematodes, larvae of insects or oribatids). They are considering valuable bioindicators, recording a spatial variability that change over time and influenced by climatic conditions. Biotic and abiotic factors exert regulatory effects on their populations. Many researchers studied the influence of grazing intensity, fertilization and different abiotic factors on the Mesostigmata communities. Other studied investigated the structure, seasonal and vertical distribution of the mite populations from different types of grasslands. In Romania, studies on Mesostigmata mites have been focused on qualitative and quantitative data or on the influence of heavy metal pollution and other climatic factors on their communities. None of these studies took into consideration chemical and organically fertilised experimental grasslands and their relationship with Mesostigmata fauna. Considering all these aspects, we proposed to investigate some ecological aspects (including the dispersion rate) of soil mite fauna from five experimental grasslands, in correlation with abiotic factors (vegetation cover, soil temperature, soil moisture content, pH, soil resistance at penetration). In July 2017, 250 soil samples were analyzed, revealing the presence of 30 species, with 1163 individuals. Using modern statistical analysis, we observed that each experimental plot was defined by characteristically environmental conditions, vegetation cover, soil moisture content and soil temperature differing significantly among the experimental grasslands. Each experimental plot was characterized by the specific indicator species and population parameters (numerical abundance and species richness). The effect of these soil variables was demonstrated even at species level. Analysing the dispersal rates of mite communities between the plots (based on species frequency), we demonstrated that between the experimental grasslands dominated by the accessory and accidental species, the mobility of these invertebrate communities was higher.

Oscar RODRIGUEZ, PhD Candidate, Tourism and Marketing Research Centre, University of Greenwich, London, United Kingdom

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Implications of Smart Tourism in Planning and Developing Protected Areas

Determining the implications of smart tourism on protected areas is crucial for the future of sustainable tourism. Smart tourism is now well established from a variety of scholarly studies devoted to smart tourism cities. However, the contribution of smart tourism has received little attention within protected areas. This highlights the need for a conceptual perspective to explore how smart tourism technology enhances visitor experiences, facilitates sustainable tourism development, and addresses challenges unique to protected areas. Taking a conceptual perspective, this study investigates both the opportunities and challenges associated with implementing smart tourism technology in protected areas. Drawing on the critical discourse theory of smart tourism ecosystems, this study set out to investigate the usefulness of smart tourism planning and development strategies, particularly in protected areas where preserving cultural and natural heritage is paramount. Traditional tourism development has had a negative impact on the biodiversity of protected areas. It involves the construction of infrastructure disrupting wildlife and their habitats. Consequently, a major problem with traditional tourism development is the loss of natural ecosystem integrity and the fragmentation of wildlife habitats. The research methodology employed in this study is an integrative literature review approach. By critically assessing and synthesising existing literature, this method aims to advance knowledge in theoretical frameworks and perspectives related to ecosystems in protected areas. In the context of natural and cultural heritage, this study contributes to the current discussion on smart tourism planning development in protected areas.

Cristina Emanuela DASCĂLU, Associate Professor, Apollonia University, Iași, Romania // Associate Professor, Danubius University, Galați, Romania

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Rural Wellbeing Tourism: Adaptable Solutions for Preserving Local Specificity and Promoting Sustainable Socio-Economic Growth in Romania

A number of concepts, including sustainability, happiness, health, and well-being, have come under rigorous scrutiny from a variety of stakeholders, including service providers and policymakers. The increase of infectious diseases and pandemics, loss of natural resources and ecosystems, and the slow decay of healthy social relationships, the impact that Covid has had and is still having on humanity, all point out to the fact that more than ever we need to find refuge in rural wellbeing tourism which is both a personal escape from daily stress and inconveniences, and at a bigger scale a way to develop disadvantaged rural areas in Romania, as well as anywhere in the world. By fusing regional ecological food, farm animals, breathtaking scenery, art, and religious experiences, wellness tourism in rural areas—particularly in Romania—can provide a singular experience. Rural tourism in Romania has been identified as a significant driver for the development of disadvantaged areas, offering a means to capitalize on resources and promote local culture. Since the nation's 1990 shift to a market economy, rural tourism—including agro-tourism, which meets visitors' demands with regionally produced goods—has grown. By focusing on the concept of "rural wellbeing tourism," Romania can tap into its potential to create competitive tourism products, similar to successful models in Nordic countries, Mediterranean countries, United States and Canada. This approach can provide tourists with a holistic experience that encompasses wellness, local culture, and the unspoiled natural beauty of rural Romania.

Parallel Sessions II

Session 4

Thursday, 29 May

4:00 PM - 7:30 PM (Bucharest Time)

National Agency for Mountain Areas - ANZM

Mountain Amphitheater

Language: English

Chair: TBA

Connect online

Walter WYMER, Professor, Dhillon School of Business, University of Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada

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Strategic Brand Management Planning for Location Tourism

The goal of brand management is to make the brand stronger. The same holds true for managing a location as a brand to attract and retain tourism. This conceptual paper will discuss attracting and retaining tourism from a strategic brand management perspective. The desired outcomes are to attract priority tourists and to deepen their commitment to the brand as a tourist destination. Deepening tourists' commitment to the location brand includes: (1) increasing length of stays, return visits, and amount spent during visits; and (2) providing favorable word-of-mouth referrals within social networks and on social media.

Samuel Uwem UMOH, Assistant Professor, University of Hradec Králové, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
Sarah Mohlago RAMAHLO, Student, University of South Africa, Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa
Elizabeth Adetola UMOH, PhD Student, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain

Sustainable Tourism Development and Governance: From the Lens of Africa's Travel Indaba in South Africa

Tourism governance plays an essential role as the rules and mechanisms for developing policies and business strategies that incorporate key organizations and individuals" in tourist destinations such as South Africa. The importance of tourism in South Africa is echoed in the 2030 National Development Plan (NDP) as one of the key drivers of employment, economic growth, and one of the six core pillars of growth in the country's New Growth Path (NGP) framework. Drawing from Travel Indaba (an annual 3-day tourism event that showcases South Africa's tourism products/services), the paper presents the case study of South Africa, analyses South Africa's tourism policy and strategy with particular attention to tourism development, tourism Sector Recovery plan and tourism governance strategies. It discusses how more collaborative engagement, responsiveness, representation, and inclusion for sustainable tourism may be achieved through tourism governance. Data was generated from South Africa's tourism policy analysis, the Portfolio Committee on Tourism in the National Assembly of South Africa, site visits to Travel Indaba, and interviews with diverse stakeholders (officials of the South Africa Tourism Promotion Agency, exhibitors, tourism business owners/managers). The paper found that locals and communities were involved in South Africa's local tourism governance and development through Africa's Travel Indaba, which showcases the variety of South Africa's tourism products and attracts international buyers-sellers and media worldwide. The event gives tourism exhibitors the best stage to present their products. Tourism Indaba is one of the attractions of the international tourism calendar in South Africa from local and foreign guests from outside South Africa as one of the largest and most pertinent tourism trade exhibitions on the African continent. The terms "Africa's" and "Travel" were appended to the name "Indaba" in order to establish its identity as a pan-African tourist event and reputable standing in the international tourism sector, South African tourism is broad and encompasses a variety of industries with facilitators and regulators of tourism destination competitiveness that collaborate with several government agencies to expand and revamp the industry and economy and bilateral to strengthen regional cooperation. Most stakeholders were satisfied with the governing agencies' responses, indicating a collaborative decision-making process with ample opportunity for listening to them. However, some addressed worries about poor employment representation, their opinions needing to be heard, and involvement in decision-making processes. These point to the necessity of improving decision-making, representation, and collaborative engagement.

Liliana VELEA, Senior Researcher, National Meteorological Administration, Bucharest, Romania
Roxana BOJARIU, Senior Researcher, National Meteorological Administration, Bucharest, Romania
Zenaida CHIȚU, Researcher, National Meteorological Administration, Bucharest, Romania
Anișoara IRIMESCU, Senior Researcher, National Meteorological Administration, Bucharest, Romania

Climate Information for Climate Action in Romanian Rural Tourism

Rural tourism is gaining an increasing interest from both tourists and investors, being one of the fastest growing type of tourism in Romania. A large range of motivations are at the basis of tourists' choice for rural destinations and among them nature, landscape, and outdoor activities held a large weight. This makes tourism vulnerable to climate changes through the direct effect of changes in the attractivity of climate conditions, in addition to the indirect effects due to the expected impacts on other associated socio-economic sectors. In this context, increasing rural tourism resilience to climate changes is a complex issue which needs to takes into account adaptation measures focusing on tourism specifics in synergy with adaptation measures in related sectors (e.g., energy, land and water management, urbanization aspects). Expected impacts, vulnerability and resilience of tourism to climate changes are research issues more and more addressed in the recent years and their assessment at national or even local scales becomes increasingly important for designing effective adaptation measures. The proposed study aims to present a summary of current knowledge related to the impact of climate changes on tourism and in particular on rural tourism in Romania. Also, a synthesis of the available climate information tailored for tourism sector in Romania is presented, focusing on actionable information that may be employed to reduce the negative effects of climate changes on Romanian rural tourism.

Deepak JAISWAL, Assistant Professor, Faculty of Commerce, Department of Management, Siddharth University, Kapilvastu, Siddharth Nagar, Uttar Pradesh, India

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Augmenting Spiritual Tourism and Indigenous Livelihoods and Entrepreneurship: A Study with Special Reference to Buddhist Circuit in India

The spiritual heritage of India is garnering significant attention, particularly in relation to Buddhism, which offers rich opportunities for spiritual and sustainable tourism. Spiritual and ecotourism represent niche segments within the Indian tourism industry. Buddhist tourism is flourishing in Asia, notably in India, Nepal, South Korea, and Thailand, serving as a form of religious tourism that deeply influences the social, political, and cultural landscape of these countries. Within this context, the Buddha Circuit holds immense potential for sustainable tourism development in India. The Buddha Circuit traces the footsteps of the Buddha from Lumbini to Kapilvastu, Sarnath, and Kushinagar, encompassing renowned heritage, spiritual, and religious centers such as Bodhgaya, known for practices like Dhyan and Vipassana. However, destinations like Kapilvastu and Lumbini have not received adequate attention from stakeholders compared to Sarnath and Bodhgaya, resulting in limited exploration by foreign and domestic tourists in the realm of sustainable tourism. Therefore, there is a pressing need to promote the Buddhist Circuit by enhancing indigenous spiritual tourism management, which can serve as a principal source of local livelihoods and contribute to sustainability through heritage preservation and eco-friendly practices. The primary objective of this proposed project is to bolster the promotion of the Buddhist Circuit while maintaining a balance between spiritual and ecotourism, and fostering indigenous livelihoods for sustainable development in eastern Uttar Pradesh, with a focus on the Siddharth Nagar district. This paper aims to act as a catalyst in promoting sustainable tourism opportunities by empowering local tourism communities, such as the establishment of Small Tourism Help Groups (STHGs), and supporting cognitive and research centers like Dhyan (Vipassana Kendra) across various sites of the Buddha Circuit. Ultimately, this initiative can contribute to the development of indigenous spiritual tourism and the advancement of local livelihoods, entrepreneurship, and aligning with the UNDP's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly through sustainable transportation initiatives.

Lindsey Elizabeth PASHOW, Agricultural Business Development and Marketing Specialist, Harvest New York, Cornell Cooperative Extension, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America
Victoria GIARRATANO, Assistant Director, Food Systems and Innovation, Cornell Cooperative Extension, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, United States of America

Developing Agritourism Economic Sustainability through New York's Taste New York Program

Economic sustainability is important for the survival of farms, especially with the diversification of farms into agritourism. However, just having an agritourism operation provides a unique educational opportunity, and value-added products does not guarantee survival for a farm. It is important to look at the unique advertising and marketing opportunities that can be developed to highlight an agritourism operation but also the agritourism industry. New York has developed a unique advertising and marketing program called Taste New York, that specifically focuses on helping farmers develop economic sustainability. This program was created over 10 years, with collaborations between Cornell University Cooperative Extension program, New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, and Empires State Development/I Love NY. The Taste New York program showcases farms, agritourism operations and their value-added products at a variety of outlets across the state through stores, welcome centers, events, and trails. Since its launch in 2013, the Taste New York program has grown significantly, bringing over $100 million in economic impact to New York State agricultural producers. During the session, we will highlight how the program was developed, collaboration through a variety of agritourism stakeholders, marketing technics, and a variety of events that has led to economic sustainability for agritourism operations in New York. We will highlight some of the different farms that have increased revenue through the Taste New York programming, including Jadda Hill Farm which has seen a 3000% increase in sales by participating in the program. Taste New York program has created economic sustainability for many farms and agritourism operations throughout the state.

Amila INDIKA, Senior Lecturer, University College of Ratmalana, University of Vocational Technology, Ratmalana, Colombo, Western Province, Sri Lanka

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Reasons for Higher Level of Tourists' Satisfaction on Ayurveda Health Resorts in Sri Lanka

Ayurveda health tourism can be considered as one of the key special interest tourism subsets of Sri Lanka, with potential for further development of tourism towards meaningful encounters beyond the dominant mass tourism beach model. The island has considerable number of Ayurveda health resorts and main properties are ranked often, at the levels of "very good" or "excellent" in Trip Advisor indication higher level of tourists' satisfaction. And there are increased level of repeat visitors and expectations to make revisit to the resort is high as well. Reasons for this phenomenon can be observed as a grey area in tourism research of Sri Lanka. This research intends to recognize reasons for higher level of tourists' satisfaction on Ayurveda Health Resorts in Sri Lanka. Qualitative thematic analysis on Trip Advisor reviews of tourists on five selected Ayurveda health resorts were used for data analysis. Sample was 125 reviews representing 25 reviews on each property. A thematic map was developed and seven main themes and eighteen sub-themes were found. High quality staff, perfect service, delicious and healthy food, superb treatments, resort facilities, relaxing atmosphere and great view, and positive yoga experience were identified as reasons for the higher level of tourists' satisfaction.

Tribhuvan NATH, Assistant Professor, Institute of Management Studies, Rajiv Gandhi South Campus, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India
Vimal Chandra VERMA, Assistant Professor, Faculty of Commerce, Siddharth University, Kapilvastu, Siddharth Nagar, Uttar Pradesh, India

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Harvesting Agritourism Opportunities through High-Tech Agriculture and Knowledge Transfer: Evidence from a Case Study in India

Agritourism has emerged as a novel agricultural pursuit for innovative farmers in emerging economies. These progressive farmers are advancing agriculture and farming through innovation and by adopting high-tech farming practices as a promising strategy to increase crop productivity and profitability. The study aims to illustrate entrepreneurial opportunities in agritourism through high-tech agriculture and knowledge transfer to visitors in the Indian context. The case study provides evidence and insights into agritourism opportunities through a high-tech farm led by an agri-tech entrepreneur known as the "magician of agriculture" in the country. This high-tech farm has demonstrated one of the highest levels of crop productivity for many horticultural crops in the country, producing top-quality farm produce that leads to improved market access and profitable returns. Each year, this high-tech farm attracts thousands of farmers and other visitors, including foreigners, seeking to explore and acquire knowledge about advanced agricultural practices, thus creating opportunities for agritourism. Overall, this case study reveals that agritourism in emerging economies like India provides a win-win situation for both the agri-tech entrepreneur and visiting farmers, as well as other visitors. Agritourism can strengthen the rural economy by providing farmers with additional income and leveraging local resources to their fullest potential. Important facts and strategic insights emerging from the analysis of this case study are discussed along with their policy implications.

Pratibha PANDEY, Researcher, Faculty of Commerce, Siddharth University, Kapilvastu, Siddharth Nagar, Uttar Pradesh, India
Vimal Chandra VERMA, Assistant Professor, Faculty of Commerce, Siddharth University, Kapilvastu, Siddharth Nagar, Uttar Pradesh, India

A Qualitative Analysis of Elderly Consumers' Perception towards Health Tourism in India

This qualitative research paper investigates the perceptions of elderly consumers regarding health tourism in India. Health tourism, a very rapidly growing industry globally, has achieved significant position in India due to advanced medical facilities, cost-effectiveness, and diverse cultural experiences. However, while existing literature has explored various aspects of health tourism, there remains a vast gap in understanding how elderly consumers perceive and engage with phenomenon of health tourism. In this research semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis were used. This study aims to uncover the perspectives of elderly individuals towards health tourism in India. The research explores factors influencing their decision-making process, such as perceived quality of medical services, trust in healthcare professionals, affordability, accessibility, cultural considerations, and emotional well-being. Furthermore, the study investigates the role of information sources, including word-of-mouth, online platforms, and healthcare intermediaries, in shaping elderly consumers' perceptions and decision-making regarding health tourism. By understanding the unique needs, concerns, and motivations of elderly consumers, this research contributes to enhancing the effectiveness of health tourism strategies tailored towards this demographic segment. Findings from this study have implications for healthcare providers, policymakers, and tourism stakeholders, facilitating the development of targeted marketing strategies, improved service offerings, and policy interventions aimed at enhancing the overall health tourism experience for elderly consumers. This research aims to provide valuable insights into how health tourism can better cater to the needs of elderly individuals, contributing to the sustainable growth of this industry in India.

Neerja NIGAM, Associate Professor, Department of Management studies, Technocrats Institute of Technology, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India
Manish NIGAM, Business Head, Labservis Consumer, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India

A Study on Impact of Pandemic on Indian Tourism and Sustainable Measures for Its Recovery

The recent Covid-19 pandemic affected all businesses and industries. The tourism industry is one of the severely impacted segments. This research paper examines the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on Indian tourism. The paper discusses various pandemic factors that have affected the tourism industry, such as travel restrictions, economic changes, and the challenges faced by tourism-dependent communities and markets. Furthermore, the paper explores the steps and measures adopted by the Indian Government and the Indian tourism industry to minimize the crisis and adapt to the new normal environment, including digital transformations, sustainable tourism practices, and improvising health and safety protocols. After analyzing the impact and adaptation, the paper discusses the role of governments, international organizations, and other stakeholders in facilitating the recovery of the tourism industry. By analyzing the impact, adaptation, and recovery processes, this paper provides insights into building a more resilient and sustainable tourism industry in the face of future pandemics and crises.

Vimal Chandra VERMA, Assistant Professor, Faculty of Commerce, Siddharth University, Kapilvastu, Siddharth Nagar, Uttar Pradesh, India

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Exploring the Flavors of India: A Review of Gastronomic Tourism

Travelers are increasingly looking for genuine culinary experiences while on their travels, which has led to the emergence of a significant trend in the travel industry worldwide: gastronomic tourism, also known as culinary tourism or food tourism. India, a country well-known for its wide range of culinary traditions and cuisine, is now a major force in the gastronomic tourism market. This study attempts to investigate the tastes of India by reviewing gastronomic tourism in its entirety and concentrating on its development, main forces, effects, difficulties, and prospects in the Indian context. The diverse range of flavors, spices, and cooking methods found in India's cuisine are woven together to create a tapestry that reflects the nation's cultural heritage. Global foodies are drawn to each region's unique culinary identity, which ranges from the spicy curries of Kerala to the fragrant biryanis of Hyderabad. For those who enjoy a wide variety of culinary experiences, this diversity encompasses street food treats, classic home-cooked meals, and haute cuisine establishments. The hospitality sector, governmental organizations, food entrepreneurs, and local communities all have a significant influence on how gastronomic tourism develops in India as the country maintains its status as a top culinary destination. With an emphasis on strategies for sustainable growth and development in this dynamic sector, this review seeks to critically examine these aspects and provide insights into the opportunities and challenges related to gastronomic tourism in India.

Cristina Emanuela DASCĂLU, Associate Professor, Apollonia University, Iași, Romania // Associate Professor, Danubius University, Galați, Romania
Mariana Gabriela DASCĂLU, Teacher, "Petru Poni" Tehnological High School, Roman, Romania

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EU Policies, Opportunities and Challenges in Tourism and What They Mean for Romania

The European Union (EU) has recognized the significance of tourism in its policies, aiming to reduce regional disparities and enhance territorial cohesion. The EU's focus on sustainable tourism development aligns with its broader goals of economic and social recovery, especially in the aftermath of crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. EU countries have implemented financial policies to support the tourism industry during challenging times, emphasizing support for SMEs, sustainable employment, and liquidity assistance. Additionally, the EU has been increasingly emphasizing social tourism as a means to achieve sustainable development, particularly for vulnerable groups like children, seniors, and low-income families. By integrating tourism into its policies, the EU aims to leverage the sector's potential for economic growth, regional development, and social inclusion. Tourism plays a significant role in the EU and Romania, impacting economic, social, and cultural aspects. In the EU, tourism contributes over 5% of GDP and provides millions of jobs. Romania, aiming for sustainable development, focuses on utilizing its cultural heritage and promoting multilingualism in tourism to enhance economic value. However, challenges persist, such as a large informal economy affecting sectors like tourism, with over 20% of accommodation services in Romania being sold informally. Additionally, the geographical concentration of tourism activities in Romania leads to disparities between regions, highlighting the need for differentiated tourism policies based on the type of territory. To improve quality, Romanian tourism entrepreneurs in regions like Dobrogea should prioritize service enhancement and diversification, aiming to satisfy customers and compete nationally and internationally. Additionally, the mountain area's hotel industry can leverage quality management to enhance tourist satisfaction, emphasizing the importance of socio-cultural progress and nature proximity. By implementing quality strategies, sustainability measures, and aligning with EU policies, Romania can elevate its tourism sector's competitiveness and attractiveness. Overall, tourism in the EU and Romania is a multifaceted sector with both opportunities and challenges that require strategic approaches for sustainable growth and development.

Cristina Emanuela DASCĂLU, Associate Professor, Apollonia University, Iași, Romania // Associate Professor, Danubius University, Galați, Romania
Iulian Eugen DANALACHE, Teacher & School Administrator, "Octav Băncilă" National College of Art, Iași, Romania

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Romanian "tochitura" (Aka "Traditional Romanian Pork-based Stew") Case Study, Culinary Trails, Rural Gastronomy and Cultural Cuisine Heritage

Agriculture, food and tourism is combined into offering tourist products in rural areas. The development of local activities combining traditional food and tourism becomes an investment for the future with both the concept of sustainable gastronomy and agriculture sustainability, and helps in the development of local entrepreneurship in rural areas. The European Union has introduced provisions for the protection of traditional and regional food that can be used to create a variety of tourist products. Currently, tourists are looking for unique local products. More and more people travel because of culinary motifs, and local products, dishes and local processors can become an attraction in these places. This paper presents the idea of "The Best 'Tochitura' in Moldova". The rapid development of culinary tourism means that tourists are looking for offers in this area. There are many cooking-related products available in the tourism market, one of which is the culinary trail. Food becomes one of the advantages of places where tourism related to the culture of the region develops. Based on cultural heritage, a variety of tourist products can be created, e.g., culinary trails combining agriculture and food produced in this area with tourism. The culinary trail is just one of the many cooking-related items accessible in the tourism sector. One benefit of locations where tourism centered around the local culture grows is food. Cultural heritage can be used to develop a range of tourism offerings, such as culinary trails that combine local food and agriculture with travel.

Minodora MANU, Senior Researcher, Institute of Biology, Romanian Academy, Bucharest, Romania
Raluca Ioana BĂNCILĂ, Senior Researcher, "Emil Racoviţă" Institute of Speleology, Romanian Academy, Bucharest, Romania
Owen MOUNTFORD, Senior Researcher, Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Maclean Building, Benson Lane, Crowmarsh Gifford, Wallingford, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom
Teodor MARUȘCA, Senior Researcher, Grassland Research and Development Institute, Braşov, Romania
Adrian Vasile BLAJ, Senior Researcher, Grassland Research and Development Institute, Braşov, Romania
Marilena ONETE, Senior Researcher, Institute of Biology, Romanian Academy, Bucharest, Romania