Sustainable Rural Tourism Opportunities

Tülen Saner^[1]*, Fikret Idrisov, Nesrim Menemenci Bahcelerli

¹Near East University, School of Tourism and Hotel Management, Lefkosa, 98010 North Cyprus

² Near East University, School of Tourism and Hotel Management,  Lefkosa, 98010, North Cyprus

Abstract

The importance of rural tourism has been widely recognized as an important factor in the development of rural areas. Rural tourism brings economic and social benefits to the rural areas thus supporting new markets for local products and services. The main aim of this research is to examine the strategies and opportunities for sustainable rural tourism.  Research reviewed of the concepts of rural tourism has been made and highlights aspects of rural tourism development. This research draws on the literature which explores benefits, the new trends and opportunities in rural tourism. The most important principles for sustainable rural tourism should be kept within the carrying capacity of a rural area so that its natural features are not damaged in tourism activities and facilities.

Keywords; Rural, rural tourism, sustainable, local products, opportunities.

* Corresponding author. Tel.:+9-0392-223-6464; fax:+9-0392-223-6461.

E-mail address: tulen.saner@neu.edu.tr