INCREASING THE TOURISM DESTINATION COMPETITIVENESS OF THRACIAN REGION: SUGGESTIONS FOR DEVELOPING AND PROMOTING BUYUKCEKMECE AND IGNEADA

Abstract

Rural tourism in Turkey has not received the interest it deserves compared to European countries. Theoretical studies along with appliedprojects are needed to increasethe awareness and draw interest to this important tourism area among populace and decision makers. Thelack of extensive studies in Turkey creates an important research gap. To address this gap and improve the competitiveness of Turkey as arural tourism destination, various applications that can improve awareness and attract interest are proposed in this study. BüyükçekmeceLake and İğneada Flood plain Forests were chosen as the application areas that have natural resources and unique historical heritagehowever lack amenities and relevant marketing activities to create interest. In this study both the destination competitiveness theories andworldwide applied best practices were analyzed. In this way a comparative analysis was carried out to assess and improve the rural tourismpotential of these regions. Following the analysis, educational activities, agro/eco-tourism activities, touristic facilitiesthat can beconstructed within the legal framework are proposed in detail. Establishment of a rural marketplace, development of nearby residentialareas offeringaccommodation, food and commerce for visitors together with a tourism center were recommended asconstituents of a comprehensive rural tourism model.