Examining Rural Tourism and Guesthouse Development in Rugova, Kosovo

Abstract

This project examined rural tourism development in Kosovo, focusing on the Rugova region. Rural tourism has gained growing attention as a promising approach to reduce poverty, diversify rural economies, promote sustainability, and improve the well-being of marginalized communities. Rugova was chosen for its potential and since it exemplifies a context of rural environment, economy and history through its remote location, distinct and cultural heritage and economic struggles considering that its population is among the most impoverished in the country. he main goal of this paper was to extract all the key factors required to turn Rugova into a successful rural tourism spot. The methodology of this project is qualitative and based in primary data obtained from the examination of three rural tourism locations in Kosovo (Rugova, Novobërdë and Kaçanik), and secondary data that examined the international, national, and local context of this sector and analyzed developments in nearby countries that are in a more advanced stage of rural tourism development such as Albania, Cyprus and Romania. The case study examinations reveal a number of opportunities for Rugova as an emerging rural tourism destination, which could be actualized through a collaborative effort between public institutions, international organizations and local communities and a number of policy changes. To transform Rugova into a mature rural tourism destination, it is recommended that a national rural tourism association is established which would greatly benefit the rural tourism activity in Kosovo in terms of marketing, offer diversification, and long-term sustainability.