ASPECTS OF RURAL TOURISM IN ROMANIA THROUGH THE LENS OF LEGISLATIVE CHANGES IN RECENT YEARS

Abstract

Due to its characteristics, rural tourism can represent an important factor of development at the level of a national economy by the fact that: it creates jobs, highlights local traditions, forgotten folk crafts, gastronomic customs, living habits and local culture.

Rural tourism is also a real chance for the revitalization of Romania's economy, given that there are still many rural settlements and communities that preserve their local specificity, traditions, customs. 

This form of tourism has the ability to attract tourists throughout the year, not being subject to the effect of seasonality, offering authentic experiences in a unique natural and traditional setting. With a well-organized tourism infrastructure and the international promotion of rural beauties and traditions, rural tourism can become a central pillar of the national economy, supporting the sustainable development of local communities.

The legislative changes in the field of tourism in general and rural tourism, in particular, aimed to support the development of rural tourism in Romania, facilitating access to financing for small entrepreneurs, simplifying authorization processes and providing support measures in the context of the pandemic. A priority within the current legislation is the emphasis on sustainability and the preservation of local traditions, in order to promote sustainable and attractive rural tourism for both Romanian and foreign tourists.