Tourism Development in Romania

This case study examines the tourism industry in Romania. It investigates various aspects like its historical background, key attractions (including Sighişoara), infrastructure development, and sustainability concerns. The analysis also considers the country's efforts to promote tourism, drawing comparisons with successful examples like Yorkshire, UK.

Department of Travel and Tourism Travel and Tourism Destination
Travel and Tourism Destination
Student ID: 14379
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Department of Travel and Tourism Travel and Tourism Destination
Travel and Tourism Destination
Student ID: 14379
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Department of Travel and Tourism Travel and Tourism Destination
Table of Content
TASK 1………………………………………………………………………………………………...
4
1.1 – Identify and analyse an overseas destination and compare with your UK
destination………………………………………………………………………………………........ 4
1.2 – Trends of both tourist destinations………………………………………………………
6
TASK 2…………………………………………………………………………………………….......7
2.1 – Cultural, social, physical features for the UK destination…………………………….7
2.2 – Compare cultural, social and physical features of the UK destination with the
chosen destination
overseas………………………………………………………………………...............8
TASK 3…………………………………………………………………………………………………9
3.1 – Investigate and analyse the political and economic characteristics for both
destinations…………………………………………………………………………………………..10
3.2 – Critically evaluate how the cultural, social, economic, physical and political
characteristics of the UK destination affect its appeal to
tourists………………………………..10
TASK 4……………………………………………………………………………………………….11
4.1 – Identify three issues that may affect the popularity of the UK destination; compare
with overseas destination…………………………………………………………………………11
4.2 – Critically discuss how UK could sustain its appeal as a
destination………………….12
CONCLUSION…………………………………………………………………………………...13
REFERENCES…………………………………………………………………………………14
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1 Classification of cultural heritage…………………………………………………………7
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Department of Travel and Tourism Travel and Tourism Destination
Task 1.1
I decide to compare York and Sighisoara
The following assignment will look into comparison of two cities – Sighisoara and York.
SIGHISOARA
Sighisoara is one of the magnificent and most preserved town of Europe. It was founded by
Transylvania Saxons in the 12th century.
Vlad Tepes, the ruler of Wallachia was born in Sighisoara which ruled from 1456 to 1462.
UNESCO also selected this city as a world heritage site, which dwells gems of 16th century,
nine tower, common houses, paved street and old churches.
With the passing time, the city has been expanding and getting better and stronger. The
towers are the best visiting places for tourist. Along with this massive structures and towers
have been built to protect from the attacks.
Getting to Sighisoara is fairly easy, you have a lot of opportunities travelling by plane, trains,
buses and the prices are fairly acceptable. One can even travel by cars as it is located on
the E60 European road which is nearer to the city.
The Historical state of Transylvania is situated in the heart of Romanian, Sighisoara it’s a
touristic place, a little bit crowded in the summer, but who is worth it to visit anytime. You can
explore in an afternoon without any problem. The old town has roughly 3 main streets.
Prince Charles has visited the town several times and stayed there being very impressed.
The beautiful houses and the buildings colourful painted, cobbled streets and friendly people
it’s impossible to not fall in love with Sighisoara. (www.romaniatourstore.com)
YORK
One of the most important city in England, “York has a rich, visible and accessible heritage
of medieval, Georgian and Victorian history” (www.dailymail.co.uk, David Cawley, Travel
Mail)
The city has been situated at the blending point of river Ouse and Foss. The streets pattern
of the city is taken and upgraded from the Roman, Viking and medieval times. Moreover, a
complete touch of medieval wall can be found in the heart of city.(www.visityork.org)
York is considered by the tourist’s one of the most tranquil counties in Britain and offers
beautiful villages, castles and monasteries.
Closer of that is some England’s most dramatic costal scenery, “sprinkled” with holiday’s
resorts and beaches of Filey, Bridlington.
In one word, “There’s so much to do in York, you won’t know which way to turn!”(David
Cawley, Travel Mail)
SIGHISOARA YORK
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Department of Travel and Tourism Travel and Tourism Destination
Points Of Attractions
 Tailors Towers
 Dracula House
 Locksmiths Tower
 Weapon Museums
 Rope makers Tower
 Butchers Tower
 Cooper Tower
 Town Hall
 Jewellers Tower
Points Of Attractions
 Jorvik Viking Centre
 York Dungeon
 Next Generation Club
 York Art Gallery
 York Castle Museum
 The National Railway Museum
 Yorkshire Film Archive
 The Bar Convent
 National Centre for Early Music
 York Racecourse
 Water world
By looking into the top, we can conclude the main attractions in both cities are historical
places and the reason why tourists visit both cities.
Accommodation Accommodation
 Plenty options for lodging and eating
 Cheap hotels
 Boutique hotels
 Private guests houses
Regarding restaurants, there is a diversity of
traditional cuisine and international, offering some
of the best cuisine and wines from Transylvania
area.
Prices are between 20 Euro/night/person to 45-47
Euro/night/person
A variety of:
 Flats
 Houses
 Bed and Breakfast
 Lofts
 Villas
 Condominium
Prices are between £17 to
£280/night/person
The following table demonstrates the accommodation choice in both cities. In York, we have
varied choice, as well as visitors spend more, whereas the accommodation choice in
Sighisoara is not as varied and there is a clear need to improve the accommodation sector.
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Department of Travel and Tourism Travel and Tourism Destination
Key statistics on Sighisoara Tourism Key statistics on York Tourism
 In 2014, there was a total of 408843 number of
tourists, with 14009 (3.5%) more tourists
comparing to 2013.
 International visitors in registered
Accommodation have increased by 9,5%
compared to its previous year
 Length of stay on average is 2,1 nights / tourist
 17,9% of visitors are overseas
 Out of 73297, 28923 (39, 5%) had the
preference of destination Sighisoara.
(www.mures.insse.ro)
 Every year 4,09 million visitors come to the
destination (2007 estim)
 Tourism sector spent £364 million each ye
(2007 estim)
 10,646 jobs in York created by tourism (20
estim)
 50.6% bed occupancy 2007, 64,2% room
occupancy
 Overseas visitors are 15% of overall
market(around a quarter of these from Nor
America)
 80% of visitors are attracted towards revis
destination as per data of 2007-2008.
 Over 1.3 million delegates attending event
in York
(www.visityork.or
As a conclusion, from the information given above, we can understand why tourists prefer
different destinations where they have a variety of offers and conditions, while tourists are
attracted to spend in the places with more entertainment. For the example, the figures
shown above demonstrate that York is more attractive to tourists and one of the reasons for
being so is the range of facilities and services that result in more spending.
Task 1.2
Future trends in Sighisoara and York
In both cities, Sighisoara and York, the government are involved in developing a business
plan at the moment and they already established a set of priorities which will help tourism to
grow with 5%:
 Leisure and business tourism marketing – creating a better image as a European
Tourism city of the Year.
 Business engagement – creating events, talking to investors, promoting historic
buildings on different websites, in different languages
 Making video-interviews/video collages promoting the both cities
 Promoting positive opportunities for spending free time
 Working with partners to influence visitors with good offers, to spend more time and
more money, staying longer
 Emphasis is laid on upgrading the public spaces and raising the quality visitors
experience.
 Partnership with bushinesses can provide a better platform to enhance the skills of
employees and create better employment.
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Department of Travel and Tourism Travel and Tourism Destination
(www.visityork.org)
(www.romaniatourstore.com)
TASK 2
Task 2.1.
As per detailed study, development of European tourism sector is dependent upon the
quality of services that is being offered to customers. It is also necessary to consider
experience of tourist. However, Europe is referred as famous destination in the world.
Travellers are more attracted towards services due to incredible architecture and amazing
testimony. Unique tradition and skills also need to be referred so that objectives can be
accomplished (Stănciulescu and Lee, 2011).
UNESCO report indicates that the classification of heritage can be accomplished in seven
elements. Classification can be as heritage, nature, landscape, monuments, artefacts,
activity, people and locations. By having effective promotion of diverse cultural and heritage
aspects the development of tourism sector can be completed.
(www.interchopen.com)
Objects that belong to tangible culture heritage have been enlisted below:
 It consists of famous memorial structures which includes inscriptions, the old
paintings, sculptures, monuments which are admired by people and have a great
importance from the artistry point of view.
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Department of Travel and Tourism Travel and Tourism Destination
 Some of the old structures, buildings and edifices also have a worldwide acceptance.
Along with it, changing situation of landscape is eye capturing.
 Places also belong to tangible cultural heritage. It includes nature and diversity of
humans and territories and ancient locations which posses universal acceptance
from the perspective of social science, philosophy and history.
Tangible Cultural heritage constitutes of musical organisation, some known places. Fine
arts, structures and traditional buildings. The isolated buildings of musical organisation also
associates with its landscape. These are relevant points which helps in analysing the the
pertinence of cultural heritage.
York is a perfect holiday destination for couples, families and friends. It takes just 2 hours by
train from London. People who are historic lovers can roam through the cobbled streets of
York. This city has a combination of ancients and modern touch. It is a thriving city, famous
for its exquisite buildings. Visitors are attracted by the romantic environment and the fun
activities.
The city has ample of famous destinations for its visitors. These are:
 The famous Clifford Tower was built by the William. It dictates the power of medieval
kings of England. The famous tower was created to trim rebel from north.
 The city is also renowned by the most impressive church.
 Some of the engrossing archaeological and geological collections of Europe are also
found in the Yorkshire museum.
 Over the past 300 years of rail records can be found in the National Railway
museum.
 York's has been the one of the most famous destinations which uncovers multitude
of surprising secrets and facts.
The culture and tradition of York is very different from that of other country. It has ample of
festivals going throughout the calender year. It is colourful and a multifaceted city. Comedy
and entertainment are the two thing that can be found over the city. In summers, the great
Yorkshire is occupied by the peoples and is the key to entertainment by bringing best in
comedy, festivals and musics. Along with that York's Joseph Rowntree is a part of live
entertainment, hosting productions of movies and musical shows conducted by talented
locals in a stunning huge art monument. Another spectacular and beautiful landscape is the
Yorkshire Dales. It has around more than 60000 people living and working in it. Though
tourism has grown to much extent but Farming is the living source of income for the people.
Many of the festivals and customs have been originated from the agriculture sector.
Further, when the farmers enclosed the open wells for the farm animal, the field became
barren and gradually the landscape of Dales became dry. (www.yorkshirenet.co.uk)
Task 2.2.
SIGHISOARA
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Department of Travel and Tourism Travel and Tourism Destination
Located in Transylvania, getting to Sighisoara is fairly easy. By train or by bus the
destination is easy reachable, Sighisoara being located on the E60, European road.
Moreover, the closest airports are named as Sibiu, Cluj-Napoca and Tirgu-Mures that also
attracts travellers to visit city. Prices of transportation facilities is also affordable that
improves opportunity. (www.romaniatourstore.com)
According to detailed study, Romania is considered as one of famous destination that means
city is having better opportunities in the market. Sighisoara has number of options available
that can be used to have lodging and eating services. It also enhances the convenience and
attract more and more customers. Further medical and other services are also well
standardised that allows to have better experience during visit.
The accommodation can be classified in both forms cheap as well as boutique hotels. Along
with this, there are number of private guest house and luxurious hotels that also provides
support to accommodation services.
Regarding restaurants and bars, there are also plenty available: traditional and international
cuisine, and wines what Transylvania has to offer. (Camarda, 2007)
The Romanian government intends to allocate 1777 M Ron, for railway infrastructure
projects. Statics is presented as per consideration of 2016 proposed state budget. The
routes that will be improved are:
 Sighisoara – Coslariu –Simeria (542 M Ron)
 Gurosada – Simeria (348 M Ron)
 Brasov – Sighisoara (887 M Ron)
The budget allocation for transport infrastructure projects will be supplemented by
mechanism already agreed with the Ministry of Finance, depending on the progress of the
word. (www.think-railways.com)
In our case, Sighisoara and York are very similar in their heritage, both of them are historical
centres with the old architecture and traditional life. Each summer, if it happened to visit York
or Sighisoara during the Medieval Fair, you can take part of fire-breathers, jugglers, knights,
craftsman making the destination more appropriate for the tourism opportunities. There are
number of other factors that attracts the tourist towards city. It has also been noticed that the
traditional aspects need to be maintained so that better opportunities can be attained.
Medical services must be in such manner that the proper support can be provided to
customers.
TASK 3
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Department of Travel and Tourism Travel and Tourism Destination
York Sighisoara
Economic:
 UK is a well-developed country
 The government supports tourism
development
 The rate of unemployment is low
 The hospitality and tourism of York brings a
contribution to the UK economy which is 7%
 Many people are employed in the tourism
and hospitality industry but the labour
productivities the lowest in England.
(www.nationalarchives.gov.uk)
Political:
 UK has a democratic government
 There is no corruption
 From political point of view is stable, there
are laws, regulations and a legal framework
well done.
Economic:
 It is a country with a less developed
economy but in the last five years it has
improved a lot
 The government is more involved in
developing travel and tourism
 There is a low job opportunities and the
employees need more training in this
sector
 The economy of this city depends on
visitors spending
 The inflation rate in Sighisoara in 2015 was
-0,6%
(http://www.insse.ro)
Political:
 Democratic government in Romania
 The government invests into tourism
especially promotions of Sighisoara
 Corruption is still high and the government
is still fighting against this
 The lack of legislation requiring the owners
to rehabilitate buildings
(www.planificarestrategica.wordpress.com)
Task 3.1.
The following table will analyse the political and economic characteristics of York and
Sighisoara.
Conclusion:
Both destinations have a potential for a further growth of tourism in particular Sighisoara that
might use tourism to improve economic situations.
Task 3.2.
The question B will evaluate the cultural, economic, physical, political and social
characteristics of York and its appeal to visitors:
York
Cultural Very appealing to tourist because of the
historical heritage, traditional life, old
architecture, etc.
Designation as a UNESCO City of Media Arts
Economic Economically stronger with a number of 1000
new jobs a year
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Department of Travel and Tourism Travel and Tourism Destination
Tourists are spending more money each year
(£364 million/year)
Physical A major area for regeneration to the rear of York
Railway Station
Create a high quality development and build on
the vitality of the city centre
According to York council, they went to create a
transport network with surrounding places
Create roads to connect with the small location
from neighbourhood
Political -the local government provide assistance to
number of projects that enhances the
technological use so that tourism related
activities can be accomplished effectively.
-reducing risk and uncertainty for investors
-the decisions and actions that are taken into
account to make sure that the implementation of
activities is in appropriate manner. These
framework need to be followed by
organizations.
-the local authority takes an active role in
tourism development
Social JORVICK on Tour,
Fossgate Festival and Micklegate Run
Soapbox Challenge
(www.mecon.nomadit.co.uk)
Some of the events offered by York are Fossgate Festival and Micklegate Run Soapbox. By being a
tourist destination, visitors have a good appeal for York.
CONCLUSION:
By examining the above characteristics, we can conclude that York has a very good appeal to tourists
as it offers a range of facilities, services, and attractions. The local government is also supporting
tourism development
Task 4.1.
The following task will identify 3 issues facing York and Sighisoara:
Issues York Sighisoara
Crime Some tourist attractions might
experience pickpocketing or
petty crime. It will have direct
negative impact on the belief
Negative image about the
minority population
Visitors might be subject to
small crime.
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Department of Travel and Tourism Travel and Tourism Destination
of customers which may
influence overall development.
Public Transport Well-developed public
transportation
Congestion and traffic
Well-developed public
transportation
Weather condition may affect
public transport
Congestion and traffic. It will
create an inconvenience for
travel which is not beneficial
for sustainable development.
Weather The weather can affect the
popularity of York
Flooding
Landslides can affect access
to Sighisoara
Unfavourable weather
conditions, such as snow, can
create in traffic
Flooding in the spring time
CONCLUSION:
We might conclude that both cities share similar issues that face tourist destination. Weather
cannot be changed, but both cities can improve crime levels, and public transportation.
Task 4.2.
“The impacts that tourism creates locally do not just result from hotels and transportation –
but from tourists themselves and how they act and behave. For this reason it is significant to
make sure that the tourists are having involvement in the process of thinking so that level of
experience can be improved. It allows to have positive impact on the holiday policies and
assist in meeting objectives(www.responsibletravel.com)
By having consideration of sustainable tourism the UK can present itself as a key contributor
in tourism sector. It allows to protect environmental aspects, local cultures and natural
resources. It will also provide assistance to community development and ensure that the
designation is being developed according to tourism standards.
National authorities and local communities are working together to make tourism more
sustainable.
There are number of methods that can be adopted by tourism sector in order to have
sustainable development of activities. It is necessary to develop activities that may cut down
the negative impact on natural resources and other aspects that may promote tourism
opportunities.
In hospitality, the hotels are using sustainable principals as:
 Energy saving - spending for low energy bulbs and energy efficient A rated
 Eco-friendly developments- using biomass boilers and solar panels to provide our hot
water and heating needs with planning and grant funding
 Promotion of diverse businesses is also signifiant to have effective development of
sustainable tourism.
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Department of Travel and Tourism Travel and Tourism Destination
 Eco-laundry room - the hot water washing machine use the surplus heated water
stored in the boiler room
 Consuming ECOVER (range of green products), washing up liquid, dishwasher
tablets –only to avoid the pollution of the water
 Providing for hotels eco- toiletries products – do not contain parabens or artificial
colours
In respect to public transportation, it is signifiant to develop system that enhances the tourist
morale to use travel options that preserve nature. For example, use of bikes, biogas buses,
eco friendly boats, etc. Doing this we will reduce the pollution and traffic congestion.
National authorities and local communities are working together to make tourism more
sustainable. At this point, there is a greater involvement of the local community by:
 Presenting visitors how to be in charge with guided walks, signs, leaflets, information
centres etc.
 Support outdoor activities that don t damage the countryside or harm wildlife
 Encourage tourists to buy and taste local products and food
 Supporting communities to build resilience and adapt to the changing of weather
 Asking local communities for their views and ideas by setting up groups, consultation
 Creating more green spaces i.e. more parks and planting more trees, maintaining
bio-diversity and wildlife habitats etc.
 Developing more agriculture and farming, UK population will be tempted to eat more
bio products, to buy local products more natural, to spend more time in nature so this
will contribute directly to the growth of UK s economy.
CONCLUSION
Ecotourism is considered as one of most signifiant aspect, it provides an opportunity to
explore the native culture and nature that are present at the destination. Few of people refer
it as a self reflection that inspire them because of beauty present in the surroundings.
According to Kiper (2011), “preserve and utilize natural and cultural resources in a
sustainable way and to enable economic development of local people. However, achieving
the aims in ecotourism depends on whether they are environmentally and ecologically
sustainable and economically applicable. In order to achieve these, a participative tourism
planning is required”.
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The Travel Foundation. "Natural resources"
http://www.thetravelfoundation.org.uk/projects/themes/protecting_natural_resources. The
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