RURAL TOURISM IN THE SMOLENSK REGION: MODERN PORTRAITOF A SERVICE CONSUMER

Abstract

The paper considers the features of a modern portrait of a consumer of rural tourism services in the Smolensk region. The research task is solved by conducting a survey to study the opinions of residents of the Smolensk region regarding the relevance of rural tourism services in the region. By analyzing the survey materials, we determine the needs and priorities of potential tourists choosing a holiday destination in rural areas; opportunities for the development of rural tourism in the Smolensk region, including by systematizing the factors hindering its development in the region, are outlined. As a result, a considerable amount of data from sociological surveys is summarized and proposals for the implementation of optimal forms of tourism development in rural areas are formulated. The paper is addressed to teachers of higher educational institutions, graduate students, undergraduates, students and professionals working in the field of tourism.