THE COUNTRYSIDE THROUGH THE EYES OF TOURISTS AND NEW RESIDENTS
A.V. Merzlov1, N.V. Vorontsova2, Yu.V. Timofeenko3, M.A. Strakhova4
1Russian State Agrarian University - Timiryazev Agricultural Academy, Moscow, Russia
2Federal State Budgetary Educational Institution of Higher Education Russian Biotechnological University, Moscow, Russia
3Southern Federal University, Rostov-on-Don, Russia
4Penza State University, Penza, Russia
Keywords: rural tourism, ruralization, gastronomy, traditions, local products, new rural residents, tourists, sociological research, respondents, small (rural) areas
Abstract
The greatest opportunity to enhance quality of life lies in maximizing the potential of rural areas for recreational use and as new residential locations. This research identifies the main motives and factors influencing tourists and new rural residents when selecting places to relax or live. Nature, the absence of city noise, rural heritage and culture, and the availability of locally sourced, healthy foods were found to be the primary factors of small rural areas’ attractiveness. The study also highlights that further development of local gastronomy would enhance these areas’ appeal. Respondents believe that increasing tourist flow to rural regions-which they predict will rise annually-will contribute to the socio-economic development of the countryside. The study was conducted using empirical methods, including sociological surveys and semi-structured interviews during the 11th expedition of the Association of the Most Beautiful Villages and Towns of Russia, Reviving the Love for Rural Russia. The expedition took place in the Russian North from October 2 to 13, 2023, with support from the student expedition competition “Rediscovering Russia" (www.openrussia.rsv.ru) and the Vologda Oblast administration.
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