Conducted survey "Management of the Lika destination: Preservation, sustainability, tourism and culture"
The Lika Destination cluster recently conducted a survey with the aim of gaining insight into the views of local residents on destination management. The survey was published on November 8, 2023 and attracted the attention of 15 residents of Lik until November 14. It was conducted through a Google form, and it was promoted on the Cluster's social networks (Facebook and Instagram) under the title "Lika destination management: Preservation, sustainability, tourism and culture".
The aim of the survey was to investigate various aspects of Lika destination management, with an emphasis on:
- Nature conservation
- Sustainability of the destination
- The impact of tourism
- Preservation of culture
The questions were carefully selected to cover different aspects of life in the destination, and the answers were anonymous to encourage honesty.
The results of this survey provide valuable insight into the attitudes of the local population of the Lika destination regarding tourism and will serve as guidelines for further development of the destination.
Below we present the results of the survey.
The majority of survey participants belong to the age group of 35-44 years, with the majority of respondents from the town of Gospić.
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Visiting tourist attractions
According to the results, 80% of respondents occasionally visit tourist attractions, while 13.3% regularly or rarely participate in tourist activities.
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The importance of aspects of tourism
The importance of different aspects of tourism varies, with 40% of respondents emphasizing environmental protection as the most important aspect, while 26.7% focus on economic development. Cultural heritage and contribution to the community were also recognized with support of 20% and 13.3%.
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Awareness of sustainability
Respondents show an awareness of sustainability, but 73.3% believe that the local population only partially understands the concepts of sustainable development. This suggests the need for additional education and information to raise awareness in the community.
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The impact of tourism on the local economy
The majority of respondents (80%) perceive tourism as a positive factor for the local economy, emphasizing the economic benefits that tourism brings.
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Assessment of efforts in sustainable tourism
Assessments of the destination's efforts in sustainable tourism vary, with 73.3% of respondents considering the efforts satisfactory, while 33.4% express dissatisfaction.
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Support from the destination
The participants of the survey present key proposals for support from the destination, including the organization of fairs, exhibitions, educations and presentations of artists and craftsmen to the general public. Also, the importance of promoting local products as a means of preserving the authenticity of the destination is emphasized.
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The impact of tourism on the environment
The results indicate a satisfactory situation in the opinion of the respondents regarding the impact of tourism on the environment in the destination of Lika.
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Disadvantages of the tourist offer
Respondents point out shortcomings in the tourist offer, stressing the need to enrich gastronomic and cultural experiences and to organize more fairs, events and workshops involving local residents and visitors.
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Awareness of national measures and policies related to cultural tourism
Only 66.7% of respondents are partially familiar with national measures and policies related to cultural tourism.
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Preservation of cultural heritage
Respondents express partial satisfaction (73.3%) with the preservation of cultural heritage, while 26.7% are dissatisfied.
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Preventing the impact of tourism on cultural heritage
Through the question about preventing the negative impact of tourism on cultural heritage, the most common answers include the setting of clear rules, the organization of controlled visits accompanied by local guides, and a stronger connection between tourism and cultural heritage.
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Compensation for damage from tourism
The majority of respondents recognize financial compensation, protection against vandalism and installation of waste containers as the most effective ways of compensating for damage that can occur from tourism.
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Monitoring the impact of cultural tourism
The participants suggest additional education of visitors, control of the number of visitors and warnings about appropriate behavior when visiting as ways to improve the monitoring of the impact of cultural tourism on cultural heritage.
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Suggestions for improving tourism
Respondents emphasize the need for intensified marketing, a focus on local traditions, the encouragement of diverse cultural and artistic content, and the strengthening of sustainable management, including circular waste management. The improvement of content intended for children and the enrichment of cultural events are additionally recognized as key