THE IMPORTANCE OF ECONOMIC AND NON-ECONOMIC FUNCTIONS OF ALTERNATIVE FORMS OF TOURISM IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE HILLY-MOUNTAINʹS AREAS

Abstract

In this paper our attention is focused on alternative forms of tourism and the importance of their economic and non-economic functions in the development of the hilly-mountainous areas. When it comes to economic functions and their role in the development of these areas, the impact of tourism on the local economy is expressed in the growth of consumption of goods produced for domestic and foreign tourists; and the impact of tourism on employment is indicated. The impact of tourism to the revitalization of underdeveloped areas and various aspects relevant for development are also included in this research. In recent years a need to further research of all non-economic features of tourism and its impact on the development of tourist destinations increased, too. Therefore, in this case we will also analyze and summarize educational, health, intercultural and political development aspects of tourism and their possible positive or negative impact on socio-cultural development of small rural settlements in the hilly-mountainous areas.